Non-Gift Ideas for Older Adults
If you’ve ever asked your loved ones what gifts they’d like, you’ve probably heard something along the lines of, “You don’t need to get me anything at all.” This can make the gift-giving process a little more challenging, especially if you’re trying to find the perfect gift for the older adults in your life. They may be trying to stay away from adding more clutter to their home. So, instead of sticking with more traditional gifts, why not give them experiences instead?
Go To a Local Attraction or Take a Tour with Them
Seeing local attractions and taking interesting tours is a great way to provide the older adults in your life with a unique and refreshing experience. Sometimes, local attractions can feel a bit “touristy,” but they still offer plenty of opportunities for a fun new adventure. Seek out attractions that your loved ones haven’t been to yet or ones of which they have fond memories. Take tours that reflect their interests, hobbies, or passions.
Take Advantage of Annual Passes
Active older adults may want to spend lots of their free time at just one or two local attractions. An annual pass makes it easy for them to do just that. Museums, zoos, aquariums, and state/national parks often allow individuals to buy annual passes without limitation on the number of visits.
Buy Them Event or Movie Tickets
Are any events coming to the area that your loved ones might want to attend? These can include anything from holiday or annual events to food and arts festivals. Movie lovers will always appreciate the chance to see a new movie or maybe one that’s being re-released on the big screen.
Find a New Subscription They Could Use
There are lots of subscription services out there that make wonderful gifts for older adults. Many of these services can be tailored to run for a specified amount of time or annually. Audiobooks, streaming services, arts and crafts subscription boxes, and food baskets are just some of the many options that you might want to consider.
Help Them Learn New Things with Classes or Online Courses
Community centers, libraries, shops, and restaurants are a good resource for finding classes for older adults. Not only can they learn new skills or cultivate old hobbies, but they can meet new people while doing it. Online courses are available for just about every topic and might be a better alternative for those who need a little more flexibility with their schedule.
Plan a Day Trip or Weekend Getaway
When was the last time that you took a quick trip out of town with your loved ones? A change of scenery, whether for a day or a weekend, is a thoughtful gift idea that’s sure to make for a memorable event.
Let Them Get Pampered
Gift certificates for places like salons and spas are perfect for older adults who could use a little pampering. Most spas have a variety of services, so your loved one can pick and choose from items like massages, pedicures, facials, and more.
Donate in Their Name
A donation in your loved one’s name is a nice way to show that you care about them while also supporting the causes they believe in.
Give Them Your Time
If you’re still struggling to come up with a non-gift idea for an older adult, don’t forget about the value of spending quality time with them. This could involve helping them clean, organize, or tackle some home repairs. Even if you’re not helping around the house, just listening and enjoying their company goes a long way in showing how much you care.
Give the Gift of Planning Ahead
Some people may not want to think about their life-care planning at this time of the year, but perhaps giving them an option to talk through their aging plan with loved ones is just what they need!
Elder Advisory Group’s Smart Aging program is a great way to walk through their aging gracefully goals and helps get everyone in the family on the same page.
Opportunities for non-traditional gifts abound. With just a little time and thought, you’re sure to find the perfect one to put a smile on your loved one’s face.
