Choosing the perfect gift

Cynthia Lopinto Feature Article Leave a comment 1,840 Views

By CYN LoPINTO
Editor-in-chief, gerontologist

For many of us, holiday gift shopping is a stressful situation. You want to give the perfect present, but lack of time and a never-ending “to do” list makes it hard to be creative. It is easier to just fall into the rut of dull gift-giving.

What makes someone victorious at matching the present with the person? Knowing who you are buying for is the key to success. Think about their lifestyle, hobbies and what makes them happy. If you need to shop for somebody you don’t really know, do a little investigative work. By asking a few questions, you many just get that idea you’ve been waiting for.

If this Christmas or Hanukkah puts you in the situation of buying a present for an older friend or relative who is hard to please, don’t worry. We have some ideas to help you become a real “hit” this Holiday season. Many of of these gifts could be given to all ages.

Gifts they’ll remember

Pre-paid phone card
Stationery w/stamps
Charitable contribution in person’s name
Family history scrapbook
Magazine subscription
Newspaper subscription
Netflix subscription
Automobile club membership
Cable TV account
Gasoline credit card
Exercise class or gym membership
Fruit/flowers/gift basket delivery
Locket with special photos
Restaurant gift certificates
Movie theater gift certificates
Online shopping gift certificates
Pre-paid cell phone account
Music lessons
Music CDs or tapes
Old radio shows on audio or video
Grocery store gift certificates
Hobby and craft supplies
Hook-on book lamp for reading
Tickets to an area play or event
Season passes or game tickets to sporting events
Sports clothing of favorite team
Mall or store gift certificates
Cordless telephone or cell phone
Games/puzzles

Gifts for those with special needs

Pre-paid taxicab tickets
Grocery delivery sevice
Bus transit passes
Delivered meals service
Large- print books
Audio books or e-books
Bed tray
Large print calendar
Medicine organizer
Magnifying glass
Hook-up to an emergency alert response system
Adaptive clothing (Velcro fastening, back closing)
Durable medical equipment (for bath, bed or ambulation)

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Cynthia Lopinto

Cyn LoPinto, M.A. is a gerontologist focusing on significant issues affecting older adults and their families. Her areas of interest include lifestyle enrichment, family dynamics, and caregiver support. Cyn has worked in both the recreational and healthcare industries.