Christmas Wishlist for your Senior Loved One

Thursday, December 7, 2023

  1. Shower chair with armrests
  2. Tub transfer bench if needed to step over a tub.
  3. Medical alert to alert in emergencies.
  4. Raised toilet seat – These are very stable and bolt to the toilet.
  5. Toilet handles – these also bolt to the toilet with no legs to the floor which can create a tripping hazard.
  6. Attachable bidet – I suggest a bidet that has a lever to push instead of a dial to turn because fine motor may be a challenge. Ranges from $30 for a basic electronic bidet to $400 for an electronic bidet with a remote. Consider a travel bidet as well.
  7. Long handled buddy is good to help with bottom hygiene after a bowel movement. Range of motion may be limited as they age or obesity can make this simple act a difficult to perform.
  8. A long handled showerhead ( lightweight, extra long easy flex hose, on/off button are helpful considerations, suggest magnetic if need to return to overhead position).
  9. A hook for the long handled showerhead so it’s in a safe functional reach while they are SEATED on their new shower chair! Get one that attaches to a grab bar, or one that suctions to a wall.
  10. Shower caddy – These suction well to smooth walls and provide safe access to products when showering.
  11. Grab bars in bathroom by shower and toilet (consider anti-slip finish; suction bars should be used with caution only as a balance assist; ask your OT to help with decisions)
  12. Alexa for reminders with keeping appointments and even playing music they love!
  13. A Calendar Clock or Weather Clock – These provide large easy to read orientation. Pair it with a calendar for successful appointment keeping.
  14. Pay for a housekeeper or lawn care.
  15. Reacher/ grabber to pick up items on floor or too high so they don’t fall! “Dragon” reacher is ergonomically friendly and works well. Has a magnet on the end 24”-28” is usually a good length.
  16. Mens Shoes or Womens Shoes – “Sketchers slip ins” provide good support and allow for easy on and off when struggling to get the shoe over the heel.
  17. Sock aid – when putting on socks is too difficult or unsafe.
  18. Long handled shoe horn is a helpful and can be a stylish gift.
  19. Shoe funnel if they have a difficult time putting on their shoes seated.
  20. Dressing stick can help to put on pants and underwear and remove socks.
  21. Ratchet belt – makes it easy for fasten and adjust belt.
  22. Pill organizer for medication management – Be sure to look for ones that are easy to manipulate the lids. Consider a locking self dispensing box.
  23. A tray or tote bag for their walker to carry items – travel in style and convenience! (not all trays fit every walker).
  24. A chair with armrests!
  25. Large calendars and dry erase boards to help with memory.
  26. Personalized calendar makes it extra special.
  27. Adult briefs if needed or pads for leakage.
  28. Womens Clothing Protectors or Mens Clothing protectors.
  29. Meal replacement drinks such as Boost, Ensure.
  30. Long handled sponge – these suds well, rinse easily and have a curved handle essential for reach.
  31. Lotion applicator
  32. Larger clothing for shirts to make it easier to put on, elastic waist band for shorts/ pants and elastic shoe laces. Consider raglan sleeves which are much easier to put on when shoulder range is limited.
  33. Button aid and zipper pull – fine motor or coordination difficulties can make buttons and zippers a challenge.
  34. A picture of you and your family to cherish, photo pillows or blankets are a special gift.
  35. Hand warmers. There are battery operated ones in Walmart or Amazon!
  36. Bedside rails can assist with getting in and out of bed and provide storage access.
  37. Birthday calendar – Decorative and easy reference!
  38. Robotic Cat or Robotic Dog
  39. Create an album or book of experiences for your loved one.
  40. Cognitive exercise book.
  41. Create a CD of favorite songs or purchase one from a designated era.
  42. Christmas ornaments can be beautiful and heartwarming gifts
  43. Consider a senior friendly cell phone or landline.

What NOT To Buy

What NOT to buy! Consider the level of safety risk for your person when buying gifts

  • Candles
  • Talcum powder
  • Perfume
  • Food with cumbersome wrappers
  • Pets
  • Aquarium

The Best Present Is You

The ABSOLUTELY BEST Present of All is a visit or call from YOU!!! Merry Christmas!

Also suggest therapy for your loved ones. They need to ask primary care physician for a referral for out patient or homehealth .If they can drive, outpatient therapy; but if they are not able, home health! Everyone needs a tune up!

Recent Posts