Ron Kinder is the President of Home Care Assistance of San Diego

Working in the senior care industry, I’ve had the opportunity to speak with many seniors about what’s on their wish list this year for the holidays. I understand that whether you’re looking for mom and dad, grandma and grandpa, or any other senior loved one, finding the right holiday gift can be a challenge.  You want to give something thoughtful and practical that will put a smile on the recipient’s face, while staying within a certain budget.  Since many seniors already own things that don’t wear out, this year’s top 10 gifts for seniors includes temporary items and activities across all price ranges that friends and clients have noted would be the perfect gifts to create fond memories and simple pleasures.

Health & Fitness

• Under $250 – Resistance Chair®, by VQ ActionCare. This patented, at-home exercise system allows mature adults at any fitness level to perform a wide range of exercises from a safe, seated position to strengthen muscles, improve flexibility and endurance, stave off the effects of common ailments such as arthritis, diabetes and obesity, and accelerate post-op rehabilitation. (Available at www.VQActionCare.com or 877-368-6800)
• Under $100 – Senior yoga, swim or exercise classes. These activities are great for seniors who are mobile and enjoy getting out of the house.  Most 24- Hour Fitness, L.A. Fitness and YMCA locations offer senior-specific classes.

Games

• Under $20 – The New York Times Supersized Book of Sunday Crosswords: 500 Puzzles. Everything is supersized about this book of crossword puzzles, including the print. Available at Amazon.com
• Under $20 – Will Shortz Presents the Little Black Book of Sudoku. Sudoku puzzles are mentally stimulating and entertaining. Available at Amazon.com

Activities

• Under $100 – Tickets for an outing with family or a caregiver.  Think about what the senior is interested in or his/her cherished pastimes, such as going to the zoo or a museum, and purchase gift tickets.
• Under $200 – Passes to a local dinner theater or play.

Loungewear

• Under $50 – Slippers. Toasty toes are a must for seniors.  Look for slippers that that offer warmth, comfort, and durability for inside to outside use.  Check out L.L Bean or Nordstrom for this year’s top picks.
• Under $75 – “Winter Fleece Robe, Zip-front.” A cozy robe is something everyone can use.  The zip-up feature offers extra warmth.  Add a monogram for personalization. Available at L.L. Bean

Sentimental/Personal

• Under $100 – A framed family portrait, taken by professional photographer.
• Priceless – Companionship. The gift of companionship and time spent with your senior loved one is not a gift to be overlooked.  This time can be spent going out to dinner, staying home and cooking, listening to stories, or doing the recipient’s favorite activity together.  If you are not able to spend time with your loved one, consider finding a local senior group or homecare agency that can make sure your senior loved one doesn’t spend the holidays alone.