Christmas Wishlist for your Senior Loved One
Thursday, December 7, 2023
Recommended Items
- Shower chair with armrests
- Tub transfer bench if needed to step over a tub.
- Medical alert to alert in emergencies.
- Raised toilet seat – These are very stable and bolt to the toilet.
- Toilet handles – these also bolt to the toilet with no legs to the floor which can create a tripping hazard.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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).
- 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.
- Shower caddy – These suction well to smooth walls and provide safe access to products when showering.
- 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)
- Alexa for reminders with keeping appointments and even playing music they love!
- A Calendar Clock or Weather Clock – These provide large easy to read orientation. Pair it with a calendar for successful appointment keeping.
- Pay for a housekeeper or lawn care.
- 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.
- 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.
- Sock aid – when putting on socks is too difficult or unsafe.
- Long handled shoe horn is a helpful and can be a stylish gift.
- Shoe funnel if they have a difficult time putting on their shoes seated.
- Dressing stick can help to put on pants and underwear and remove socks.
- Ratchet belt – makes it easy for fasten and adjust belt.
- Pill organizer for medication management – Be sure to look for ones that are easy to manipulate the lids. Consider a locking self dispensing box.
- A tray or tote bag for their walker to carry items – travel in style and convenience! (not all trays fit every walker).
- A chair with armrests!
- Large calendars and dry erase boards to help with memory.
- Personalized calendar makes it extra special.
- Adult briefs if needed or pads for leakage.
- Womens Clothing Protectors or Mens Clothing protectors.
- Meal replacement drinks such as Boost, Ensure.
- Long handled sponge – these suds well, rinse easily and have a curved handle essential for reach.
- Lotion applicator
- 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.
- Button aid and zipper pull – fine motor or coordination difficulties can make buttons and zippers a challenge.
- A picture of you and your family to cherish, photo pillows or blankets are a special gift.
- Hand warmers. There are battery operated ones in Walmart or Amazon!
- Bedside rails can assist with getting in and out of bed and provide storage access.
- Birthday calendar – Decorative and easy reference!
- Robotic Cat or Robotic Dog
- Create an album or book of experiences for your loved one.
- Cognitive exercise book.
- Create a CD of favorite songs or purchase one from a designated era.
- Christmas ornaments can be beautiful and heartwarming gifts
- 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!