My kids only have 1 grandparent still living. Papa is in fairly good health aside from some arthritic issues and a slowly declining memory. He's independent and still gets out and about, does activities with the kids and gets what he wants when he wants it. It can be a challenge to get him something for Christmas that is useful and appreciated. The kids usually make him something, but I usually like to do something a little more tangible. So what do you get the older gentleman (or lady or couple!) who doesn't really "need" anything?
Experiences! Papa loves to get gift certificates for things he can do with the kids. Even though they are teenagers now, they love to go hit a bucket of golf balls, attend concerts at the local theater house or go have dinner on special Papa-grandchild days. Putt-putt golf, bowling, grandparent zoo passes (generally allows 2 grandparents and unlimited grandchildren for cheaper than a family pass) are all welcome ideas. Even if you have a grandparent or older friend who isn't all that active, just a note of committment that you will take them to the kids' school plays, concerts, activities would be a gift of an experience.
Cleaning! Grandma Jo always took care of the cleaning, and since her passing Papa has done a decent job, but I doubt he's ever washed walls! haha Four hours or a day of deep cleaning or lawn work is sure to be appreciated by an older person who takes pride in their home but just can't quite get it done like they used to. It may be something you and your family wish to do, instead of hiring someone. Giving a visit from Stanley Steamer or another carpet cleaning company would also be appreciated, I'm sure, as would detailing the car, an afternoon of seasonal home maintenance or even just cleaning out the gutters.
Pet Care! When my mother was alive, one of her greatest pleasures (outside of her family!) was her kitty. Unfortunately Tinker Bell weighed a lot more than my mom could pick up and wrestle into a carrier, and the cat would not let anyone else near her. What Mom could do was "trap" the cat in the bathroom, where one of us could catch her, crate her and get her to the vet and then back home again. It was such a relief to Mom to be know that Tinker was still able to get medical care. We also have a vet in town who will make house calls for the elderly. Arranging for either a trip to the vet or a visit from the vet would warm the heart of any pet lover.
Food! My kids like to make Papa dessert-type gifts, but he needs to eat "real" food too. It's not hard to make up 10 or 12 homemade frozen meals to stock his freezer. He's learned to cook a few things, but it's always nice to have something different. A homemade "gift card" announcing that you'll bring over a meal or some type of goodie every month or even every week - and then following through - means not only a meal, but also a visit from you, which will mean more than anything.
These are just a few ideas. I'm not sure what I'll do this year. I'm leaning towards filling Papa's freezer with meals, unless he comes up with a "you know what I could really use..." hint in the next few weeks! I'm so grateful that not only do my kids have their Papa but also a few other older folk who love them very much, and it's an honor to be able to do and/or give something they will really use and appreciate at Christmas.
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