The Saybrook at Haddam is making final preparations for our annual “Holiday Stroll” which we host the first week of each December to kick off the holiday season in style. We transform our community into a winter wonderland of sorts with beautiful Christmas trees and decorations, plenty of poinsettias and wreaths, menorahs and mangers. It is a wonderful time and sets the tone for a happy December. We welcome local artisans and vendors to sell their unique and hand-made items, and we bring in carolers and other performers to fill the halls with festive sounds. For many residents and families, this is the best time and place to start (or even finish) holiday shopping.
When it comes to shopping for the senior citizens in our lives, most people struggle. Seniors often implore their families and friends not to spend too much money on them, as they claim to have “everything they need.” While this may be true, Christmas and Hanukkah are definitely meant for giving and spreading joy. So, we thought we would offer some suggestions on great gifts for seniors based on our years working with seniors and caregivers.
Time. The gift of time is truly the most treasured of all, so make a “date” with the seniors in your life. This can be a short visit to enjoy lunch together, or a longer period of time when you can bake cookies together in their home or in a community kitchen, take a leisurely drive to see holiday decorations, or work on a puzzle or craft together. Of course, family and friends are always invited to attend any event at The Saybrook at Haddam or join us on an outing to a museum, concert or restaurant.
Practicality. Sometimes a fancy new problem-solving gadget or gizmo might be just the thing for Grandma or Grandpa. Caring.com offers a full range of helpful items from easy-grip pens to ergonomic shoes to posture-friendly laptop or e-book stands. Many of these clever gifts are affordable, fun and truly helpful.
News and Entertainment. If the seniors in your life love to read, give them a magazine subscription or a gift card to a book store, audiobook service, or e-book reader. Or, consider helping them set up a podcast app on their phone or tablet so they can listen to experts talk about a huge range of subjects from cooking to current events to gardening. These on-demand programs are free and informative – and can be enjoyed by seniors all year long.
Friendship. Sometimes a simple phone call, e-mail or post card is the perfect gift. Send along a little joke or funny story, tell them about your travels, keep them updated on your children. Try to be consistent with communication throughout the holiday season and the coming new year – and try to make an in-person visit whenever possible.
Of course, jewelry, clothing and sweet treats are also appreciated by nearly everyone – seniors included. For those types of items, we hope you consider shopping at our Holiday Stroll on December 1 from 6-8 p.m. Come enjoy delicious desserts and snacks from Chef Nadine, or make a toast to family and friends with a cordial or two. We think our community looks the best during this time – and we would love to share that with you as we welcome in another holiday season together!
For a private tour of The Saybrook at Haddam or its Safe Harbor memory care neighborhood, please fill out the form below or contact David Downey at 860-345-3779.
