Senior Living: Thoughtful gifts are always appreciated

There are two kinds of people. Those who are ready for Christmas by noon on Black Friday, and those who are not.

This column won't be of much use to those who have their lights up, holiday decorations artfully placed throughout the house, Christmas cards addressed, stamped and ready to mail, and last but not least, presents wrapped and under the tree or already dropped off at the post office. Keep reading if you still have shopping to do.

It's easy to shop for kids who make detailed Christmas lists and teenagers who love gift cards and electronic gadgets. It gets harder as people grow older. We hear a lot of wives complain that their husband just goes out and purchases what they want (or think they need) without regard to timing of a special occasion such as a birthday or Christmas. Husbands are perplexed when their wife seems like a professional shopper whose bargain hunting skills can't be matched.

Seniors may be the most difficult to shop for at Christmastime. After all, seniors have lived through many Christmases. Selecting gifts that can be appreciated can be a daunting task. Dietary restrictions or physical limitations may make the gift inappropriate or just awkwardly received.

People value gifts differently. Some believe a gift is the thing that represents a thoughtful expression of love — taking the time to select the right item and spending hard-earned money. Others would like the gift of yourself — giving your time to show your love, rather than giving a thing.

We have some ideas for those who want things, and those who value the gift of your time.

Food items — keep in mind dietary restrictions. Candy, nuts, salty snacks, specialty coffees may be difficult to consume for those who suffer from diabetes, digestive issues, tooth problems, high blood pressure, etc. Instead, give herbal teas, hot cocoa, mints, hard candy or home-baked goods that fit within their dietary restrictions.

Entertainment items — keep in mind physical limitations such as sight and hearing. Give large print books and crossword puzzles, a full spectrum light lamp, a folding lap table or desk, books on CD, or a headphone designed to receive TV broadcasts. Purchase a CD featuring music from their era.

Clothing items — keep in mind mobility limitations. Some shoes with heavy treads can cause trips and falls. Leather soled shoes don't catch on carpeting, buttons, zippers and snaps may be hard to manage for those with arthritis. Look for garments with soft and stretchy fabric in the person's favorite color.

Create your own gift certificate for an event — accompany your loved one to lunch or dinner at a favorite restaurant, a trip to the mall, movies or Turtle Bay Museum.

Give a "Fix-It Ticket" — offer to fix something in their home such as a leaky faucet, crumbling step or wobbly hand rail. Install grab bars, a shower seat in the bathroom and place nonskid strips in the tub or shower. For those who aren't so handy, change the batteries in their smoke detectors and replace burned out light bulbs.