Older dads might shake their head when gift-giving time comes around on special days. Many men insist they don’t need gifts. Most adult children or grandchildren like to give a present, so consider gifts in these categories.
Community College or Senior Center Classes for Seniors
At many U.S. community colleges and senior centers, classes are offered free, or for a small fee, for senior citizens and residents within the district. The classes teach new skills, explore creativity, stimulate intellectual thought or offer physical fitness.
If Dad’s interests include investing, consider enrolling him in a stocks and bonds management or investment class. If grandpa would like to explore painting, drawing, singing or playing an instrument, consider those classes. In the educational realm try a history or political issues class. Swimming, tai chi, yoga and circuit training might be available to keep Dad fit. Part of the gift might be to pay for parking if necessary, drive Dad to class, or take him on a tour of campus to get him acclimated.
Gifts Related to a Hobby
Dad or Grandpa will be delighted to receive a present that is related to his favorite past time.
- Gardening seniors might appreciate new, ergonomic garden tools that offer relief from wrist or hand pain, such as a weeder, trowel or fork. There are back-saving seats, raised planters and gloves designed with seniors in mind. Read about tools, gear and more that have earned an “Ease of Use Commendation” from the Arthritis Foundation.
- For the golfing dad, consider getting personalized golf balls. They can be imprinted with his name or pick up a generic set of three that say, “Special Grandfather.” For the dad who still swings the tennis racquet, personalized tennis balls can also be ordered.
Around the House Gifts
Show elderly fathers appreciation by buying them useful and practical gifts.
- A big button universal remote makes life easier because Dad can easily handle this universal remote that controls two devices. It’s made to work with a TV and converter box, including cable, satellite and digital TV. The nicest part for Dad is that the gift giver will initially program the remote.
- Engage granddad with a new puzzle or large print puzzle book. Large piece jigsaw puzzles and nostalgia games are available online for an elderly dad. Part of the pleasure of this gift is the giver’s company to play the games.
- Consider giving a talking calculator for elderly dads whose vision isn’t good. Dad will have to type in numbers, but won’t have to see the numbers on the screen (although these calculators usually have ½ inch black numbers that are easy to see). A loud voice repeats the number that Dad’s typed.
- If an older dad likes to fiddle with computers, electronic devices and gadgets, consider giving a high tech gift, if it’s something he can still enjoy and use.
From the Heart
- If an elderly dad or grandpa lives alone, bake a favorite cake, casserole or recipe. Freeze it in individual portions so Dad can enjoy it when he wants.
- If Dad still drives, take the car and fill it with gas, then get it washed and detailed.
- Spend time with Dad looking at family photo albums, wedding books or hobby-related books.
Keep the Fun in Gift Giving
Gifts for older dads or older moms are appreciated when the thought behind a gift makes sense for this time in life. Consider hobbies, interests and intellectual pursuits to make it a special gift.
Nellene Teubner Plouffe - My passion for writing was kindled in third grade when I entered – and won – an essay contest sponsored by the local fire ...
Join the Conversation