“It’s the most wonderful time of the year.”
I’ve always thought, “that song must have been written by a man.” I looked it up. It was. Two men, in fact. Edward Pola and George Wyle in 1963. It was first performed and made famous by another man, Andy Williams, the same year.
I love Christmas, but I acknowledge that it isn’t the most wonderful time of the year for many. Busy moms with families and jobs who have to add buying and baking and decorating into the mix of their daily lives can think it less than wonderful. And if they also care in some way for an elder, Christmas can seem overwhelming.
Gift giving for elders can be daunting. For many, their world has shrunk, and they don’t have the hobbies and interests of former years. They also need little, and finding a meaningful gift which will truly bless is difficult.
I’m going to help you reach into your inner Santa with some ideas.
I’m not an expert, but for many years, my coworkers and I made an annual trek to our local discount store with lists and shopping carts. We had about 30 residents to shop for, and we tried to personalize the gifts as much as possible. We had $5 for each person, and that included the gift bags and tissue. Somehow, by Christmas Eve, the bottom of the Christmas tree in each neighbourhood looked resplendent with gift bags for Santa to give our residents. Here are a few of my ideas:
- Lotion and more lotion. Make sure it’s a good quality, as an elder’s skin needs to be protected. The smallest crack can become a wound, so lotion is appreciated.
Warm and cuddly. Elders often have poor circulation. Because of this, they may feel cold when others in the family are sweating. Socks, slippers, cardigan-style sweaters, lap blankets and shawls are often appreciated through the winter.- Make a note. If they can still write, many elders appreciate a notepad and pen or pencil. A small one which can fit in a purse is best.
- Picture it. Capture a shot of your elder cuddling a great-grandchild or holding a new baby. Or by themselves in the garden or other great background. A good picture of themselves is never disdained.
- The gift of time. I could also call this, “the gift of fun.” A coupon for one or several outings can bring so much pleasure. Time together at a coffee shop, or out for lunch, a drive to look at the Christmas lights or exploring a small town or a tea room–all of these adventures could bring a glow of pleasure. One of the favourite outings our residents enjoyed was a trip to a garden centre. As many run year-round, they need to attract customers at all times of year, and the beautiful Christmas displays bring joy. Another popular outing was lunch at a historic restaurant. Residents drove by bus through streets which had been familiar to them, and dressed in their finery to eat where they had probably danced as youth. The experience brought back memories and made new ones.
- A treat to eat. For elders who live in the community, a home-made meal of something delicious and easy to eat would be so welcome.
- The gift of memories. What about sitting with a photo album and reminiscing about Christmases past, or summer vacations or other special times. Don’t begin with “Do you remember?” They won’t, and it could cause embarrassment and stress. Instead say, “I remember the time…” Share a funny story over which you can all laugh, even if the memories of the event are foggy.
Giving to your elder can bring joy, as you usually receive more than you give.