Postage stamps -- even better if you order from Zazzle and put a photo on it.
Playing cards -- either large ones if they have difficulty seeing or add a photo to the back
Paparazzi Jewelry -- $5 each and there are long necklaces that go over the head, stretch rings, stretch bracelets and clip on earrings. For the person who has everything, they have lanyards if they have to wear a name badge to work in both male and female styles!
Event tickets -- Even if it's a homemade event ticket to your child's dance recital, include a certificate to take them out to eat afterwards.
Your Own Diner's Club -- Invite them over to dinner once a month for the year
Jar of Memories -- Take 365 slips of paper and write about a memory you have with them. They can choose one each day for a year to read.
Replace something they need. When visiting, if you see something that could use replaced (such as a toaster that burns more than it toasts) make a note and get them a new toaster as a gift. Or go extravagant such as this toaster that cooks an egg while you make toast.
Keep an ear open as to what they might want but can't find. Some people don't use the Internet and so a favorite childhood book might be next to impossible for them to find. One year someone mentioned when we were having lunch she wanted a pot strainer. When she received her gift (paired with some pasta and olive oil), she exclaimed it was just what she wanted!

Groceries. As long as you are aware of what brands they buy, get them a
box of groceries. Or get them a gift card and tape it to a box of their favorite cereal.
A photo calendar. Pets, family photos, memories, children's artwork are all great ideas to add to a calendar.
A dry erase board with a family photo feature on it.
Make a DVD of family photos set to music.
A photo blanket.
Comfort grip pens, especially if they have problems with their hands, these super sized ones would be great. Makes bill paying easier.
No tie shoelaces
Oxo kitchen supplies -- these have a better grip than a lot of other similar items and are even called "good grips" , and are nice for any age.
Large display alarm clock
Easy Relase ice cube trays
A jar opener
Pill reminder alarm clock
Upgrade a common item to a luxury item. For instance, upgrade their pillow to a feather pillow or a memory foam pillow.
A kindle. The fact you can change font sizes on this makes it an ideal gift to the elderly. Plus you can explore the free download books (most classic books also download for free).
Car safety hammer (this would actually be a great stocking stuffer for every adult on your list!)

rechargeable flashlights that turn into night lights when the electric goes out
an electric pencil sharpener
Spices only stay good for so long, so update their spices.
A year's supply of ______ (trash bags, toilet paper, laundry detergent, etc)
Forehead thermometer
surge protector with USB chargers and electrical outlets
First Aid Kit
For several Christmases, my husband has made photo calendars for my parents. Always a big hit!
ReplyDeleteMy 92 year old MIL loves the blanket we got her from http://www.americanblanketcompany.com/ - the Luster Loft style is so warm, soft & luxurious.
ReplyDeleteThese are all wonderful ideas. Thank you
ReplyDeleteGreat ideas! Never thought of the no-tie shoe laces - my MIL (age 86) would love those!
ReplyDeleteI have a pair myself. They are also great for those who like to workout, etc because they can't come untied! I just like them because I hate tying shoes! lol
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ReplyDelete