Need Gift Advice

I really need some suggestions for Christmas gifts for elderly parents (in-laws). None of the things we used to buy for them seem appropriate anymore, given their lifestyle and physicial limitations. Father-in-law will probably soon be in a wheelchair, due to neurological problems; mother-in-law has diabetes and decreased mobility as well. They're (for now) still living in their home, but don't really want to buy household items that they would just have to pack up when they move to more accessible housing (which they have decided to do.) Their eyesight is not very good, so reading materials are not appropriate; candy is out, due to the diabetes. Just really running out of ideas this year, and was hoping someone could help me out. Thank you very much for any and all suggestions!!

Do they like to eat at resturaunts? Gift cards for their favorite place might be nice. If they are on limited income they might like Gift cards to the place they shop most. Even if they are moving soon they will still need some things, maybe Target gift card along with a nice sweater or whatever they wear the most. Think of what they are doing, wearing, or using when you see them and get them something like that. Good luck with your shopping.

Originally Posted by skpaw Do they like to eat at resturaunts? Gift cards for their favorite place might be nice. If they are on limited income they might like Gift cards to the place they shop most. Even if they are moving soon they will still need some things, maybe Target gift card along with a nice sweater or whatever they wear the most. Think of what they are doing, wearing, or using when you see them and get them something like that. Good luck with your shopping.

Thank you very much, skpaw! Good suggestions - I've really been wracking my brain!

I'm having Moms carpets cleaned for Christmas along with postage stamps, extravagant soap and something home baked. One year I had someone come in to wash her windows and cupboards...she sure appreciated that.

A gift cetificate to have a manicure and pedicure and depending on what you want to spend
you can add more...

My mother is almost 80 and cannot cut her own toenails - she thoroughly enjoys a pedicure and manicure!!!

kt

My daughter has been pretty savvy on gifts which make my life a little easier. You don't have to be elderly to enjoy and appreciate some things to make your life a little easier; I had a hip replacement, so she has found me light weight cleaning tools, a super light broom and one of those long handled dustpans: I'm thoroughly enjoying those newish swiffer mop/dustmops because they don't weigh anything.
Also there are some terrific kitchen gadgets, such as the good grip or OXO stuff. I really enjoy my vegetable peeler and good grip knives. Several things here with good grips and non-slip items. How about good kitchen knives from the restaurant supply, I bought a couple with non-slip handles?
It may well be my new hobby, finding a good, easy to use workable jar opener, got a drawer full; the best so far are the "as seen on TV" openers with pistol grip handles and rubber straps which tighten around the lid.
Also, there are things for the bathroom which are non-slip, safety items.
What about motion detector lights for front and/or back doors? I love mine, they light up when I come home after dark, so I can see to negotiate the front door, not to mention deterring occasional burglars.
A new telephone with a louder ringer?
Scissors with soft handles. One of those magnifying glass things for needlework, they hang around your neck, good for hobby stuff.
Fishing gear? Those clear tackle boxes for storing buttons, notions, small things.
Do they have a limited budget? How about new walking shoes (with the velcro closures)?
How big is your budget? ( Boy, I wish some of my brilliant suggestions fit my own incomplete shopping list!!)

Wow! Thanks to everyone for all those great suggestions! I REALLY appreciate it! Now I have some ideas to work with when my husband and I go shopping this weekend. Thank you so much!

Originally Posted by Maineiac I'm having Moms carpets cleaned for Christmas.

What a great gift idea for the older person.

Warm and cuddly clothing or blankets, books on tape??