8 Thoughtful Gifts for Grandparents and Older Relatives

Finding the perfect gift for grandparents and older relatives can be tricky, but it doesn’t have to be impossible. By choosing an appropriate gift, you can make sure they get exactly what they want, whether that’s something you know they need or something fun and just for them. The following gift ideas will show you how to find the right gift no matter who you’re shopping for.

1) Get your hands on some photo books

Photos are one of my grandparents’ favorite gifts to receive. But because they love to look at them daily, print a copy or two (or four) and put them in a photo book. A great way to make it special is to put together an album with their story—how you met, how old you were when they moved in with you, that sort of thing. It’s a nice way to show your appreciation while giving them something beautiful.

2) Give an Amazon or Google Play gift card

Since older relatives often have a computer in their home, buying an Amazon or Google Play gift card is a great idea. For younger grandparents and relatives, consider giving them an iTunes gift card. If you’re not sure what to get someone, ask your parents or other family members what they would like; they might know something that you don’t! You can also buy something off of their wish list if they have one.

3) Take them out to lunch

Getting together with your older relatives is a great excuse to take them out to lunch or dinner. A meal out will give you both time to catch up, and if you choose a restaurant that’s new to them, they’ll be exposed to new foods that can help expand their palate. In fact, eating unfamiliar foods has been shown to spark an increase in brain activity in seniors. If you’re lucky enough to have your grandparents nearby, it might be worth organizing regular meet-ups.

4) Help them with their errands

Don’t assume that just because your grandparent lives in a nearby assisted living facility, they don’t need help with their daily errands. Check in with them on occasion to see what they need, whether it’s picking up groceries or doing some shopping at local stores. Give them something to look forward to by dropping off a gift card with a handwritten note saying you appreciate their friendship.

5) A monthly subscription box gift

To give grandparents an experience they’ll love, consider giving them a subscription box gift. Each month, you can send them an experience that fits their interests or personality. They’ll never know what’s coming next, so it will be a surprise every time! 

6) A handwritten letter or card

Nothing says I love you like a handwritten letter or card. In fact, some grandparents treasure their cards from grandchildren more than any other type of gift. If a physical visit is difficult, sending an email or letter is better than nothing! Maintaining personal relationships with older relatives can be extremely rewarding—and easy to do if you put in a little effort.

7) Find something nostalgic that they used to have

This is a great gift because it’s something that they used to own when they were younger, but don’t necessarily have anymore. You could search for old puzzles, board games, records or photographs of them from their childhood. Even though you may not have been around back then, finding a sentimental item that can remind them of their youth will make them feel so happy! And what kind of grandchild doesn’t want to make their grandparents happy?

8) Buy them a themed gift basket

Putting together a gift basket is an easy way to combine multiple items that will be appreciated as a single present. But don’t make it just any old basket – research each of your relative’s interests and select from them. As you figure out what to include, keep in mind that your budget will likely be affected by your number of gifts, so you may have to scale back on some things or try to find cheaper substitutes.

The gift of stories

From handmade ideas to reminiscence gifts, one thing is important: knowing your loved one life story! Storii is designed to be an automated Life Story service that provides health benefits and generates connections. By subscribing you will receive a call 3 times a week or call-in whenever to answer life story questions. The content is recorded and easily shared with family members and friends encouraging to share important memories.

A life story calling subscription makes a great gift for grandparents. Find out more here.‍