What do we buy our aging parents who don’t need anything for Christmas?

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Just_Trish_92@reddit

Something that gets used up and has a touch of luxury to it, such as a plate of homemade treats or a basket of scented soaps. Or a framed photo of you and your kids which can be a printout of a snapshot you took with your phone in a frame from Dollar Tree.

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BuddhistChrist@reddit

If you all went on vacation at a certain place as kids, take your parents to the same place and go as a (larger) family.

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FRANPW1@reddit

Pay some of their bills. Or just give them cash.

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Dog_is_my_co-pilot1@reddit

Donation to a charity. Or, just spend time with them. Make them a meal.

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cwsjr2323@reddit

One of the best decisions I made was about aged 40. I stopped fussing at all with my parents, always got a hug when visiting, called weekly and told them I loved them. They are both long gone, and I cherish those memories. My gifts to them the last decades were always long conversations about their youth, their older families members who passed before I met them, hometowns, and the misadventures they had survived.

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lelio98@reddit

Nothing. Just be there.

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ztarlight12@reddit

My widowed mother likes to knit and lives on Social Security, so we gifted her gift cards for gas, groceries, and craft stores.

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Competitive-Ice2956@reddit

Experience gifts (if they are up to it). Museum memberships, movie tickets etc

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Empty_Mulberry9680@reddit

We do a lot of consumable things - snacks, soap, lotion. And also donations to favorite charities, which we just write in the cards.

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Subterranean44@reddit

An experience? Are the mobile? Take them to a show or on a trip. Then it’s a memory for everyone :)

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Woodbutcher1234@reddit

A card showing that you've prepaid on a heating bill, or maybe a water or property tax bill. That gives us "play money". With natural gas here in Ma. slated to jump 30% this year, it would be welcome. And a facetime.

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Savings-Midnight3803@reddit

Fruitcake.. the inexpensive cellophane wrapped bricks at the discount store.. Get a nice card and write something meaningful in it..

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Woodbutcher1234@reddit

Send me your address and I'll send you a fruitcake that has converted many a cake hater. 100 year old family recipe from Donegal.

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revchewie@reddit

Something edible, gift basket or the like. Or make a charitable donation in their name to a cause they'd like.

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sarcasticorange@reddit

We do gift cards to their favorite restaurants.

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Suzbaru13@reddit

My mother and I call this the gift of time. I get her gift cards to restaurants she likes and then we go together. Also helps "ease" the bill since I pay for meals 80% of the time anyway. I collect them throughout the year when they do sales like spend 40 get 10 extra, etc.

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VyvanseLanky_Ad5221@reddit

Enjoy the time. They won't be here forever.

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povertyandpinetrees@reddit

THIS.

My father died suddenly in July. My mother has heart issues, is going senile, and needs hearing aids. My stepfather has bad COPD and what looks like skin cancer. All of this has come to pass within the last five or six years.

The number of "tomorrow"s or "another time"s is limited and rapidly taking away.

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ASTERnaught@reddit

This might also take some of the sting out of the current cost of eating out. As Gen Xers, we’ve seen costs about triple or quadruple in our adult lives, but our parents have seen about a tenfold increase during their adulthood. My parents are financially comfortable but still visibly cringe at the cost of even a casual dining meal for two.

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Suzbaru13@reddit

It's a bit of a struggle to have her not look at the prices on the menu while ordering, lol. She's 84.

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Sensitive_Turnip_199@reddit

Do people not look at menu prices?

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Popcorn_Blitz@reddit

I'm not a fan of gift cards but I think that doing something like this would be a lovely idea.

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SunshineAlways@reddit

Older people love using gift cards in restaurants, and they always mention who gave it to them, so they think of you when they use them.

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BeginningLaw6032@reddit

I do gift cards for my mom

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hujassman@reddit

This is my move too.

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18RowdyBoy@reddit

I’m 65 and I just want my family to spend time with me 😊✌️

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hujassman@reddit

Isn't this what the holidays are really supposed to be about? Not the commercial aspect that retailers push. I don't need to keep up with the Joneses anymore.

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18RowdyBoy@reddit

My son just finished training and is now in a higher tax bracket 😂He asked me what I want and I tell him not to spend money on me. I have everything I need and don’t have room for a bunch of stuff.

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hujassman@reddit

I tell people if you want to get me something, give me a promise that you're not going to cause trouble for me over the course of the next year. Lol!

The results have been mixed.

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Guilty-Alternative42@reddit

I ask my parents at the beginning of November to start thinking about a Christmas present for each of them...around mid December I end up buying them this, because they can't think of a single thing they want. 😵😀

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Stein1071@reddit

Cracker Barrel and Golden Corral.

YMMV on Golden Corral post COVID

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Fresh_Sector3917@reddit

For some strange reason, I’ve had a craving for a buffet for the longest time which is strange because the last time I went to one was probably a Ponderosa about 20 years ago. So last week, I went to a Golden Corral for the first time ever. While there was a lot of food to choose from, I was kind of underwhelmed. It was ok, not bad but not great. Maybe I would try going for breakfast sometime but it’s pretty far away so probably not.

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Stein1071@reddit

My mother and her husband (79/86) swear by them. They travel around the state to go to different ones. Its... weird but it keeps them active

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Fresh_Sector3917@reddit

If the food is consistent restaurant to restaurant, I could see seeking out destinations where they would find them. Finding a decent place to eat would be one less thing to worry about.

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spycej@reddit

Same

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h3fabio@reddit

Same.

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pasarina@reddit

I’ve given steaks to them from Kansas City Steak Company. It always seems to go over really well

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Watercatblue@reddit

Absolutely spot on! My Mother used to say....Don't give me anything that has to be fed, watered, or dusted!

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Faceless_Cat@reddit

“Edible”

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Key_Elderberry3351@reddit

Nobody, and I mean NOBODY wants a charitable donation in their name. If you want to donate to charity, do it. Others can do the same.

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revchewie@reddit

Considering all my family and friends liked the idea enough to adopt it, you’re wrong.

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Good_With_Tools@reddit

I made a donation to the local humane society in my mom's name once. We had gotten several cats from there. She called me to thank me, but informed me that she has been banned from there since she likes to get her cats declawed. It was a kinda awkward conversation.

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paperwasp3@reddit

Declawing is barbaric.

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Hamiltoncorgi@reddit

I think the name is part of the problem. If they called it chopping off the top of each toe people would be less inclined to do it

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husbandbulges@reddit

Oh that’s hilarious.

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Dirty_Wookie1971@reddit

Make charitable donations to the Human Fund c/o G. Costanza

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WanderLuster72@reddit

Or celebrate Festivus instead of Christmas!

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Legitimate-March9792@reddit

😂

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North-Question-5844@reddit

Lol Lol Lol

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Bomber_Haskell@reddit

Chicago All Saints Hospital is always good too

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Primary-Ad8012@reddit

Money For People.

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captain_hug99@reddit

Human fund.

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KerissaKenro@reddit

I have been doing donations for a couple of relatives. Will probably do more

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Ger8nium@reddit

My siblings and I refer to all such things (food gift basket, restaurant gift card, movie gift card) as "consumables." ;-)

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BitNorthOfForty@reddit

Yes, 💯! “Consumables” are my go-to gift category for my aging parents; that’s a perfect term.

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Eris_Ellis@reddit

Yep, we are all about consumables now. We will splash out on sundries that our parents are too cheap to buy, like good chocolate, name brand marmalade and fancy shortbread. Basically, Whole Foods.

They will ooh and ahh and scold us for spending too much money while shoving their faces with glee. It's great, they deserve nice treats.

After that whole "I bet that chocolate cost $30" speech they happily give us back the basket at the end of the visit with full expectations we will return with it full next Christmas!

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Slater_8868@reddit

Do you mean "extra special" consumables? Because that's what I get my dad, who is in a lot of pain and he also can't drive anymore They really help him, so it's like the best gift ever ❤️

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mommacat94@reddit

Yep, consumables here too!

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LaeliaCatt@reddit

Lol, that's what we call them too. Everybody gets consumables.

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PatienceandFortitude@reddit

Candy for my mother. She lives it

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bakewelltart20@reddit

Mine too. She's very easy to buy for in that dept...anything that rots your teeth 😂

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JustABizzle@reddit

My folks loved it when I made them fruit baskets w bread and cheese and jam and stuff. Buy in discount stores, wrap in fabric. Get the basket from goodwill

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SecretaryTricky@reddit

Yes! Aldi has a large block of aged Cheddar for $2.57 and a few others! Their produce is very good and you can get great jams/marmalades and crackers etc at Marshalls or Home Goods etc for very little.

I can make up an awesome gift basket of fruit, cheeses, crackers and jams for $30 including the basket.

You can get the actual basket at 5 Below 🙂

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JustABizzle@reddit

Also pastas, sauces, olive oils, vinegars plus a few baguettes and garlic cloves….pick a theme.

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velnazzy77@reddit

This sounds delicious!

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After_Preference_885@reddit

Aldi is great for this stuff

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No_Leadership6682@reddit

gif

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JackBurtonTruckingCo@reddit

Yes, fancy snacks 💯

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PoweredByPierogi@reddit

My parents have been getting gift trays of dried fruits from me for a while now, and they love them.

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chinstrap@reddit

the edible years, yes

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EnergyCreature@reddit

Yeah this is what we do. Whatever their favorite dish is, I either make it or if my skill is lacking, I get it from their favorite place.

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Givemeallthecabbages@reddit

Same. I bake their favorite Christmas cookies that they don't get in the cafeteria of their senior apartments. I also have a Costco membership and they don't, so sometimes there are fancy chocolates and things they like.

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jami05pearson@reddit

Make them something. Like when you were little. Be nostalgic!

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STLVPRFAN@reddit

Gift of time….your company.

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witchybaba@reddit

Call , FaceTime. It’s all we really want

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Zorrha@reddit

My mother loved a cooking basket I made for her one year. It didn't have food per se, it included different kinds of cooking oils, spices to try out & cooking thing like a pepper mill. She loved it.

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moleassasin@reddit

Food

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quiltshack@reddit

Postage stamps. Fun ones

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IPP_2023@reddit

We are the senior parents that our two adult sons face the same issue: what to get the old folks for a gift. Fortunately, we have all that we need, so it's difficult. We encourage restaurant gift cards, Home Depot, Amazon, and the like. Going out to eat has become a budget buster. We write their name on the gift card. When we use it, we text or call them with thanks.

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vws8mydog@reddit

My Dad doesn't want anything but a card, but I know he's going to send me a ton of stuff. Neither of us have room for stuff. So this year for his birthday I got him wool socks, which he requested. I usually get his a fishing license for X-mas, but he stopped fishing when one of his buddies died. I'm thinking about giving him a visa gift card.

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whiskey_formymen@reddit

we just need you to show up. and chocolate covered cherries

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Intelligent_Smoke868@reddit

I buy them fancy jams and salsas. Something that brightens up a cold day. It’s nice to put fancy jam on toast.

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3Yolksalad@reddit

As an older person with kids that live beyond weekend driving distance, big hugs and your presence means more than anything you can buy.

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Anxious_Front_7157@reddit

Fix things in the house that might be broken. Offer to clean out closets or basement. Treat them to dinner. Get them an oil change. Get the car washed.

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BigBadBinky@reddit

Socks and food

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bde959@reddit

Think of something simple. I’m an old lady and I know.

Do they like coffee? Give them a handmade basket of specialty coffee with creams and accessories.

Do they like fishing? Give them a basket with a thermos and some fishing accessories.

I think if you get what I mean

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Lybychick@reddit

Unless they have financial needs, what they want is your time. They also likely want to show you off. Go with them to the places they like to go and make a good impression on their day to day friends. Senior center, church, the lodge, the coffee shop. Take mom to get her hair done at her usual place.

Focus on spending time with them…put the phone away except for when you’re taking pictures of you and them together.

Listen to what they want to talk about even if you wildly disagree with them … arguing is not a gift.

Redirect uncomfortable conversations by asking their history…where did they meet? Where did your grandparents meet? What was the world like when they were a kid or when they were your age. Ask mom about her recipes and what she remembers most about your childhood. Family history slips through our fingers and the older we get the more we remember the way past because the future is very repetitive.

At the end of the visit, upload the great photos you took of y’all together onto a $20 digital photo frame you picked up at WM and give them the chance to relive this sweet holiday visit. If you’re staying after Xmas day, you can put the frame under the tree and spend some post-celebration time uploading some classic family photos your parents pick out.

Give yourself a gift, too, to get through the tough days ahead…buy yourself a frame and load those same pics up so you can be reminded of the people who love you.

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ncopland@reddit

Excellent ideas. Thoughtful and will be appreciated.

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kickboxergirl23@reddit

They just want your time. Make a few more good memories. Spend the day, maybe take them somewhere they've never been. Maybe take a train to the nearest big city. Whatever you do, don't let it be rushed. Just enjoy the day, and don't forget to tell thank you for everything (assuming you've had a nice upbringing you are grateful for).

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am_riley@reddit

Every elderly person I've ever met LOVES the little hand warmer packets. Most younger people too, but Def older people.

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ellieD@reddit

This is a great idea!

My father was just telling me how he was putting his hands under the cat to keep them warm. :)

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am_riley@reddit

If you're feeling fancy, they make rechargable ones, too! I haven't tried them.

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ArguablyMe@reddit

We bought some for my mother-in-law, she couldn't stop talking about how helpful they are and easy for her to use/charge.

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Pattycakes1966@reddit

How about tickets to a play or concert?

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happycj@reddit

I got them one of those digital photo frames that is connected to the internet. Me, my wife, my sister, friends, can send photos to the frame from wherever we are, and my parents can see them.

It's always nice to get a text from mom cooing over the great new dog picture I took, or whatever.

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IllTakeACupOfTea@reddit

I am so glad this worked for you. We purchased it and ours complained that 'the photos repeated' and that 'it took too much of their time'. Yes, a digital photo frame on the mantle took too much time away from their busy TV schedule. They would watch it to look for new pictures, and therefore the repeats were annoying. We could not get them to understand how it was supposed to work. Like, just look at it when you want to and think 'gosh aren't my grandkids cute?' A year later they gave it to us in a box of things they wanted donated.

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ACDCMom@reddit

Sounds familiar. LOL

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curiousmind111@reddit

I can’t help but wonder whether anybody ever sent the wrong pics….

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happycj@reddit

I'm sure it has happened to someone ... but the youngest in our family is my sister, and she's 55, so isn't taking or sharing those kinds of photos. ;-)

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Vegetable_Morning740@reddit

Love the Skylight!! Our Daughter gave it to us years ago , we LOVE it as do our grandkids when they come over , they love that we love seeing them during the day

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AtlanticJim@reddit

We got one last year and love coming home to "You have new photos!"

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Artichokeydokey8@reddit (OP)

Super cute idea. Love that you can send photos to it.

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KP-RNMSN@reddit

I love this idea! I have one and my daughter away at college sends silly pics all the time

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happycj@reddit

We almost use it like texting now.

"My wife and I went out to dinner last night, and this was the amazing decor in the place!"

They get to see into our lives on their own time/schedule. And I had all their old photo slides from the 50s-80s digitized, and those cycle into the photo frame as well. So they have memories in there along with current life stuff from family and friends. It's a cool little thing.

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Moderate_t3cky@reddit

The digitizing of old photos is a great gift idea!

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BigWeesel@reddit

I second this idea, just be prepared that you may need to do some tech support over the phone when it inevitably disconnects from wifi or bricks.

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Geniusinternetguy@reddit

Got the same one. It’s a great gift.

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Pale_Marionberry_538@reddit

We have this frame too. It’s great!!

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Optimal_Wolf_458@reddit

Ooh I like this. Thanks for the idea. My mom is 90 in November and she doesn't get out much. Plus it will keep her in touch with our friends and family in the digital age.

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autogeriatric@reddit

Oh, yours have WiFi? Fancypants!

Seriously it’s a great idea, if only my mother had WiFi. She had a total meltdown because last year she needed a new cable box and the remote was slightly different from the old one.

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FlexyZebra@reddit

I got my father and stepmom one last year. They didn’t want it because “China” and if it was made in Asia the Chinese would use it to spy on them smh. Yes, I have one of those boomer parents. Luckily my mom is amazing!

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webfoottedone@reddit

This is so great! I can send the link to the whole family. As my father become less and less mobile, this will be fun for him.

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Multigrain_Migraine@reddit

Yeah my grandma has one of those! Sometimes the wifi in the nursing home doesn't work so well so it doesn't always get updated, but it's nice to be able to send her photos from overseas.

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KookyComfortable6709@reddit

That is awesome! Can you recommend the one you bought?

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tag_@reddit

My brother got my parents an Aura frame last year, and he and I and my 2 kids add to it all the time. My parents love it - simpler than smartphones, all in one place - they have it in their living room, on all the time.

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happycj@reddit

ABSOLUTELY. We had a NixPlay that worked Ok for a while, and then was bricked by their support dept. while they were trying to fix an issue with it. "Oops. Sorry. Well, here's 50% off a new one."

No. Thank you.

So after a bunch of research we got this: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01N7ENHO6

It's the Skylight Digital Picture Frame, and it works very well. The app is well designed and easy to use. You can also just give people an email address to send pictures to. And the screen is also touch-sensitive and has on-screen menus, so if a photo isn't wanted or didn't come through well, tap the screen and you can delete it (or Favorite it, too).

It's not as big as others, but it works SO MUCH BETTER.

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clashfan77@reddit

We have the viewclix. You can send photos and use it as a video call system

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KookyComfortable6709@reddit

Thanks!

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coffeetreatrepeat@reddit

Yes, I got one of those Skylights for my parents a few years ago and it is still a top tier gift that Mom brags about to her friends.

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Reasonable_Yard_3300@reddit

I was totally thinking almost the exact same thing.

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Hepkat98@reddit

I've never heard of this. It's perfect!!!

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mtoomtoo@reddit

I bought my mom one too. We absolutely love our digital frame. It’s so much fun to see memories and people pop up on there.

We loaded up a frame with pics for my mom and helped her set it up on her internet. Then she promptly returned it to Costco for credit. Ugh. She’s so complicated.

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esk_209@reddit

We got those for our folks also -- and this year I got one for myself and one for my brother. I love the "send via app" feature!

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ProstateSalad@reddit

I'm an aging parent who doesn't need anything. Give me an experience that includes you and your kids. Doesn't have to be pricy, just something we'll all enjoy. Trip to DQ or similar after is extra points.

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crossstitchbeotch@reddit

Food. If you don’t have much to spend, cook them a meal while you’re there.

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Extra-Spare5490@reddit

My family understands the holidays. We set a limit of $50.00 each. Then tell them to buy what they want and I'll buy what I want.why waist money on useless gift cards.

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Critical-Ad-577@reddit

A visa gift card that way they can use it almost anywhere. I’m 70 and that’s what I would appreciate.

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fibrepirate@reddit

Socks. Unique, fun, playful socks.

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fredfarkle2@reddit

Prepaid funerals.

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New_Refrigerator_895@reddit

good ass coffee, warm ass socks, gift cards to bad ass restaurants

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marenamoo@reddit

Time spent with them

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Perle1234@reddit

Fuzzy blanket always works. Even if they have a fuzzy blanket, this is a new fuzzy blanket. I’m a fan of puzzle boxes too. The kind that are tricky to open, that you store things in. Idk maybe those are presents I’d like lmao. My dad has dementia and is always freezing so I prob will get him a blanket, or a cozy sweater.

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Due-Asparagus6479@reddit

My mother said if my nephew gets her another fuzzy blanket she is shoving it where the sun doesn't shine. 5 years in a row.

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thanx_it_has_pockets@reddit

As a lover of fuzzy blankets, I would be happy with this gift every year. (these and fountain pens are my favorite things)

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DrumsKing@reddit

I'll take ALL the fuzzy blankets. They lose their fuzzy after so many washings (and get used for something else). So, keep em coming.

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Capital_Pea@reddit

for some reason my family always buy me couch throws lol. I have so many….theyre everywhere, i had to tell them to stop

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Present-Pen-5486@reddit

Found a fuzzy blanket that folds up into a tote for my step-mom who is always cold.

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ezgomer@reddit

Thank you for teaching me today that my mom constantly being cold is not just aging, but part of her dementia

I really need to read this stack of caregiver books I got here

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DrumsKing@reddit

Any simple gift. Food is good (Those snack box things). Small popcorn tin.

As we were always told: "Its the thought that counts."

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black65Cutlass@reddit

We stopped giving unneeded and useless gifts several years ago and now make donations to charity instead.

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Gigmeister@reddit

Give the gift of time. Take them to lunch, spend the day with them.

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my4floofs@reddit

Consumable gifts or things they actually need. We put in a rule at our families that anything we see after Oct 1 goes on a Christmas list with a date to buy. If no one buys it then the person can buy it themselves. They don’t know who bought it, just that it was bought. We also set a max$ per person so it’s been more equitable and easy.

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FragilousSpectunkery@reddit

Pictures of the kids in frames that match their need (wall or surface).

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rgk0925@reddit

I am damn near 70. I just want the gift of time. It could be dinner, a visit or even a phone call. I have way fewer tomorrows than yesterdays.

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MexicanVanilla22@reddit

We have dinner with my 90+ yr old FIL once a week. We descend on his house, take over his kitchen, appetizers, dinner from scratch, dessert and coffee. We play board games or watch a movie. Even my teenagers look forward to visiting. Spending time together really is the best gift!

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kingjamesporn@reddit

I'm going to pay for a Disney/Hulu subscription.

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FreshResult5684@reddit

All my relatives get pictures of my grandson in a frame

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amethystisagem@reddit

Take them somewhere special

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KPac76@reddit

A photography package to use on a family photo. It's a great gift to have all of the siblings pitch in on.

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Pinkkorn69@reddit

My parents and my sister and I haven't exchanged presents in 12 to 15 years. We don't need anything and why spend money on knick knack people don't need.

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ellieD@reddit

Food

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JegHusker@reddit

Friends overseas have given the folks those digital photo frames where they can upload new pics of kids and places to share with their families.

My parents loved Christmas stockings with small gifts and candy.

Gift certificates to a favorite seafood shack, books, music.

I made cookies every year - their choice - and cooked holiday dinners.

It’s very corny, but the gift of time together is what they’ll remember most. (I realize this isn’t practical for everyone. )

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rrognlie@reddit

I make donations to WorldVision and similar charities in their name. And then cook dinner for the family.

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thatsaniner@reddit

My parents like restaurant gift cards. I usually give them places a step above where they’d take themselves, so they can feel like they have a treat.

No exciting to unwrap but I know they’ll use them.

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whatthisit@reddit

Gift card for mani-pedi is a good one. They often have trouble taking care of their feet/clipping nails.

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nightwolves@reddit

Jellybelly goes hard w them

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Unhappy-Dimension681@reddit

I set up a coffee subscription with Atlas Coffee Club for my parents last time I was looking for ideas. I’ll probably look for something similar for Christmas.

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SoCarColo@reddit

I pledged to all the family I only give consumable gifts or experiential gifts. Tickets to events, airline gift cards, etc.

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New-Force-3818@reddit

Put the time in to make them something

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Familiar_Fall7312@reddit

A sweet card with a gift certificate. They more than anyone would know what to spend the gift card on.

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Gone2georgia@reddit

I took my mother in law for a spa day. It was fun to sit and talk while we were pampered

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CoconutPalace@reddit

I got my stepmom a gift certificate for her local entertainment venue. She found a Christmas event she loves and is taking her friend. Big win❣️

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TrueNotTrue55@reddit

A coupon book for a day a week or month of things that you will do for them. Something they need or want. 1)Cone visit while cooking a meal 2)Bring over a meal already cooked and portioned into freezer bags 3)Run errands and take them with you to get them out of the house 4)Picnic lunch at a park 5)Meal at a restaurant 6) Clean the bathroom and change sheets 7)Cleaning that is hard for them to do 8)Subscription to a channel they like 9)If tgey like gardening-plant something or do something they would like done 10)Do something they need done in their home-like paint, hang pictures, laundry 11)If they like to write letters or cards-buy some stationery & stamps-maybe add a nice pen with their initials or name engraved.

If you really sit and think the possibilities are endless. The gift of time is always a gift that’s appreciated. Good luck. You will enjoy it also.

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Low-Regret5048@reddit

My husband and I like food or experience gifts!

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Grand_Taste_8737@reddit

I simply spend time with them.

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Artichokeydokey8@reddit (OP)

That is a gift.

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sprocket1234@reddit

Also help them with things around the house. Maybe a little heavy cleaning that they aren't able to do any longer

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aspenbooboo41@reddit

This is what Ive been doing too. Spending weekend with them and helping them do all the heavy lifting things, gardening, power washing, etc they cant or shouldnt do anymore. They appreciate it more than any tangible gift and that gives me great pleasure as well.

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Neddyrow@reddit

This is what I do. I cut down a tree, put a new roof on their shed, painted the basement and I helped clean up the leaves in the yard just last weekend.

I have young sons for my age and they get to hang out with my boys while I work. Seeing their grandkids is the only thing they want.

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dontrespondever@reddit

And when they ask what I want - same thing.

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Nynydancer@reddit

That’s what I do. I pay for dinner out with everyone and that’s it. I have to fly us all over so it’s a lot.

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NovelPepper8443@reddit

Yes! Both of my parents in their later years (Dad died at 86, mom still with us at 84) always asked for us to spend time with them. Our "gifts" were fixing a broken fence, cleaning the house, walking their dog, getting their cars serviced, cooking meals.

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fleetiebelle@reddit

Exactly. OP doesn't say the parents' age and ability, but my parents love it when we're just around. Help them around the house if they need it. Go to the local places that they always say they want to go but never do. Take them shopping and make them dinner. My parents rarely let us spend a dime on them, but being there is enough.

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JohnExcrement@reddit

Speaking as an old person, I value time with loved ones having new or even old happy familiar experiences together. So I love being taken to an event, out to dinner, etc. I see you don’t live close, but how about tickets to events in their area or something similar?

Most of us oldsters are at the point of getting rid of stuff and don’t really need more items :)

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Vegetable_Morning740@reddit

I came here for ideas and they are all great , except my in-laws…they are the kindest , most generous people who have everything they need plus . I’m going to try a gift card from their favorite Organic Store . They eat extremely healthy and won’t go out to eat sense Covid . They don’t drink . They don’t go to movies . It’s exhausting. I did find a couple good political books for my father in law .

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laberdog@reddit

Your time

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LightenUpFrancis1968@reddit

A puppy.

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21stCenturyJanes@reddit

Best thing we got my Mom was one of those electronic picture frames that we can send pictures to. So if we’re doing something fun, we can send it to Mom’s frame and she’ll see it immediately. Kind of a personalized, electronic postcard. This is an excellent way to stay in touch. The one we bought was a SkylightFrame.com

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emily1078@reddit

If you're about to be laid off and have a healthy relationship with them, I bet they would be appalled at you spending money on them. Especially if you're traveling to be with them.

If you hate the idea of showing up empty handed (and you believe it's the thought that counts), challenge yourself to find the most meaningful gift possible for $5. You'll actually spend more time thinking about them to accomplish this task, and it could end up bringing them more joy than laughter.

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jenyj89@reddit

My late husband and I used to send his father Harry & David’s fruit. He didn’t need anything but could enjoy the gift.

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krummen53@reddit

Give a donation to their favorite charity in their honor- I do this every Christmas for my adult siblings and parents!

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Birantis1@reddit

Agree with the comestibles - we get stuff they wouldn’t normally buy. So far has gone down a treat.

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In_The_End_63@reddit

Gift cards to buy consumables / get entertained.

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DangerKitty555@reddit

Fuzzy blankets and snacks. Candles.

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Queenofhackenwack@reddit

parents are 88 and 92.... candy, apple pie, and home made italian dinner ( but then we give them that all the time.)

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MobileLocal@reddit

I got my mom and my daughters a WiFi touch light from Uncommon Goods. We all have a different assigned color and know who is ‘saying Hi’.

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No_Stress_8938@reddit

Gifts don’t matter. As a mom with out of state kids, I want time spent with them. Not gifts that most likely, aren’t needed.

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lovelynutz@reddit

Cameo.com has thousands of celebrities from TV, Movies, and sports that will send a personalized message to them for all occasions for anywhere from 25-500 dollars depending on who you hire.

You get to keep the message, my grandson got my wife and I a favorite sports legend to wish us a happy anniversary. So cool.

Turnaround is usually 24 hrs to get the message.

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Myghost_too@reddit

Nothing you spend time with them. Cook them a meal. Do something nice for them or share an experience. If you have children, you make sure they get to see their grandchildren on the holidays. That is what is special, not "stuff".

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thatsplatgal@reddit

My parents and I stopped giving each other gifts 15 yrs ago. They said they didn’t want anymore “stuff” and that I’ll have to get rid of it when they die anyway so save myself the trouble. God I love them for that.

But since I’m GenX and I nobody tells be what to do, even my parents, I like to give them experiences > over things. Gifts I’ve given:

A few rounds of golf for my 80 yr old dad at a course he’s too cheap to pay for.
Monthly flower arrangements delivered for my mom.
Theater tickets to see a show but I go with them so we can build a core memory together. I time it for when I’m in town visiting which isn’t always the holidays. This could be high tea, a spa service , just really depends on what I find based on where they live.
House cleaning for a few months (but a deep clean kind).
Fancy steakhouse dinner because they would never spend that anymore on food.
I love to send grass fed steaks and other meats to stock the freezer for awhile.
I also have ordered from Goldbelly. It kills me that my dad will eat a microwaveable pot pie on Christmas alone so I will send him a decadent meal from Old Ebbit Grill in DC that makes his day super special. He always loves it - raves and raves about it - but then complains I shouldn’t spend my money on that. Precisely why I love doing it, he enjoys every morsel.

Hope that helps some.

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le4t@reddit

We've kind of become a Goldbelly family. People can get special treats from "home" or that vacation they loved or just something special they can't get where they live now.

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thatsplatgal@reddit

I love it. Any places you’ve ordered from that you love? I need to increase my roster of sure fire choices.

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le4t@reddit

Erin McKenna's bakery is great for gluten-free (and vegan) confections; Zabar's for bagels, Kossar's for Bialys, B+B Bakery for cookies my father couldn't stop raving about.

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LBbird24@reddit

These are great thanks!

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NanaSayWhat@reddit

Slippers. Everybody appreciates a new pair of slippers, and they’re not expensive.

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NotDazedorConfused@reddit

Aging parent here: your parents don’t need or want more stuff ( there’re wrestling with how to get rid of all the stuff that we already have). What they want is you - you to call, visit, make time for them.

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Smoopiebear@reddit

Very true but sometimes a flight isn’t in the budget so you improvise with flowers or something.

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NotDazedorConfused@reddit

Or call them on the “telephone” feature of your hand held device ( instead of texting - Boomers like to hear your voice; not practice their typing ) .

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baking-babe@reddit

This is what they want. Make a regular appointment to FaceTime with them each week/month. A pre-planned opportunity for you all to share time together.

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Squee01@reddit

Thank you. I know you are right.

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dodgerecharger@reddit

My Brother and me will fill a food Basket with the good stuff. With brands that my mom wont buy because of the expensive prices. Or we invite them for dinner

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possible-penguin@reddit

We got our dad a Storii subscription last year. 3 times a week they call him with questions we set up abount his life. He'll be answering questions until January this year, and then we will make a book of his life stories.

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Camp_Hike_Kayak@reddit

We got our Mom a monthly subscription to have an arrangement of flowers delivered. She looks forward to it every month and always shares a picture and how much she loves them.

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corvidlover13@reddit

I did this for my folks with a local florist - I looked online until I found one I liked, called them up and they handled everything. They even take the previous month’s vase and reuse it.

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CoffeeOrDestroy@reddit

That’s what do for my mom too. I call it her Christmas and bday present. Flowers once a month subscription.

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No-Foot-261@reddit

Love this!

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mybloodyballentine@reddit

What a great idea!

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GoKartMarlys@reddit

Which florist do you use?

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Camp_Hike_Kayak@reddit

Bloomsey Box. To be fair to the OP's situation it's not a cheap subscription but we split between six kids.

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fuddykrueger@reddit

OP could maybe send a wreath or holiday-themed floral arrangement.

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Ok-Breadfruit-2897@reddit

following this, lol......my mom went to get her prius repaired and they qouted her $4000....she said show me the new ones and bought a new prius without even driving it.....gangster boomers....

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MarcTraveller@reddit

A consumable

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jfitz600@reddit

Digital picture frames where you send pics of you and your family to it for them

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SkeevyMixxx7@reddit

Snacks and gift cards are the way. My folks are in their 80s and they keep trying to get rid of all their stuff.

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AtlanticJim@reddit

A real physical photo album with their cherished memories Kids grandkids travel sports etc.

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Alderscorn@reddit

I literally just call and say merry Christmas. I spent years putting thought into stuff and they never even mention it.

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blue-opuntia@reddit

Commenting so I can remember to read through all these bless

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allamakee-county@reddit

The gift of a goat or a hive of bees to lift a family from poverty through Heifer International.

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leonardoslady@reddit

Food items. My parents are big tea drinkers. I also buy jars of honey. I buy each parent an awesome pair of sneakers that they would never think to buy for themselves. Last year I bought them both Skechers slip on sneakers. They were a hit.

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Moiler62@reddit

Gift card to local movie theater?

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pinkeroo67@reddit

Something for their garden? A gift card from a restaurant that they don't normally go to? Tickets to a show?

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Reader47b@reddit

Mine are gone, but I always got them consumables.

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Alex_Plode@reddit

For about ten years now I've been getting my family a food/beverage of the month. My dad loves peanut butter so I get him a PB of the month. He gets gourmet PB delivered to his door all year long. I get my mom jelly, my in-laws get beer, my wife gets wine, etc. They all love it.

Best part is I have it set to auto-renew. And since I've been doing this so long, it auto-renews with a 20% coupon.

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the_DOS_god@reddit

First thing I thought of with this one:

gif

Not trying to discount you, it can be great.

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AJKaleVeg@reddit

It’s the gift that keeps giving the whole year round Clark.

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fuddykrueger@reddit

I purchased a birthday gift of three months of gourmet cheese as a trial to see if my Dad would enjoy it. When it ended after three months he said I was cheap! That darned gift cost $150 back in 2005! Lol

So I never bothered to do that type of gift again. :)

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Desert_Sox@reddit

I do the same thing with flowers for my Mom.

Every month she gets a bouquet from boug's

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Artichokeydokey8@reddit (OP)

Solid idea. Thanks.

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wicawo@reddit

the question is why do you buy something for someone that doesnt need anything.

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WakeyWakeeWakie@reddit

They like working on their house so Lowe’s gift cards every year

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Jnyanydts@reddit

Experiences instead of physical stuff. Taken them to dinner, or make dinner for them your place or theirs, take them to a show, a festival, antiquing, etc. might be a challenge to “gift wrap” but I think it will be appreciated more.

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bc2rlh@reddit

I've just bought my father a donation to the Salvation Army to pay for a Christmas present and a Christmas meal to a homeless person. I did the same last year (for the first time), and he loved it and had a tear in his eye reading the email saying what was included in the donation and a story of a homeless person benefiting from the charity.

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julieCivil@reddit

Fruit of the month club or Jelly of the month or Nuts of the month. Seriously.

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Poneke365@reddit

I live miles away too so I take the old girl out for lunch when I see her after Christmas and then will go for a wander around the shops, she’s bound to find something she wants. Nothing she has is enough.

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candykhan@reddit

Staying in the closet another year. Luckily, they're quite unsocial in general & we don't live in the same city.

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LocalLiBEARian@reddit

One year, I asked my mom flat-out if she needed anything or had a preferred place for a gift card. The most surprising thing on her list was a new toilet seat! So I bought one, wrapped it to look like a wreath, and put it under the tree. I then had to go buy a second one after Christmas… the first one got hung in the bathroom every year as part of the decorations.

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ThemeDependent2073@reddit

Time, slippers, a book, photo & frame of their grandkids, and if they don't bake anymore make their favorite cookies or fudge. This is what I did for my parents while they were still around.

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Grok1974@reddit

Your parents will be happy to simply have you visit. Don’t stress about gifts, especially if you’re on verge of unemployment. I bet they really just want to see you and they wouldn’t want you stressing about getting them something.

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Artichokeydokey8@reddit (OP)

I know but something little to show my gratitude toward them since we don’t spend the holidays together often enough. They do a lot of nice things for me.

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meowmix412@reddit

Write them a nice long letter listing all the ways you appreciate them, the things you miss about them when you’re not together and some favorite memories…sentimental ones, silly ones, your favorite book they read to you, your favorite meals they made, remembering the love you felt when they cared for you while you were sick, riding the lawnmower with dad, what games y’all played when the electricity went out, any stories you remember them telling you about their childhood/meeting each other, clothing you remember them wearing, pets, parties, how they made holidays special, meaningful conversations you’ve had, helpful advice they’ve given you, etc…

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thanx_it_has_pockets@reddit

I get my mom Bath and Body works lotions and shower gels as she generally uses them enough that about it always time for new ones. I keep up with my dad's authors and see if anyone has a new book coming out. He also likes woodworking so sometimes I get him supplies for that(wood blanks, kits)

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julesfric@reddit

Thanks for the restaurant gift card idea

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BigWeesel@reddit

My parents are in their 80s and I got them some stuff from Spoonful of Comfort and they keep bringing up how much they liked it. It's a bit expensive but neither one cooks anymore and if it saves them from a couple nights either not eating dinner or going to Chili's, it's a win in my book.

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Lucky_Comfortable835@reddit

Your parents just want to spend time with you. That’s the gift.

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303_Bold@reddit

Truth.

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Otherwise_Security_5@reddit

A blanket with photos printed on it that are from good times :)

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kelkely@reddit

Get a family photo session or make yourself get a photo taken with them and load it straight up into a canvas for them

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rwphx2016@reddit

I started buying my dad sausage and cheese logs from Hickory Farms. My brother finally asked me to stop.

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MissApocalypse2021@reddit

I'm getting them a sampler pack of roasted cacao. They both love coffee but neither of them can handle the caffeine anymore. There's a company that sells lots of different aromatic flavors. I love them, and can have a "coffee" in the evenings now. I hope they like them.

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Stefferdiddle@reddit

Experiences. Last year I went home and planned a Finger Lakes wine tour weekend for us. This year I am flying them out to me in SoCal.

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Pierre-Gringoire@reddit

More insurance

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TruthOrTruthy@reddit

Digital picture frames. They love em.

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Background_Tax4626@reddit

I want to say that around my mid-30s, I told my parents, ''No more gift giving'. Every year, it was "What do you want?" and visa-versa. There was no surprise. I also think Christmas is a marketing machine. It's completely lost its meaning. Face it after Halloween Christmas is advertised. Thanksgiving IS the new GexX. So we just got together and enjoyed the day with the meal and so forth. I think it was less of a burden all the way around. This is just my opinion, and if you disagree, have at it.

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RoyalJoke@reddit

Your parents are still alive?

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CornerNo5679@reddit

Your time.

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atomic_chippie@reddit

Gift baskets that I curate from local vendors. (Live on the west coast so marionberry jam, Smith tea, smoked mussels, etc). That way, my mil can keep it all for herself or share with neighbors.

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jjspier@reddit

You are their gift…believe me! ❤️

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AlarmingCorner3894@reddit

I pay for their phone plans all year. Then I usually give them a gas and or grocery gift card. Stuff they can actually use and need.

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Artichokeydokey8@reddit (OP)

They pay my phone plan all year 😳

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CalliopeMKay@reddit

My 36 year old stepdaughter that makes well over 150k a year and owns two homes is still on ours. 😂 Our plan is practically older than Jesus and it's $25 for each additional line, when we kick the bucket the kids and grandkids are probably going to prop us up ala 'Weekend at Bernie's' to keep it going.

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Artichokeydokey8@reddit (OP)

😂

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CalliopeMKay@reddit

Oooooh, your parents are smart! 😂

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After_Preference_885@reddit

They might get a discount because of that, my parents had my adult kid and my brother on their for some kind of group thing

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Artichokeydokey8@reddit (OP)

They do. Me being on their plan goes almost unnoticed

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Straight-Tune-5894@reddit

Are you sure you’re on the right sub lol. Millennials still complaining about getting kicked off the family plan

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gatadeplaya@reddit

Then your gift could be coming off of their phone plan?

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Artichokeydokey8@reddit (OP)

Ha. No. Also they have more money than me. Lots more.

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212-555-HAIR@reddit

Then I wouldn’t suggest that particular option.

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_crucialconjunction_@reddit

One year I got my Dad a few months of lawn service for the summer. Saved him mowing during the hottest months

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warmandcozysuff@reddit

In a similar vein, car wash subscriptions/gift cards are one of my favorites.

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violet715@reddit

Same. They’re both on my phone plan. They do go out to eat a lot as retirees so gifts to their favorite places, or my mom has a favorite local chocolate shop so something from there. Occasionally they will drop a hint of some sort (one year my mom commented how much lighter and easier to use my stepladder was than hers, so I got her the same one).

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buschkraft@reddit

Good wool socks! Seriously, they and I are both old enough to enjoy them and it's a nod to all the sweaters and socks you'd get for Christmas.

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Stephreads@reddit

Consumables. Some old favorite that evokes a memory, then you can reminisce. Lovely way to celebrate a holiday.

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72OverOfficer@reddit

I bought my dad a Cameo from Kareem Abdul-Jabbar. It's pretty cool getting an icon from their era to say hi.

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Pitiful-Complaint-35@reddit

Mine usually suggest a charitable donation. They've made more money in a couple years than i make in 20 years. They spend it just as fast, so don't worry about my inheritance of any of this in the future.

Other than that I tend to get them consumable gifts that have a use and disappear in time. I can't compete with their money or sense of decor.

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WichitaTimelord@reddit

Something to eat or drink, occasionally a book I know I will also like

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marigolds6@reddit

Unique things from their hobbies and interests. GenX has a hidden special power of finding stuff. Not just Amazon or Google shopping, but that odd little store in some corner of the globe that has that rare special item they really want. Internet pioneers coupled with hundreds of hours scouring record bins and second hand stores.

My millennial sister in law cried happy tears because I found an original shooting script from one of her favorite episodes of her favorite show from when she was little. It was $25.

My train loving boomer father in law is getting a reproduction from a direct scan of the original proposal map for the Union Pacific. A little rare map shop in New England had it (for $$$$$) but is making me a high quality reproduction for $30.

Go use that digital/analog super power that is almost unique to our generation.

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Ok_Watercress_7801@reddit

Edibles, the THC kind.

Someone needs to make an advent calendar with THC chocolates or non-chocolate edibles. The last day is a double dose.

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Hot-Yogurtcloset-571@reddit

I'd buy a few for presents!

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Ok_Watercress_7801@reddit

Merry weed-mas!

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notyourmama827@reddit

I'd love that and my parents have passed.

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Ok_Watercress_7801@reddit

My dad always said, the only crime about reefer is that in America, we’ve long been reduced to having to smoke it.

(Production of other, refined means of ingestion has been hampered by the fact that it’s considered illicit/illegal & is harder to achieve discreetly.)

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Artichokeydokey8@reddit (OP)

Oh my god. Yes. Such a good idea.

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Ok_Watercress_7801@reddit

I was thinking it was my million dollar idea… Alas, it’s been done many times.

Still, my late (Silent Generation) father would have loved it. My boomer mother is just now getting into edibles.

If she were a bit more sedentary, I could see that being nice for her, or maybe as nightcap material. As is, she drives around to her various activities quite a bit & I wouldn’t want her behind the wheel, stoned out of her gourd.

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HumanMycologist5795@reddit

You spending Christmas with them for the first time in 10+ years will be gift enough.

But perhaps bringing something unique from where you live may be nice. My aunt and uncle live in Hawaii, so when they visit, they bring something specific to Hawaii.

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festivebum@reddit

Experience and time with you. So tickets to concerts or even comedians. And I bet they would be over the moon if you went with them to the event. Especially because you don’t get home often.

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themewedd@reddit

My gramma used to like fancy jam for her morning toast. Something they could not afford growing up in the depression. Grandpa liked nuts and a specific candy. I got them magazine /newspaper subscriptions when they still read them. Later, i would pay for 3-12 months of a pay channel on their cable. Like HBO/BBC/paramount +. Cheese or fruit of the month club. Don't discount the tiny booze bottles. My relatives liked to "try" different drinks but didn't want to spend 20-30.00 on a bottle. I kept track of what they liked for future gifts.

I used to get the ingredients for cookies or lasagna and give the gift of "time" making the food with them. Dont forget to take pictures! (And clean up after).

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themewedd@reddit

I forgot- when they were at assisted living on a budget, i got a dozen of the little wrapped mini gifts from a chocolate/cheese/fruit places like hickory farm or swiss colony. They could give them away to the staff or friends and it helped them by not having to buy gifts. Plus they got to eat any extras.

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hazysean@reddit

Snacks

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AuntyJulez@reddit

I renew their walmart plus membership every year.

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dicemonkey@reddit

You don’t give your parents gifts because they live far away ?

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Artichokeydokey8@reddit (OP)

It just didn’t make sense for us to be spending money on things we don’t really need and pay for postage to ship across the country. I’ve been away for 16 years. But when we are together it’s different.

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dicemonkey@reddit

Gifts aren’t about “ making sense “ ….and if postage across the US is an issue I don’t know what to tell you.

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Ragus_0520@reddit

You are the gift. When my kids are able to come home, especially around the holidays, that’s all I want. Visual confirmation they are good, great hug and late night chats.

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ExtentFluffy5249@reddit

I used to bake and cook my parents favorite dishes large enough to freeze. They were very happy to have multiple meals of homemade food ready to eat.

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Ok-Elk-8632@reddit

The gift of assistance such as hiring a cleaning service or lawn care. Or perhaps something that has to do with their hobbies such as perennials for their garden or entry to a golf course they’ve never played.

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sameoldstuff@reddit

Calendar of family photos

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Lurky100@reddit

Just a heads up on that…my brother is the only one who had kids and he sends these to all of us. We open presents with my parents. Both of my brothers live out of town. One brother always sends nice gifts that are thoughtful to each recipient. The other brother with kids always just sends a calendar with pics of their family. Every single year. It’s gotten to the point that even my mom (who usually defends him) is starting to get a little offended that they can’t think of a nice personal present to send her. She spends a LOT of time shopping and picking out special gifts for each person in our family, and also spends a significant amount of time and money visiting him in order to babysit her grandchildren. Those calendars are the last thing we all unwrap and we are like…great. Another calendar of his family. I think if he at least sent a little something that was personal to everyone with the calendar we all wouldn’t feel like they are just taking the easy way out. They start to feel very much like “I am sure you will all love looking at my family”, and THAT is your present.

Before I’m blasted, the calendars are nice. I flip through mine to see the pictures before I throw it in the trash. Just make sure you are giving them a little something special that is about THEM.

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WVSluggo@reddit

lol that’s what my girlfriend sent every year until her kids had families and they do it now! C’mon already!

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TGIIR@reddit

Yep, my one sister in law used to send those family calendars every year. What was handy was she’d have everyone’s birthdays, anniversaries, etc., on it. I’d check to make sure I had all the dates on my Contacts list, then calendar went straight in trash. I would have given calendar to Goodwill, but they in no way would have wanted all those pix and personal info given to a stranger.

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JLBF78@reddit

Your story made me giggle and cringe all at the same time.

My husband’s Aunt used to make a family photo calendar for his Grandma. After Grandma would open her calendar, she would pass it around the room for us to all oooh and ahhh at. It took me a couple years to figure out that his Aunt was pulling pics off of our Facebook pages to use for the calendar. It gave me such a weird icky vibe. It also prompted me to really think twice about the pics I’m posting to FB.

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fuddykrueger@reddit

We received a professional framed photo of my dad and his wife as a Christmas gift after they had gotten married. We were not even told about the marriage until about a month after they were married. Lol

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Lurky100@reddit

lol…nice! Hope you put it up in a place you can see it every day! Lol

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fuddykrueger@reddit

Yeah right next to the toilet. 😆

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Moderate_t3cky@reddit

I do this every year for my Father-in-law. I make sure to get the large one with big blank squares on the days so he can fill in all his appointments.

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Poodlepied@reddit

We do that every year with pictures of the grandkids

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sameoldstuff@reddit

Easy gift … always a winner

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Successful_Comfort34@reddit

Experiences. Anything entertaining that they’d enjoy. Since money is a factor, anything free or low cost and fun in their area? We bought in laws tix to a Cirque de Soleil show last year.

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143Fairmont@reddit

I make them dinner and invite my siblings. They absolutely love it.

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HurtsCauseItMatters@reddit

I'm super into geneology and a couple years ago I took each of my parents countries of origin .... well the big ones and found a food thta represented that country and put them in baskets. I don't remember dad's but mom had Irish oat cookies, pretzels, Italian cookies, & French waffle cookies. I found most of them on amazon and she thought it was super thoughtful. It wasn't a perfect representation of all of her background but it was close enough. :)

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RomulanWarrior@reddit

I would buy my parents gift cards to places they like.

It always seemed to work.

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LogicalStomach@reddit

Tickets to a live show. Shows like The Moth, Wife and Death (The Glaucomfleckens), The Flying Karamazov Brothers, or Foil, Arms, and Hog are affordable and multi-ages friendly. There may be a local jazz venue, or chamber music series where the tickets are quite affordable.

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aandrews2080@reddit

Comfy socks. Expensive ones.

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NIL8danarrative@reddit

Handmade pottery ashtray?

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Artichokeydokey8@reddit (OP)

They still have my bird seed cafe I made in wood shop. Ha.

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notmaddog@reddit

A hand written Christmas card

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Fit_Operation_552@reddit

Bourbon

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Individual-Bicycle22@reddit

Take them out and give them a memorable experience with you. Get some pictures taken of you all together so they can look at it and remember the time you had.

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DeezSaltyNuts69@reddit

coffin or cremation vase

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ChartSea2664@reddit

I was going to suggest gift cards to the crematorium. Or at least suggest it from parent to Gen X child for a gift. I’ve spent over 10k in funeral expenses for them. Would’ve come in handy! lol

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Artichokeydokey8@reddit (OP)

😳

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fuddykrueger@reddit

I thought maybe they meant to write coffee with creamer (and the vase meant like a pitcher for the creamer). 😆

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RedditSkippy@reddit

I get my parents their subscription to Sirius.

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tvmakesmesmarter@reddit

My parents are semi-hoarders lol so I like buying them what I call "gifts that go away". It can be candles, lotions, or edible goodies. If I do buy them something that doesn't "go away", I try to make it something small or at least practical. Here are two posts I made on gifting, hope this helps! Five Fancy Food Amazon Giftsets (2024) - hootiepatootie and 8 Great Amazon Gifts for Women (2024) - hootiepatootie

P.S. You going home will probably be the best gift ever!

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Informal_Phrase4589@reddit

A Bundt cake. Flowers.

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Different-Ask-9207@reddit

Mobile/home pedicure, salon/haircut, yard/cleaning services.

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polyester_bride@reddit

I’m the only daughter without kids. This year, I bought my mom’s plane ticket to Lisbon for us to my youngest sister. What she doesn’t know is that I booked us in first class.

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absherlock@reddit

What about a photo in a nice frame to commemorate ypur first Christmas home in 10+ years?

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ZweigleHots@reddit

My adults have young kids who live next door who spend a significant amount of their time hanging out with them - they've had a tough start to life with their mom struggling with addiction killed in a wreck a few years ago, her abusive boyfriend, etc. I've been told don't bother buying stuff for them, buy stuff for the kids. But of course I still buy them things - lots of stocking stuffers, usually one or two bigger items that they want, funny things from my travels, etc. They're both lefties so I buy them lefty things sometimes.

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PlantMystic@reddit

Get stuff they can consume like special food or treats. I do this for my Dad.

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JibbityJabbity@reddit

My mom and her siblings used to pay for their mom's cable for a year.

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OverGas3958@reddit

Time. Take them to a dinner or a museum. They just want our time and attention in the few small spaces we have left for them.

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spidermans_mom@reddit

My parents ask me to do something nice for someone else in their name, so we donate to kids in need. My dad said as he grew up that his bike was his first taste of real freedom. So that’s what we donate. My dad is a righteous dude.

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doghouse2001@reddit

This is the same thing my kids would ask. My answer is the same every year: look at my public Amazon wish list, which is how I plan and prioritize my own purchases. They never do.

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dogmatixx@reddit

A framed photograph of something they will treasure.

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No-Ambition7750@reddit

I pay them an in person visit every few months. I make sure everything is still ok at the homestead and help them out with any home projects that need done.

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Elaborate_Penguin@reddit

Everyone is aging.

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Brave-Perception5851@reddit

Money or gift cards. Inflation has hit hard

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supermouse35@reddit

My mom often said the best gift she ever got was a box of greeting cards for all kinds of different occasions. It included a list of everyone's birthdays and anniversaries, stamps, return address labels, and the dividers for each month so she just had to go to the current month, look at the list, and she had cards ready to go for everyone. She absolutely gushed about it every month.

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Goldenday71@reddit

This has got to be the most perfect gift for my mother. Thank you for commenting!!!!!

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supermouse35@reddit

Glad I could help! :D

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Appropriate_Gap1987@reddit

House shoes are always a nice choice

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BeLikeDogs@reddit

Gift cards for experiences. A great ice cream shop, an interesting market, etc. i used to do that for my mom. Usually those places weren’t set up for it so I would call, pay over the phone, and they would mail it.

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tcogenx@reddit

My parents always say to get them gift cards for their favorite local restaurants which is fine but I have been trying different gifts they can eat. The latest, that my dad loved, was a gift box of candy of his nationality (Polish). He loved it! Especially the candies he hadn’t had since he was a kid. Said it brought back lots of memories.

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Techelife@reddit

I brought my Mom apples from Northern New York and she loved them. I’ve also had a company in Georgia try to sell me extraordinarily-expensive peaches that sounded awesome. Do you think something like that would work?

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NothingGloomy9712@reddit

Comfy slippers, a cosy throw, whatever they can eat, drink, or is practical. <3 mom, but shes 78, doesn't need anymore Knick knack crap.

Also listen to them, ideas can pop up that way. Last year mom said her tea was getting cold by the time she got to drink it. She would make it, use the washroom and by the time she sat down her tea would be cold. So I got her a mug warmer last Christmas, she uses it constantly.

The mug warmer was one of the lower priced gifts, so I got her some chocolates as well, but she uses it daily so I rate it as one of my all time best Christmas gifts to her.

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backroadtrucker@reddit

Good bud

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Ratatoskr_The_Wise@reddit

Make cookies. Bring booze.

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Background-Goose2523@reddit

Last year we got my parents each large electric throw blankets and they absolutely love them!!

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casade7gatos@reddit

Cleaning out my mother’s house after her funeral, I can tell you this: give them happy memories, share them if you can. Travel, museum passes, theater or concert or movie tickets, whatever they might enjoy. Stuff is just stuff, and a lot of us already have too much of it.

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rfmjbs@reddit

Food, theater tickets, nostalgia inducing emails full of cat memes.

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Professional-Ad2849@reddit

Don’t buy things, buy experiences. Take your mom for a spa day. Go golfing with your dad. But at their age (and ours really) nobody needs more stuff. We need memories we can look back on.

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Proud_Ad_8830@reddit

Last year I got my mom a month’s worth of the grocery items I know she’d use. I wrapped up boxes of cheese it’s, cans of tuna, soup, rice, etc. I got some expensive cuts of meats she would never buy herself. I also made a bunch of her favorite meals and packaged them in individual servings she could defrost as she was ready for them.

I told her to use the extra time and money she’d save from shopping to do something fun for herself

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JoyHealthLovePeace@reddit

A beautiful handwritten card with lots of appreciative words. Bonus if you or someone you know made the card; then it’s art.

An updated photo of you and your own family—give them a nice frame the first year, and just keep updating the photo every year.

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SlidingOtter@reddit

Memories. I am in a similar situation, not aging, but have told my children we don't want stuff. For my wife and I, life is about the acquisition of memories (to quote Carson from Downton Abbey). We have told our children to not buy us anything, rather, asked that they make time to do things with us.

So, make plans to do something with them. Since you're about to be unemployed, think of cheap date ideas. Go to the park, stop for coffee or a gelato while out. Sit with them and ask them about their memories from when they were little, memories of their lives before you were born.

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CreatrixAnima@reddit

I’m planning on making some fun little games with stocking stuffers. So their gift gets picked by chance. They always share their presents anyway, so I’ll have some gift cards and some candies and some cookies and some silly little stocking stuff for things like soaps and hand, lotion, and lip balm And them will be associated with a cup. They will throw ping-pong balls into a box that has all the cups in them, and whatever cup their ball ends in will get them the present associated with that cup.

It’s nothing fancy, but it will make the stockings take a little longer and be a little fun and different.

As for presents, in the past, I have gotten them gift certificates nice restaurants, but they’re starting to have mobility issues so now I’m a little bit stuck.

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Machiavvelli3060@reddit

I buy mine Omaha Steaks.

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callmeKiKi1@reddit

Do they have a cause you can donate to in their name?

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Delta31_Heavy@reddit

My dad is 80 and every year for the past 4 Christmas we chip in and get him a very complex Lego set. I’m talking like the Technique set with 5000 pieces. It’s expensive and we siblings and mom chip in but he can work on it for months. He loves stuff like this. We got him a working model V8 engine for him to build. He used to be a gearhead. It keeps his mind going and he loves to show them off

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Geri420_@reddit

Give them a gift certificate to their favorite restaurant!

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strengthchain@reddit

Yeah, consumables arent a bad choice. Also, the gift of time and or help of some kind would be really appreciated. I found years of opened gifts in a closet that probably went ten or fifteen years back that were unused by my parents when I cleaned out their home to sell, so that was probably from their late 70s or early 80s that they seemed to not use any of the things they received.

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OldDudeOpinion@reddit

Anything you know they have that is a little ratty or worn, that they won’t replace on their own because it’s “good enough”. Towels & sheets….pajamas…tea towels…slippers…fleece jacket

Practical things: Have a leaky faucet/toilet repaired by a plumber….have the gutters/roof/windows cleaned….a new stove/range…a new refrigerator/dishwasher/washing machine

Experience things: theater tickets, movie tickets, a hotel weekend away, girls night at a casino

My elderly moms Xmas gifts so far: (mine likes cats which gives me a theme to play with) - Season tickets to our downtown professional broadway theater - for both of us = 6 dates with Mom during the year - Cat earnings - Slippers - Cat Puzzle - cat socks - Homemade vintage family baked goods (Lefse, Krumkaka, Sandbakkles, all the old lady hard labor Norwegian stuff nobody knows how to make anymore - it’s nostalgic for her, and has “made with love” energy. )

Good Slippers Homemade Lefse & Norwegian family cookies/sweets

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fairyflaggirl@reddit

Us kids buy a roll of stamps. She hates buying them and she sends lots of cards all year. Pay for her newspaper, restaurant gift certificates, one year I gave her a Walmart gift certificate for $200, she was tickled. I've sent flowers, Christmas sprays. One year my brother paid 1/2 of her property taxes. I pay for her cell phone all year and told her it's her birthday and Christmas.

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succored_word@reddit

Buy them services or gift cards for dinner, etc. they don’t need “things” but would appreciate help.

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Hatdude1973@reddit

I send my parents a Honeybaked ham. They love it.

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Dynamiccushion65@reddit

I think you go with unlimited time spent and ready to ask a lot of questions about their youth so you get to know them better. Really focus on them as a person so they can finally say my kiddo sees me. Give them a card that spells out the few times you thought about what they said to you when you were growing up that those words now come back to you in a supportive way.

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FredTrail@reddit

I used to make my grandmother a week's worth of home cooked meals and freeze them. In reality it was 2 or more weeks because I did large portions. I'd make 3 different recipes. She loved it and looked forward to it every year.

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elphaba00@reddit

My grandma didn't have a lot of money, so we'd go to the grocery store and load up on canned goods and food for her. We'd also make sure to buy plenty of dog food for her terrier. She loved it.

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TXQuiltr@reddit

What a wonderful gift.

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PlasticPalm@reddit

I used to bake my grandmother's recipes, for my grandmother.

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TinLizzy-1909@reddit

Anything consumable with a small item that represents the gift. A pass to the zoo, with a small inexpensive wind chime that has a zoo animal on it. A gift basket of cheese with a cutting board. The recipient gets something to enjoy which is the big part of the present, but then something small that lets them remember the present.

Or depending on the personality I used to love to give magazine subscriptions (I know it's not a thing now, but it used to be), the the person gets a present every month. When I was married I did this a few times, and every month when my husband got the magazine I would hear him singing "happy birthday to me". His birthday lasted all year and it made him smile.

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TXQuiltr@reddit

I like to take my mom for a mani-pedi, then lunch or dinner. Now that she's been diagnosed with long covington, we usually skip lunch since she can't eat a lot of different foods.

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amanda2399923@reddit

Time with you.

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Cherry3838@reddit

Take them out to a nice meal. Or evem breakfast at a favorite spot. They will enjoy the company and the moment more than a gift.

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lunicorn@reddit

Here are some ideas from the low or no money side of things. They may not be as prettily packaged as some other suggestions, but also won't take up a lot of space. It's more a gift of time and expertise. Some of these are based on a trip I just did and things I helped an aging parent with. YMMV depending on your parents' expertise and interests. You might write these up as something like those coupons we gave parents when we were kids.

A gift certificate for a few car washes, or cleaning out and detailing their car(s) to the extent that you can.

A nicer version of something they have (that's still not real expensive) and they probably wouldn't splurge for themselves. Do they have an old can opener that's getting harder to use? Find a good one that meets their current abilities (arthritis an issue? time for electric instead of manual?). By upgrading something they have, they're not adding something new to the mix.

I've seen homemade meals mentioned a few times here. Look for gifts you can make in a jar, like cookie mixes in a jar. They can look real pretty with the different layers of ingredients in a mason jar, topped off with fancy decorations.

Online privacy checkup. What do their settings on Google and Facebook and Roku look like? How much data sharing are they doing? How much are they being tracked? Can you opt them out of targeted advertising on some of the major platforms?

Online security checkup. Are their passwords written in a book labeled passwords? Is two-factor authentication on? Do they have a password manager? Have they changed their passwords at all in the last few years?

Online questions. Answer any questions they have about why the above is important and questions about what they see online in general. Help them recognize scams, including not clicking the sponsored results for a search for ebay customer service, for example.

How safe is their house? Do they need grab bars? Anything you can help install? Anything to help repair? My parent was thrilled at having me be the one to go under the kitchen sink to help replace the faucet.

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repwatuso@reddit

I promise you, they are just happy to spend time with you. Best gift will be a genuine hug. As a GenX empty nester, I honestly can same the same for me. My folks have everything they need, the few things they would want, they get. They always appreciate when I hit the local chocolatier for her chocolate covered cherries and his peanut butter fudge. We sit in the living room and hang out just catch up on life. I'm fortunate they live 15 minutes away. The elderly world gets smaller as they age, loosing friends and family along the way. I'm the last of their childern that live locally.

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Reach-forthe-stars@reddit

I make a donation or have a rosary made in their name. They love that….

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Righteous_Fury224@reddit

A well stocked gift hamper filled with yummy treats that your folks truly enjoy.

That's always work for me when giving gifts for elderly relatives.

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Smoopiebear@reddit

My mom loves to sew so I’ve gotten her various sewing classes like quilting etc.

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Smoopiebear@reddit

Food. Fancy pasta and sauce. I did “cheese of the month club” a couple times- that was a hit. House plants, if they are into those.

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ktulenko@reddit

Time with you

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cherrycokelemon@reddit

I'd make my parents Enchiladas for presents, then I'd divide them into twos and freeze them so they could each have an Enchilada for breakfast. They liked an Enchilada with an egg.

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CreativeMusic5121@reddit

Well, you could ask them.

I send my mom and stepdad Omaha Steaks each year, they love it.

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CianGal13@reddit

I take mine to dinner. Or cook them a special meal. They like that and we get to spend time together

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Artistic_Quantity446@reddit

I would like new towels and bath mats - expensive ones so I don’t have to buy them.

Gift certificates for oil changes - hate paying for that

I would like someone else to pay for all the streaming services

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oldguy76205@reddit

My dad just turned 90 and is assisted living. My siblings and I pitched in and got him a "Cameo" from a favorite athlete. I couldn't be there, but I heard it was a big hit.

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Peepaw50@reddit

You can't go wrong with food, cash and tickets they wouldn't buy for themselves

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poopypants206@reddit

Thankfully in my family once you turn 18, no more presents. You're an adult so go buy what you want.

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Artichokeydokey8@reddit (OP)

I mean, that’s basically how it’s been for awhile but I want to bring something with me when I come visit.

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Land-Dolphin1@reddit

I'll give it a whirl aiming for something on a budget they will use.

1) If they are avid readers, books are a great choice. Can you ask if there are any books they have on their wishlists (or ask one parent on behalf of the other)? Many people love a great autobiography, history book or mystery.

2) If they have pets, a few fun toys and treats

3) These are specific for conservation-oriented people:

- The Blueland foam soap tablets smell great and reduce plastic waste. Love these!

- Wool dryer balls reduce the amount of time in the dryer and save on utility bills. You can search on Etsy for the store bhmalpacas and look for "XL Wool Felted Dryer Ball For Laundry" They are charming and practical.

4) Coffee, teas, chocolate, jellies, sauces, and olive oil are all nice gifts. Trader Joes is a fun place to go for these.

Finally, a suggestion: Inquire about their interesting histories, especially fun stories from their childhoods (if that seems like a safe topic). Most people love recounting their hijinks as teens, adventures, etc

I hope you have a great visit.

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Tinkeybird@reddit

Gift cards to their favorite restaurants. They don’t want anymore stuff at 85 but love eating out.m

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NoahsKnob3202@reddit

Consumables are my go to. Gift certificates for services they use (I.e., haircut, manicure). Really like getting tickets to events (plays, sporting games) While less personal, you can pay a bill for them (electric, phone, gas)

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ButtersStochChaos@reddit

Visits!

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Zabycrockett@reddit

Two suggestions based on what my 84 yr old Mom asked for:

1) Our presence. She didn't need "any more trinkets". But wanted to see us more- easy peasy

2). maybe take care of some of the things that need doing to keep up the house.

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ytown@reddit

Socks, coffee mugs, and kitchen towels are good go-to gifts. Low cost, usually useful, and if you’re lucky you can find a design/theme/pic that really resonates with them.

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LowCommunication9517@reddit

I give luxury soap bars to everyone. Once it's used up, it's not adding to clutter. My family loves these fancy soap gifts.

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WrongWayCorrigan-361@reddit

In addition to all said above, I have gotten some coffee table books and drink tumblers. I get them from the favorite sports teams or universities

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billymumfreydownfall@reddit

An experience/event while you are home. A concert, play.

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Legitimate-March9792@reddit

A fancy box of pears from the Harry and David catalog. They have different sets. Some are paired with chocolates or cheese etc….

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Emily_Postal@reddit

Gift card to a favorite restaurant.

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bexy11@reddit

An orphaned elephant from Sheldrick Wildlife Trust in Kenya. I’ve “adopted” one for each of my family members for like ten years now.

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Forsaken-Refuse-1662@reddit

Guft card is the way to go

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ObsceneJeanine@reddit

Nothing. You give them memories they can cherish when you are not around. I would love to get silly films from my grandkids every year but I don't. I would love to spend some time with them but we're 1000 miles apart. I haven't seen them in 5 yrs and I probably will die before ever seeing them again.

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MoonoverMaui@reddit

Have you voiced this to your children? I hope you get a million more because memories with your grandchildren.🙏🏻

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Vic-westcoast619@reddit

Pictures are the most sentimental and least expensive gift you can give. Your local CVS has many ways you can frame or make si many creative ideas of special family pictures.

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elizajaneredux@reddit

Framed photo of the family, or of your parents when they were dating/early in marriage.

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SkipInExile@reddit

Alcohol 👍

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YellowBreakfast@reddit

Mine Dad loves LEGO. He won't buy a set for himself but loves them as gifts and to build them.

Also Ma got the sunflowers last year form the grandkids and for the first time in her life built a LEGO set.

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GOINSER1@reddit

Dinner

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MatthewnPDX@reddit

Can you spend additional time with them? That’s probably what they want.

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jarethmckenzie@reddit

Pictures of you, kids, pets, etc. Give them a tour of your life in the past 10 years.

If you want it to be REALLY special, put them in a photo album. So they can physically flip through it.

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arianrhodd@reddit

I bought my dad a t-shirt that says "I yell because I care" and one that said "It's not an empty nest until they get their crap out of the basement."

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Parabolicnoun@reddit

I put a basket together of things they can use. Coffee, wine, cheese etc.. Toss in a gift card and wrap it all up

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TheLawOfDuh@reddit

My aging mother asked a few years back that we donate somehow that does good for others. It’s turned into something fun for us. We try eating out some during the holidays. We always try to engage with our server. Whenever a server divulges information that indicates they having financial problems, we know we’ve found one of our benefactors. We tip VERY generously as my mother (& her mother) would be proud to do. We have never specifically told any family or friends exactly how we’re helping others and we try our best to keep it private inside the restaurants. There have been a few times where our server hunted us down to say thanks. Even had one girl crying for a bit. None of it is necessary. We just like knowing where our help is going & that it’s more direct than going through some charity. We encourage anyone looking for a different way to help others during the holidays to try this approach.

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Random-TBI@reddit

Assuming they drink, some sort of wine or spirits?

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Porcupine__Racetrack@reddit

That last few years we’ve all gone to a local live theater show. Christmas Carol!

Might switch it up and see the local Philharmonic Orchestra this year or something.

We go out to dinner too. None of us need anything and it’s nice to spend time together

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kkcita@reddit

Little jars of jam

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sickofmakingnames@reddit

Books and/or homemade sweets.

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bakewelltart20@reddit

The parent who lives in a faraway country will probably just get a card, maybe a small local thing from the country I live in, if I can find anything I can afford.

The parent who lives closer will get chocolate, maybe a small fruit cake too, new pyjamas.

I'm not well off either.

I stopped 'doing' Christmas a few years ago, I don't have kids so I don't have to do anything, I often don't.

Modern commercial Christmas is just too much pressure to buy buy buy, it's not actually enjoyable. I don't expect presents, If I get any they're small things.

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DukeOfWestborough@reddit

Socks

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SailorJupiterLeo@reddit

Take them out, call often, visit, and maybe a outdated thing--write them a letter.

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FAHQRudy@reddit

Fairly large gift card to the local cinema.

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Eyeroll4days@reddit

Shady pines ma, shady pines

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Ennuiology@reddit

I’ve never gone wrong with buying a family a goat via Heifer International. God I hope they aren’t a scam because my mom’s gift is going to be sending a girl to school.

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O_o-22@reddit

My mom likes to have experiences more than gifts. So a day out doing something new and food after is fine by her. She will always take fine chocolate tho lol. Dad is much tougher to buy things for. I usually go for gift cards so he can pick what he wants at some place like a golfing store or Home Depot/Lowe’s and a few different food places he likes.

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Sea_Marble@reddit

Experiences. Take them to a concert, sports event, show, etc. I absolutely hate musicals, but my parental loves them. So once a year I take her to one. She’s ridiculously happy and spends a lot of time talking about all the ones we’ve been to. Those are experiences and time with her that I’ll carry those memories forever.

The thing of it is, these experiences don’t even have to cost money, it’s building the memories with the other person that are important.

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shesgotdogs@reddit

Dig up an old photo that could be improved with modern photo editing and touch it up, print, frame it. I did this with a great shot that had closed eyes and a glare and it looks like a professional took it. Parents were highly impressed and it cost me $20

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rosemama1967@reddit

I had an old negative of her family from the late 1800s that I scanned, cleaned up & had printed to frame. Priceless!

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VampyKitten5@reddit

I got my parents dinner and a show (with us). They want experiences and to be able to share them.

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stuck_behind_a_truck@reddit

For my FIL, who lives 20 minutes away and is now twice a widower, he vastly prefers time together. We often go to local plays preceded or followed by a meal.

For my Dad and his wife, who are across the country, I do find Harry & David to be reliable. I buy something they can share because my 5 siblings and 19 assorted nieces and nephews will visit over Christmas week.

For my mother, my gift is no contact. Perhaps someday she’ll develop as a human, but around me she can only continue and practice emotional incest. I take that temptation away from her.

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SmarTpantsTheOnly1@reddit

I usually make my mom her mom's favorite cookies. And we remember my Grams.

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dutchoboe@reddit

Experiences - Mom and I are going to get tamales tomorrow - she doesn’t have to drive and we get good food

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Efficient-Eye-4245@reddit

my family has a strict pajama gear only christmas tradition. that way no one feels slighted, it's inexpensive and who doesn't love cozy pj's in winter. everyone usually gets a pair of pjs, a pair of socks, and an inexpensive cozy little blanket. we have yet to have a bad christmas. and sometimes the pj's are really funny.

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ArmadilloDays@reddit

Stuff that doesn’t need to be stored or dusted.

Think in terms of transience - experiences are great (tickets to something, a meal, a trip), or foodstuffs and other consumables that will be gone soon.

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SumoHeadbutt@reddit

Aging parents don't want more stuff or clutter, they are already downsizing. Warm clothes like sweaters but those can backfire if they don't like the look

Experiences, food, gift cards for their favorite restaurants.

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SmearingFeces@reddit

Headstones 🪦

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NerdyComfort-78@reddit

Contribute to a charity they like.

[-]

BiscuitsPo@reddit

Good coffee

[-]

MaybeNotALunchbox@reddit

We have been buying my in-laws gift cards to their favorite grocery store and did so for my husband’s grandmother until she died. NEVER a complaint from anyone because they can now get the fancy stuff or brand name and not worry. Just send it in a nice card or one the kids/grandkids made.

[-]

JK30000@reddit

Gift certificates / gift cards for hair cuts, manicures, Massages, grocery store, gas station, restaurants in town, etc.

[-]

Emergency-Ad-3350@reddit

Not sure about this year, but last year I got my mom a towel warmer. It’s big enough for blankets too.

She loves it

[-]

UrbanFuturistic@reddit

My parents tell me what they want/need, and they get that. Sure, it's predicable, and they know what's coming, but it avoids buying them something they don't need/want/like.

[-]

Time_Aside_9455@reddit

Consumables or experiences.

Fancy coffee/tea/wine, cheeses, chocolates, candles.

Little extras they normally wouldn’t buy for themselves but would be delighted to receive.

[-]

GenXer-Bitch@reddit

Give them your time. Bring snacks & board games, and just hang out!

[-]

WilmaFlintstone73@reddit

This is a great idea.

[-]

Beauphedes_Knutz@reddit

Do they have grandkids through you? No matter how kitschy, they will love it. Most of our children are older and able to put more thought into it

[-]

pt57@reddit

Idk, if my kid was about to be unemployed and coming for the holiday, I’d tell them not to do a gift.

[-]

WilmaFlintstone73@reddit

My thoughts exactly.

[-]

truemore45@reddit

Ok team.... I have found the gift they really like. W E E D.

Been getting for my mom for last 3 years. She absolutely loves it and has become a weed snob. But she is happy all the time. 80+ year old stones are the fucking best.

[-]

Vlad_Von_Coomerstein@reddit

Pre pay for their funeral/cremation costs. It’s pragmatic and one less headache to deal with when they pass.

[-]

Smotheredsteak@reddit

I buy them gift certificates to an online garden nursery. They are gardeners and they love it.

[-]

Embarrassed-Pepper-5@reddit

I donate to a charity of their choice. Usually Toys for Tots as my dad is a marine

[-]

WilmaFlintstone73@reddit

Oorah and tell your dad thank you from me for his service (daughter of a deceased Marine).

[-]

Embarrassed-Pepper-5@reddit

❤️ semper fi

[-]

Jaxinspace2@reddit

Donations to their favorite charity, gift card to a restaurant they enjoy. Anything that they would like to do. I my parents on a riverboat that had an included meal that they enjoyed. I have them tickets to a train that also had a meal that took them into the mountains. Ask a friend of theirs if they have any ideas.

[-]

Historical-Hiker@reddit

If you have any kids, have them make a craft.

[-]

MinuteElectronic1338@reddit

I usually give dry soup mixes I find at grocery outlets. I’m hoping to diy mason jar soup mixes this year if I have time!

[-]

TeaVinylGod@reddit

Framed photos of the grandkids or take them to a nice dinner.

My mom is 87 and is trying to declutter, she does not need any more figurines.

[-]

NastyOlBloggerU@reddit

Photo of you and the partner/cats/dogs/fish whatever in a frame. Cheap and cheerful but meaningful as well.

[-]

jlhinthecountry@reddit

We give donations to their favorite charities in their names.

[-]

round_a_squared@reddit

My mom and her husband are having trouble getting out and doing things for themselves these days. Gift cards for meal and grocery delivery were greatly appreciated. Mom always loves her favorite flowers on a special occasion too.

[-]

Final-Beginning3300@reddit

I love to get them things like nice blankets, pajamas, sweat suits, robe, slippers. Luxury comfort items I guess. Otherwise they're wearing stuff from 1990

[-]

Glum_Apartment_4454@reddit

My mom loves getting a fresh floral holiday centerpiece for dining table.

[-]

starfish1114@reddit

Cookies. Everyone likes cookies.

[-]

ExaminationNo9186@reddit

It isnt qlways about buying a physical gift.

Go visit them if you can.

If you can't, use skype or zoom or facetime them.

[-]

Diligent_Squash_7521@reddit

Give them IOUs or “gift cards” to do things for them that they can’t do anymore. Shopping, yard work, painting, taxiing them around for a day.

[-]

Matty1138@reddit

My dad always appreciated having a clean car, so one year I gave him and my stepmom gift cards to a nice car wash here in town. As far as I know, they used them/enjoyed them/whatever.

Dad also really liked going to the movies, so another year, I got him and my stepmom a gift package to a nice movie theater that had just opened up. Tickets to a movie, popcorn, snacks, drinks, the whole deal. As far as I know, it was never used, and may be still sitting in a box or a drawer somewhere today.

Go figure.

[-]

mnigro@reddit

Tickets to a show.

[-]

SilkySyl@reddit

I come over and make her dinner on Sundays. On her birthday or Christmas, I have bought her rechargeable heated jackets/poncho and socks. (She gets cold a lot.) She also likes a hair appointment or time at the spa. Just to be pampered by me or someone else is what she loves. Dad has been gone for many years, so I have no gift advice for a father.

[-]

big_daug6932@reddit

Always need slippers and robes and gift cards to the movies and restaurants

[-]

SokkaHaikuBot@reddit

^Sokka-Haiku ^by ^big_daug6932:

Always need slippers

And robes and gift cards to the

Movies and restaurants

^Remember ^that ^one ^time ^Sokka ^accidentally ^used ^an ^extra ^syllable ^in ^that ^Haiku ^Battle ^in ^Ba ^Sing ^Se? ^That ^was ^a ^Sokka ^Haiku ^and ^you ^just ^made ^one.

[-]

theturnipshaveeyes@reddit

Experiences they’ve never had but perhaps you recall them mentioning as being of interest to them. Arranging such a thing can result in something beautiful and memorable for all involved.

[-]

lalachichiwon@reddit

An experience together

[-]

beckybooboo1978@reddit

My parents always say, “if I want something, I’ll buy it myself”, and they do. I never have a clue what to get.

[-]

smoke2957@reddit

Gift certificates for restaurants or activities you know they enjoy, movie, live theater or experiences, stuff for their hobbies

[-]

Dull-Geologist-8204@reddit

Make them a coupon book to do things they really like to do that you promise to do with them or for them. It can be anything from going fishing to dog sitting or what not.

[-]

North-Question-5844@reddit

I’m guessing if you’re about to be “unemployed” your parents want you to save your money and not buy them anything. I wouldn’t want my son/daughter to buy me anything at my age if they were losing their job! Spend time with them, look at old pictures, talk about good times.

[-]

the-bees-sneeze@reddit

Time together. Could be cooking them dinner, doing an activity, tickets, promise of future activities (like one of those coupon books we made as kids). Homemade stuff if you have a talent, or food.

[-]

Idrisdancer@reddit

Consumables. The things they might not buy for themselves.

[-]

FoolishFriend0505@reddit

Care packages. Buy them the shit they use everyday. Non-perishable food, toiletries, etc.

[-]

MysteriousSyrup6210@reddit

The gift of your time and love. Ten years is a long time, you all have a lot of love to give each other now. My son gave me a gift of access to his Hulu account favorite shows he knew I would like and ones we had watched when he was young, the simpsons. Something thoughtful that you shared and can both use now is a really nice gift.

[-]

MsMisty888@reddit

Fun food. Like olives, cheeses, beef jerkey, pickles, coffee, steaks, or fresh salmon or feta.

[-]

Belbarid@reddit

Dad gets a cigar and a bottle of brandy. Mom gets a Riesling

[-]

Jabberwock890@reddit

My mom wants a “do not disturb” sign on her bedroom door and a sleep mask. To many mother fuckers are bothering MA while she watches her shows. She recently retired so now she’s home and wants peace and quiet.

[-]

terra_technitis@reddit

Old people tend to like meat and cheese trays, fruit baskets, and wine. Basically consumable indulgences.

[-]

oldrthndrt@reddit

Check their appliances, for example my mom's vacuum is a huge, heavy clunker from the 1980's, she can barely lift it. Chances are if theyre aging so is some of their stuff

[-]

krkrkrkrf@reddit

I am a firm believer in gifting high quality nuts. Whitley peanuts and Great Buffalo Pecan Company are my two favorites. People like to snack and nuts provide high protein which is often much needed by older people.

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OnionTruck@reddit

I just send a flower centerpiece every year. I forget what they're called. The thing meant for the middle of the dining table. It has flowers, pinecones, holly, red ribbons, and usually candles.

[-]

-karou-@reddit

I buy my parents Omaha stesks for Christmas, and dried fruits/nuts or a big tin of popcorn for birthdays and Mothers/Fathers day.

[-]

disqeau@reddit

Speaking as an aging parent (or step-parent), we’ve finally broken the kids of giving us anything material. What we ask for is help setting up the gazebo shade, help moving the desk or bookcase to the other room, a fun afternoon with the grandkid. Non-“stuff” gifts are the answer.

[-]

Honest_Satisfaction6@reddit

My brothers and I get them things that make day to day life a little easier. Last year was one of those robotic vacuums. I'm not sure it helped that much.

[-]

Useful_Badger6021@reddit

As a gen ex I'd like a 12 pack of IPA , from local brewery

[-]

MakeItAll1@reddit

Groceries. I’m getting my mom a lot of her favorite Progresso soups.

[-]

acb1971@reddit

I live in a tiny little apartment. there is nothing I want or need. I want experiences. Going for a hike with me is way better than another sweater or something. I want my car detailed, I want my eyebrows waxed, I want my activities registration fees paid.

[-]

Snarkan_sas@reddit

One year we got them a Firestick and 1 year subscriptions to Netflix and Hulu. They travel a lot still in their 80s and don’t have cable because they’re away so much. They like the Firestick because they can take it with them.

[-]

The_Norsican@reddit

I give consumables. Gift cards to go out to eat, for example. She doesn't need anything else that sits on a shelf and collects dust.

[-]

TripsOverCarpet@reddit

This has been me for a while now. I don't want gifts that will just collect dust because I hate dusting. Past 5 years I have been trying to de-clutter this house, but the packrat I married just collects more crap.

[-]

notyourmama827@reddit

I thought I was my husband's only wife...🤣😮‍💨

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TripsOverCarpet@reddit

Are you telling me he has TWO houses to collect crap in?!

[-]

Padresfan_douchebag@reddit

can't go wrong with weed.

[-]

Artichokeydokey8@reddit (OP)

If only my dad would try it. His wife would love that though.

[-]

Wetschera@reddit

It comes in beverages. It can be eaten. It’s available at cafés. I’ve been to several.

I wouldn’t try blowing smoke in his ear, though.

[-]

soaringrabbit@reddit

Indica bath bombs.

[-]

Ronantula@reddit

Wait… what? Are they for aces/pains? Sounds amazing…

[-]

elphaba00@reddit

My mom got herself a medical marijuana card so it's actually cheaper for her and my dad to buy it than me.

[-]

Finding_Way_@reddit

I think they really love time with us.

And often still like to show their friends that their 'child' is home.

So treating them to lunch out can be a very nice thing, and telling them that they're welcome to invite a couple of friends. A huge treat for them, which of course I wouldn't call a " gift " is to do the above after going to church, or one of their regular activities with them.

Another thing is to take some pictures of yourself or yourself with your family or friends where you live, send them to Shutterfly or some other processing center and have them put into a book. Give that to them. They will love 'seeing' your life... Pictures of you at work, at an activity you go to, with a friend, at a favorite local spot, etc.

[-]

lushspice@reddit

I get tickets for a show/ movie that we can see together. The gift of lunch and an afternoon together makes my mom super happy.

[-]

noisician@reddit

Maybe see if they’d be ok with a few coupons for you going to their house for the day and: doing laundry, or vacuuming, or yard work, or shopping (they pay), or cook them a big meal (their groceries), or other chores. And maybe they’ll also just like you spending that time there.

[-]

tipyourwaitresstoo@reddit

Lottery tickets with a fun, silly, creative card and holder. It’s cheap, quirky enough to be cool, and imagine if someone wins!

[-]

asyouwish@reddit

Consumables.

We bought them

Netflix in the DVD era (but couldn't make them understand to mail the DVD back)
Paid the cable/internet bill for a few months
Gift certificates for salon visit
Gift cards for restaurants
Magazines and other subscriptions

[-]

What_Next69@reddit

My dad would cherish it if I print out a certificate stating that I made a donation in his name to the Human Fund.

[-]

tk42967@reddit

My inlaws are retired and on a fixed income. We buy them gift cards to various restaurants.

[-]

Lovethatjourney4mee@reddit

Same. We also do gift cards for Netflix and other streaming services.

[-]

arcinva@reddit

This and we've also done other things that are treats for them, like mani/pedi for mom or massage for dad, etc.

[-]

rmpbklyn@reddit

gift card to their fav restaurant or broadway show

[-]

Impossible_Ad_4883@reddit

Tickets to the symphony or local music concert. Even better if you can find an amateur music ensemble with free admission- some of those are quite nice. Maybe take them to dinner first.

[-]

AmyAransas@reddit

This is what my parents wanted in their later years, “only experiences.” With them gone, It means we were making treasured memories up to the end.

[-]

Lemonsnoseeds@reddit

If I hadn't seen my kid for ten years their presence would be enough.

[-]

Artichokeydokey8@reddit (OP)

I’ve been home. Just not for the holidays. I was just there two months ago.

[-]

Patient_Character730@reddit

My mom owns a TV that is like a dinosaur. It's probably two decades old and it's massive and heavy. I told her that my husband and I would like to take her to Costco and pick out a new TV for Christmas. She agreed. My husband will set it up and get it going for her before we leave. It's a gift that makes everyone happy.

[-]

Dry-Praline-3043@reddit

I give my mom a weekend trip every year for Christmas and for her birthday. She really just wants to spend time with me, and I'll have the memories when she's gone.

If you're looking to limit your spending because of your work situation, you could do a big coupon for a weekend home visit with a blank space for them to fill in the date of your future visit. You could get creative with a big piece of poster board and draw or collage all the things y'all will do together when you come home. Parents like our artwork no matter how old we get. . . or maybe my mom's just very good at pretending.

[-]

scarlettohara1936@reddit

When I was about 12 I broke the lid to an antique candy bowl that my mother loved and displayed on a coffee table. I felt terrible and though my mother was angry and disappointed, handled it quite calmly. I never really forgot about that though. Lately, my son and I are collecting uranium glass and radium watches and it has brought to mind the broken candy dish. I slyly worked the candy dish into conversation and found another of the exact one I broke. I will be giving her that for Christmas. I can't wait to see the look on her face!

[-]

BlindGus@reddit

The best gift we gave my MIL and FIL was a gift card tree. We put about 10-15 gift cards for restaurants, car washes, and theaters. We also added a bunch of lottery tickets. They talked about it the entire year. They even had a " Tree Night" every couple weeks where they would put the tree on the table and decide what they were going to do. Might not work for everyone, but they totally enjoyed it.

[-]

Unfair-Pomegranate25@reddit

Nothing. They’re boomers who support Trump and have plenty of money. I’m trans and I need all of my money.

[-]

GenX-ModTeam@reddit

No sexism, racism, or other forms of hate speech. This includes threats or advocating violence in any form.

Speech that targets someone based on race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, gender identity, or other personal attributes.

[-]

Jsmith2127@reddit

This year my mil requested replacements for the makeup, and skin care, that she's running out of, which I bought. She then forgot that she asked for that, then told my husband, that she needed a new vacuum, so we got that, as well.

Sometimes I just get her gift boxes of her favorite flavored decaf coffee, because you can't buy it in stores

[-]

Voltron1993@reddit

Experiences. I bought my mom an adult ed pottery class near her home. Also got her 2 tickets to a local broadway musical touring show. And some gift cars to local restaurants.

[-]

DocCEN007@reddit

Dinner

[-]

Peterthinking@reddit

A small fire extinguisher for the kitchen or garage. They do expire and most people don't even have one.

[-]

qning@reddit

I just ordered my dad a construction jack. I bought it after I bought one for myself.

Irwin and Dewalt both sell one. I went with the Dewalt because it can be foot operated which will help with arthritic hands.

What is this for? anything in the house that needs to be lifted. Dropped something under the sofa and can’t reach it, use this to lift the thing.

[-]

Doe79prvtToska@reddit

My dad just told me cash is always good 😁

[-]

lacontrolfreak@reddit

A photo calendar with all of their favourite people featured.

[-]

BklynQueen@reddit

For my mother’s last Christmas, she couldn’t tolerate any food or flowers or anything scented so I got her a blanket with positive affirmations on it from Amazon. She absolutely loved it. My stepdad did too and he kept taking hers whenever I took her to her drs appointments so she had me buy him one of his own, lol.

[-]

MsbsM9@reddit

My dad loves those calandres that have trivia questions.

[-]

Organized_Khaos@reddit

Experiences. What they really want is your time, and to make memories. Concert tickets and lunch, sporting events or hikes, a weekend trip with you and a parent (or a parent-sibling trip) where you do adult things without kids, like a beach, national park, Vegas, a museum, etc. Whatever they might enjoy with you mutually, or whatever they’ve said they’d like to see. Take them, pay, do it together, and take tons of selfies.

[-]

Heeler2@reddit

I usually send a holiday flower arrangement or holiday plant.

[-]

batshitcrazyfarmer@reddit

No stuff. Just give the gift of time, and reach out to help with anything they need help with. Set up a game of cards, puzzles, etc., and just spend time.

[-]

PNWest01@reddit

dinner theater tickets

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BudgetIndependence34@reddit

Each year I sift through digital photos from the past 12 months and select a number of them to create a calendar with pics of the grandkids (my three plus my nephew) for my dad. He loves it! Also do gift cards for food (he often takes the kids out to eat). Considering upgrading his Kindle this year as well, or maybe getting him a vacuum that doesn't weigh 500 lbs (his is ridiculous)...that gift would be a joint one from my sister and me.

[-]

Puppiessssss@reddit

Your presence. If you wanna bring like some tamales or ham or smoked turkey or some appetizers desserts whatever do it but I think your presence is what they want.

[-]

jopasm@reddit

This year I'm doing subscriptions to magazines they like but I know they won't get for themselves.

[-]

Soft-Juggernaut7699@reddit

Grocery store gift card. Who can't use grocery

[-]

Judgy-Introvert@reddit

My mom loves British TV so I got her an annual subscription to BritBox. I’ve also done gift card from Amazon and items from Germany, as that’s where she’s from.

[-]

deadlyspoons@reddit

Be leery of online services with logins and passwords and installers and apps and whatnot. Britbox on my AppleTV, for example, occasionally "breaks" and needs the password. PITA for me, impossible for my folks, who are almost helpless when tech support is needed.

[-]

Judgy-Introvert@reddit

My mom’s pretty tech savvy so I’m not worried.

[-]

Piktoggle@reddit

Streaming services are a great gift, especially for some of the second tier ones that folks might not buy on their own.

[-]

Artichokeydokey8@reddit (OP)

I need these as gifts for me! 😬

[-]

damageddude@reddit

Nothing, but we were Jewish, lol. My mother only cared about visits/trips out, grandchildren, meals out and little things she needed.

[-]

tcrhs@reddit

Get a digital photo frame and fill it full of family photos. They will love it.

[-]

beckstermcw@reddit

I used to listen very carefully when on the phone or on a visit to my husband’s parents. Turns out you will hear lots of little things they wish they had or want to replace.

[-]

LavenderGwendolyn@reddit

Framed pictures of the grandkids (if applicable) are always a hit. When my kids were still at home, we used to make those photo calendars. It’s inexpensive, and they get a new picture or set of pictures every month.

[-]

baldfellow@reddit

For years I gave customized family calendars, with family pictures, birthdays, anniversaries, etc. for all the family members. There are (or used b to be) sites where you upload your pics, submit your list of "holiday dates," and there you are.

[-]

nanboya@reddit

Nice bottle of red or white wine; or maybe a quality single-malt Scotch?

[-]

nborders@reddit

My mom with Parkinson's loves her weighted blanket.

[-]

MissSara13@reddit

Costco gift card. That way, they can use it for gas when they go on their road trips or for anything else that they need. I used to send my Dad Amazon digital gift cards but he figured out how to send them back to me. I know he doesn't NEED anything but I still want to give him some kind of gift. My Mom likes cash.

[-]

Marsorbitor@reddit

A picture frame that you can send photos too. I'd like one too lol

[-]

kalitarios@reddit

Just do what they did to us. Leave some money on the counter with a note saying to be home by dark and call if they need anything.

[-]

Music-Maestro-Marti@reddit

Experiences or food. Get a gift certificate for an activity they like, or a gift card to their favorite restaurant. Aging parents don't need another THING taking up space in their already cluttered house.

[-]

SpeelingChamp@reddit

My mom is in denial about her need for hearing aides, so she sets her TV obnoxiously loud. I got her decent rechargeable Bluetooth earbuds (the kind that are connected together and hang around your neck. I think they were Beats), and she loves them.

[-]

roytheodd@reddit

See's Candies, every year for at least a decade now

[-]

One_Waxed_Wookiee@reddit

A coupon book with vouchers for back rubs 😅

More seriously, I made some fridge magnets with pictures of the kids on them. It's nice to have a little reminder of family while you're getting the milk out 😊

[-]

Serenewendy@reddit

I buy absolutely extravagant fluffy/furry/downy/fleecy blankets that they would never buy for themselves. They deserve to be warm and happy <3

[-]

LowkeyPony@reddit

I send my mom photos that we’ve taken over the year. She’s happy with them

[-]

foilrat@reddit

Nothing.

We stopped exchanging gifts several years ago.

So mush less stress.

[-]

brinazee@reddit

Time spent with them. My parents are actively trying to pare down their possessions. So my gift to them is a card and a visit where we play boardgames and talk.

[-]

Absinthe_gaze@reddit

A spa package

[-]

Embarrassed_Angle_59@reddit

This year I'm gifting my dad a pic of him in his 41 Willys gasser that someone on the photoshop sub colorized for me. He only has it in black and white and probably doesn't know I scanned it to digital. I think he's going to like it

[-]

FredZig@reddit

Towel warmer for their bath towels.

[-]

le4t@reddit

OK, if my golkss don't already have one I think this'll be the gift this year. Thanks!

[-]

-posie-@reddit

BritBox subscription for my mom

[-]

CottageFry@reddit

There’s a local winery that they like to visit. I buy their Wine Club Membership. They get to go enjoy wine tastings and glasses of wine there, as well as quarterly shipments packaged specifically for the club members.

[-]

Brave_Cranberry1065@reddit

Lol well, my 86-year-old dad wasn't thrilled with the artificial goat milk soap but my stepmom liked it. 🤷‍♀️ I normally get him things that I know he uses.

[-]

yueknowwho@reddit

Time and a nice meal. True Christmas!

[-]

real_p3king@reddit

My wife's family started doing donations years ago and it's worked out great since they are all fairly progressive so not a lot of conflict, it's easy to find charities that fit. I used to do the same for my parents in addition to making dinner for them until my father couldn't drive any more, then we brought dinner to them. After my mom died there's been a lot less motivation to cater (literally) to my narcissist father. I can't be with him for more than 30 minutes without losing it, and that's on edibles.

OP I hope you have a better relationship with your parents than I do.

[-]

FallonFury@reddit

I've done 3 month subscription boxes. For my mom a chocolate one, my step dad a tea one. For 3 months they got sent a box with a variety of tea/chocolate. I don't remember it being too expensive.

[-]

Daniel_Molloy@reddit

Time.

It’s the only thing they need. Do something for them or with them.

[-]

DynastyZealot@reddit

Storyworth (where they answer questions about themselves for a year and it turns into a book) for both of them this year. They aren't getting any younger, and I want my kids to know their stories first-hand.

[-]

CitizenChatt@reddit

Bake them a pie 🥧

[-]

TexGirl8@reddit

I make them a calendar every year using family photos. Adding birthdays (even for family that have died) and special occasions for each month.

I also have done ornaments for their tree, flowering plants for their garden, and dinner certificates

[-]

beepbeepboop74656@reddit

I gave my mom a lil book of experiences last year she loved it, it had things like a hike and a picnic, movie tickets, and clean out the garage. This year we’re going on a dinner cruise and I got her a pack of amtrack tickets so she could visit me.

[-]

ToughManagement4268@reddit

Just spend time with them, perfect gift I think.

[-]

jmkul@reddit

We only do small gifts at Christmas (one gift each for under the tree, since my childhood). My parents, like yours, have everything they need. Mum however recently said she needs to get some new PJs for dad, so I've said to wait, as I will get these for him for Christmas (she also mentioned she wants so.e lighter blue jeans, so that's her present).

If i wasn't getting these I would've got them some fancy food items and made a hamper or a gift card to their local supermarket. A few years ago I organised a lawn mowing/gardening service (which I continue to pay for - not a huge monthly expense but helps them a lot as they are becoming less able to maintain their garden due to ageing)

[-]

WinterMedical@reddit

They want your time. My mom is in her late 80s so the family joke is I’ll start buying her jewelry that I want when she dies.

[-]

kingNero1570@reddit

Take them to lunch or bring it in

[-]

Justsomerando1234@reddit

Usually some sort of snack.

[-]

bunnybates@reddit

Experiences. Build memories for the rest of the family with them involved. People who feel loved and feel like they have a purpose are happier.

[-]

marfran2927@reddit

My parents are in their early 70s and still doing road trips, so I pay for their AAA renewal every year and then get some of their fave car snacks for their trips.

[-]

kipy7@reddit

We usually put together a photo book from the past year. If they order out from a restaurant, and we'll take care of the bill. Fruit basket.

[-]

IYFS88@reddit

My mom is terrible at organizing so this year I already ordered and assembled a new small pantry cabinet and organized it for her, then took a trunkful of extra kitchen junk to goodwill for her - all as the gift. I’m sure it’ll look a hot mess again by Christmastime but I can throw in a maintenance job on it when I visit. :)

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Techchick_Somewhere@reddit

My 90 year old neighbour says her favourite gift from her kids is “the job jar”. Also consumables. Anything where you can spend time with them. A weekend away somewhere special. A dinner and theatre night. Etc.

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GusGus6502@reddit

What is "the job jar"?

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Techchick_Somewhere@reddit

From what she said it was a list of things she needed help with around the house and they would make a big weekend of coming to town and doing all the jobs.

Which I am doing for my out of town parents on a regular basis anyway.

[-]

Rontunaruna@reddit

Do you all play games? Could you buy a fun game for everyone to play during the holidays? Maybe start a tradition.

Or are there grandkids? We adults just buy for the grandkids so they have something to do while the adults hang out and chat.

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Fit_Caramel_9599@reddit

One of those fun projectors. Like this one https://a.co/d/gtbbMVp

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No_Adhesiveness_8207@reddit

Here - adopt a coral in their name! https://coralgardeners.org/products/adopt-a-coral

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FunTooter@reddit

My parents like calendars with pictures of the family, grandkids. Or a gift basket with self-care products they wouldn’t normally buy for themselves.

[-]

LorraineHB@reddit

Costco gift card. Last Christmas when my mom was alive I got $250 card for her and she spent it right away. Any other gift card sits in her purse for 10 years.

[-]

MyFrampton@reddit

Gift card to a grocery store.

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BuffyTheMoronSlayer@reddit

For me, my mom doesn’t buy herself new clothes (and I get it, she’s retired, she has enough to do what she needs to do) but I replenish things like pajamas when she needs them.

[-]

milkawhat@reddit

Advent calendars are fun

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YogaSkydiver@reddit

I'm getting my parents a year of Netflix. I know they will enjoy it but I think they are too intimidated to subscribe and set it up. I'll get it all set up for them next week when I visit. Christmas is going to arrive early!

[-]

juliaskankles@reddit

At this point I feel being their child and a well adjusted functioning adult is gift enough. 🤷🏻‍♀️

[-]

Dampmaskin@reddit

Hear me out.

Everoyne needs a flashlight.
It is an understatement to say that flashlights have evolved a lot in the past 10 years. The progress has been insane.
The older generation may not have bought a flashlight in the past 20 years, or if they did, it was either a AAA driven cheapo that doesn't work very well, or something Maglite-esque, which is sadly very outdated tech at this point.
My own recommendation, as a flashlight enthusiast noob: The Wurkkos WK03 is on sale for $13 right now, rechargable battery included. It's relatively waterproof, tiny for what it is, easy to use, and a complete package. Just remember to choose the version with the included battery. Or if you want to go a bit more upscale, the sky is the limit.
If you go over to the enthusiasts on r/flashlight they can recommend you awesome lights at any price point. You probably want to ask for something with an integrated USB-C charger, as your parents probably don't want to mess with external chargers at their age.

I bought a FC11C for my own mother, but I probably should have gone for the technically slightly inferior but significantly smaller WK03.

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MobiusMeema@reddit

Make them a lavish breakfast or dinner. Costs less than most gifts, and they will be delighted.

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Meat_Bingo@reddit

I get my mom and stepdad gift certificates to get their hair done. And then I get them a joint gift of a gift certificate to a restaurant they enjoy.

[-]

pinkaline@reddit

I usually go with concert tickets or restaurants gift cards.

Sometimes a champagne or good bottle of wine with some gourmet chocolates or good quality oils and vinegars that I know they will enjoy but not splurge on.

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ImAlsoNotOlivia@reddit

GC to favorite restaurant or tix to a concert. Spa GC. Experiences over stuff.

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Cantech667@reddit

When my parents were living, my dad would often tell me that he didn’t want me to get them anything for Christmas. I would always get him an Amazon gift certificate, and my mom eventually he’ll let me know if she wanted me to get for her. I would also get them a gift certificate to their favourite restaurant. On the few Christmases, where my mom didn’t let me know, I ended up getting her a Shoppers Drug Mart certificate, because she like to buy lotions, fragrances, and makeup. This way she could get whatever she wanted. They both seemed pretty happy with that.

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elspotto@reddit

My stepdad is like that. Now that I’m close enough and mom has passed he comes here for Thanksgiving week and we combine the holiday season. I will still get him something, but I also take him out to eat, take him to local places of interest, and indulge his desire to use my place as a jumping off spot to go see the many national historic sites/battlefield parks relating to the revolutionary war within a couple hours of here.

Then I send him home with some quality North Carolina microbrew from here in town and wine from the excellent winery down the road a bit.

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Difficult_Ad_502@reddit

Usually do gift cards to local restaurants my dad likes…he tends to be picky, or Edwin watts gift cards

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stinkyrobot@reddit

Calendars!

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digdugnate@reddit

free stay at the nursing home and they'll like it!

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Neon_Samurai_@reddit

Socks.

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brookish@reddit

Experiences! Tickets to an event nearby they would like. Travel vouchers. Cooking classes. Flying lessons. Airline vouchers.

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axebodyspraytester@reddit

For years it didn't matter what I got my father if I got it at a gas station or spent hundreds of dollars and took months to pick it out . All I got was a thas nice and he would forget about it. So I said screw it nothing nice. The next year I bought a glass barrel and filled it with his favorite nuts Almonds, Pecans, Pistachios and Macadamia nuts.

I had never seen anything like that reaction he lit up like a kid getting a playstation 5 he was smiling so hard he almost broke a tooth. So you never know.

[-]

jIdiosyncratic@reddit

Seriously Amazon gift cards. My Dad lives on there. Of course that's what they get me too so it's kind of a wash. It used to be Panera and Applebee's gift cards when they would occasionally go out but they don't much anymore because they are still afraid of COVID.

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Disco-Bingo@reddit

Time with you.

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OldManGunslinger@reddit

Experiences. Since her retirement, my mom has been to over two dozen states and two cruises.

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debby8541@reddit

I buy my parents Costco membership and pay for their newspaper subscription

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fasada68@reddit

Shit, at 55 I don't really need anything from my kids

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Adventuresforlife1@reddit

Food is always nice

[-]

RunRunRabbitRunovich@reddit

My dad will be 84 this month. He likes Yuengling Beers and Crown Royal and a nice charcuterie board with an assortment of olives, grape leaves and nuts.

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nutmegtell@reddit

Mine have been basically shut ins since COVID. Photos of grandkids. Amazon gift certificates and Door Dash

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Then_Impression_2254@reddit

This is an excellent thread.

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Then_Impression_2254@reddit

I am loving the ideas of a monthly food thing. My dad would love it and he’s 84.

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Then_Impression_2254@reddit

I always buy my mom a cashmere sweater on the black Friday sale at Macy’s because they’re like $50. I also get them DVDs because they don’t stream shows or movies.

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DoppledBramble3725@reddit

My entire family is the same, we've come to enjoy making little food centric gift baskets for each other. In the case of my sister, I always include one joke canned item of something really gross.

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security-six@reddit

Macaroni necklace

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Dangerous-Art-Me@reddit

I knitted dad a nice soft hat for winter.

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MaximumJones@reddit

Giant sized jug of sugar free Metamucil.

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fuddykrueger@reddit

That stuff is expensive! 😅

[-]

MaximumJones@reddit

Exactly. That's why I told both of my kids this is what I want for Christmas

[-]

fuddykrueger@reddit

It’s actually a great idea! It’s tiresome having to always put it on my grocery list.

[-]

Artichokeydokey8@reddit (OP)

😂

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auntieup@reddit

I got my late parents what they liked the most. They liked going to botanical gardens nearby for walks, so I bought them memberships. After Dad died, I went big on what my Mom liked: floral arrangements and ice cream. Her favorite thing was the ice cream cake I got her for the last Christmas she spent in her house.

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cctintwrweb@reddit

Meals out / experiences are my go to , a trip away in a hotel , tickets to a show or a booking for a nice meal that I tend to take mum to. Along with a small box of expensive chocolate so there's something to have on the day. She has everything she likes so it's all I can get her that's actually going to be appreciated.

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Previous_Wedding_577@reddit

My brother is ordering a kit so our elderly mom can record her life story for us.

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Lizzieanne68@reddit

My Mom recently had to move to a nursing home, and really doesn’t have any extra space. And before that lived in an efficiency apartment.

But she has always loved flowers - tended our gardens, grew African violets in the house. So I always order flowers for her for her birthday and holidays.

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Jolly_Attention_1982@reddit

A This blanket to keep them warm over the winter with their names or family tree on each one .

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MyFallWillBe4you@reddit

My mom will tell me what she wants. And it won’t be cheap. My dad is getting a patio heater because he’s cold all the time but loves to grill.

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kblv-forred@reddit

Fancy fruit from H&D!

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sh6rty13@reddit

A few years ago I only started buying my folks experiences. I take my mom to a concert, or my dad fishing. I snap pics while we’re out and about. Someday they’ll be gone, but I will carry those memories instead of digging through a bunch more bullshit that I tried to guess if they’d like or not.

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azchelle677@reddit

Mine would prefer a visit from me - my time to help her, listen to her, go shopping with her. She doesn't want for material things; just companionship.

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Zealousideal_Lab_427@reddit

My parents passed in 2019 and 2023, but the past decade, I’d been giving them “consumables” as someone mentioned. Favorite restaurants, bookstore for my dad, apothecary for my mom, and usually something edible (dad) and handmade (mom).

As a 55 year old woman, I also do this for my friends that I exchange gifts with, such as a candle, bottle of wine, fancy chocolate, piece of jewelry (made by me), or take an out of town friend to dinner (nothing to pack). One friend and I always meet halfway for lunch and do our gift exchange.

It’s definitely time spent together that’s the gift as I get older. Plus, we live in a small house, and sometimes gifts sit on my dining room table until the following g summer.

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punkolina@reddit

My parents love tickets to a dinner theatre!

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ShutYourDumbUglyFace@reddit

Experiences and consumables.

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BestLeopard981@reddit

You are already giving them the greatest gift of you flying out to visit them. Experiences are so much greater than things. But if you want to show up with something, you could do something edible, or maybe a journal of your favorite memories with them.

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Able_Set9010@reddit

Your parents don't want anything except quality time with you.. but if you want to bring something, how about a Christmas ornament? The memory attached to it is more special than the actual ornament..

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Feeling_Fisherman956@reddit

Bunnings vouchers usually does the trick... a few of us chip in so we can make it a decent amount...✌

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Primary-Initiative52@reddit

I buy a beautiful Christmas flower table decoration and give it to my parents mid December. They can enjoy it all through the season.

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gottagrablunch@reddit

How about arrange a nice experience you can all do together?

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SuzIsCool@reddit

Our family only gives perishables or stuff you can use: alcohol, food, face cream, candy, teeth whitener, gift cards to restaurants or car washes.

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Quirky-Camera5124@reddit

wine or whiskey, if they drink, diner out, a trip to visit you on the other coast, perhaps in first class.

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tiredoldbitch@reddit

I always send my Dad food. He has everything he will ever need.

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richcallie@reddit

We buy my Dad practical things. If I see he hasn't replaced his wallet or his shoes are looking "loved," I'll get him something nice that he would like but wouldn'tpurchase for himself. Last year, I told the siblings to replace all his bedding, and I got him waterproof floor mats for his SUV.

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upsetmojo@reddit

Get or make them a nice meal and be happy you still can…

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LittleCeasarsFan@reddit

Puzzles. Supposedly that good for your brain and can help with dementia.

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ArlenForestWalker@reddit

Perhaps there’s something around their place you can take care of like: paint the bathroom, or assemble that storage box for the back porch, clean the gutters, mulch the garden, or whatever.

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socialmediaignorant@reddit

I got mine baseball tickets to take my kids to a game. Memories w family and grandkids.

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stefaniki@reddit

I buy my parents giftcards to their favorite restaurants and monthly or quarterly clubs (looking at you AmazingClubs)

They have enough "stuff" and I'd rather give them experiences. When I visit, I usually just try to pay for everything when we go out since they're hosting me and driving me around.

But in all honesty, they'll really just be happy to be with you for Christmas.

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vonblankenstein@reddit

Get one of the folks in r/hungry artists to paint/draw a picture of them from a photo. They will love it!

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RCA2CE@reddit

Adida tiros and a tri blend t-shirt

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Musicman1972@reddit

I either make something for them that takes a bit of time or, in your situation, I'd probably buy something local to you that they can't easily get on their coast.

Have you got a local brewery? That kinda thing.

I agree just biting stuff is a bit pointless when people have everything they want anyway but the best things I've ever been bought were cheap anyway... Just stuff I wouldn't be able to get easily myself.

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Proud_Aspect4452@reddit

My mom is always sad that the only gift she wants is coming to visit. I have a young son and I don’t need anything else in this house and agree that when he’s older, all I care about is that he comes home. so I think coupled with your unemployment, which I understand because I’m in the same situation, traveling in is your gift to her. If my son was older and unemployed and gave me a gift, I would be appreciative but deep down I would feel terrible that he spent the money.

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Negative-Language595@reddit

We stopped exchanging gifts and exchanged gift cards for years. It felt weird trading money, so my wife and I suggested several years ago that we exchange cards and nothing more. It went over well, and if we do send anything back and forth it’s homemade, like holiday baking or hand-crafted ornaments. We’re in different states, and the calls with our parents mean more to us than purchased gifts.

It’s funny to think about how my mother challenged me when I was little and watching the annual “How the Grinch Stole Christmas.” She asked how I would feel if suddenly there was nothing under the tree on Christmas morning. I said something like I’d be OK if that happened, not fully meaning it. Now we’re doing it.

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DMGlowen@reddit

My dad's wife gets Gift Cards to bingo every year.

My dad will get smoked meat, or charitable donation in his name, he supports Heifer.

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lgramlich13@reddit

My parents are long gone, but I've let my stepson and DIL know that, rather than buying me anything for holidays, please put that money away for my grandsons.

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Available-Bison-9222@reddit

I got tickets for my Dad and I to go to a classical concert. You could check if there's a local show on and bring them to that.

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psib3r@reddit

An experience

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ImNotTheBossOfYou@reddit

Restaurant gift certificates.

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elcad@reddit

Scratchers and wine. Maybe a 300 piece puzzle.

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TavieP@reddit

Experiences. A gift card to a favorite restaurant; tickets to a show; a certificate for a spa day; etc.

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carolinaredbird@reddit

I donate to st Jude’s in their name.

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PatchesCatMommy2004@reddit

I ask what my Dad wants. Barring that, I buy him stamps - from the post office.

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Luna_Floral0519@reddit

Last year my brother gave Get Well gift bags. Had DayQuil, NyQuil, Mucinex, hand sanitizer, COVID test kit, Lysol. He also got each vehicle covered with AAA. Both have come in handy for all of us!

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Breakfastchocolate@reddit

Gift card to the local “fancy” grocery store- they use them to buy what they wouldn’t normally splurge on, prepared foods.. some have a senior day where they get % off. Bon maman jams advent calendar. Vacaville dried fruit and nut trays are a simple idea but really great quality.

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ChiefinLasVegas@reddit

nothing. but your time with them is priceless

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Highland_doug@reddit

I do books, but I try to put a lot of time into thinking about which book and why.

Because when two people read the same book, they can have a conversation about it. And the best thing you can do with an aging parent is talk to them, especially if communication is otherwise difficult.

My father is an emotionally distant person who was essentially disengaged from my life by the time I was 15. But he's not a bad person, and he's my dad.

There's a mystery novelist named William Kent Krueger who has written a trilogy of standalone historical fiction books about growing up in the midwest in the mid 20th century. They're very Steinbeckian. I thought my dad could relate, so I have sent them all as gifts at various points. I've talked about those stories with him as much as I've talked to him about anything else these past few years.

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Queen6cat@reddit

Give them an experience. Go see lights, go to a school concert, record some memories. Do this while you can.

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missleavenworth@reddit

Fuzzy socks (muk luks) or slippers, nice pj's (cuddle duds), soft robe (father in law never turns the heat on).

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PhoenixSandy@reddit

Take them to their favorite moderately priced restaurant

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Crabbyabbie9@reddit

Tickets to something. One year I did a stand up comedian, that was fun. I've also given my mom a Delta gift card so she could use it on one of her trips.

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JaneTaoMDFACS@reddit

A vacation package with all related expenses covered

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chrisgreer@reddit

I think I’m getting my parents one of those directed journal things that helps them write their story. So I guess I’m getting them homework.

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Eyydis@reddit

Tickets to a show somewhere. We love a Saturday matinee and are only 44 lol.

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GenXella@reddit

Take them to do something or give them tickets to a local show or something.

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GeoHog713@reddit

We plan events together.

Doesn't matter the scale - just time to spend with each other

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TieFighter72@reddit

I do gift cards for their main streaming services.

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PDXAirportCarpet@reddit

Every year my dad gets a membership to his county golf courses. My mom likes a gift card for her salon where she gets her nails/facials done.

They have been Swedish Death Cleaning for years and I no longer gift them "stuff".

[-]

matterri@reddit

I had never heard of Swedish Death Cleaning. I like that idea!

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Ecstatic-Ad6516@reddit

When my dad was alive, I'd give my parents a $500 gc to a local farm that supplies humanely raised beef pork and chicken. Still do it for my mom, just less amount.

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False-Minute44@reddit

My mom seemed to appreciate when I got her a yearlong car wash subscription. They love having a clean ride.

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elphaba00@reddit

I usually give them a gift card for one of their streaming services for the entire year. My mom still uses a paper calendar to track her stuff, so I'll buy her something with pretty nature scenes.

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matterri@reddit

My daughter and I just had this discussion about my mom who is now 81. She doesn't need any more "knick-knacks." We are going to get her a gift to the nail salon she goes to as well as one to the place where she goes to get her hair done. She also likes slipper and hand creams. We are considering one of the coffee mugs that keeps the coffee at a specified temperature.

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Inevitable_Professor@reddit

Fruit and nut trays.

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ReneeLiana@reddit

Don't buy them anything. Your presence is enough.

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fuddykrueger@reddit

Turkey dinner with the trimmings and a fancy dessert or special after-dinner drink.

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Daisy72373@reddit

I get my parents a wine of the month as a joint gift every Christmas. I do an international one, so they have fun with it and cook a dish from that country when they open the bottle. They love it and ask me to do it every year.

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gardenflower180@reddit

Can you contribute to Xmas dinner?

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Purple_Pansy_Orange@reddit

A variety of gift cards. Small lower value things like the donut shop, quick service restaurant, gas, ice cream, etc. I did this for my husband one year and it was fun using them throughout the next month or so.

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Desperate-Laugh-7257@reddit

Have 90 yo dad. I make him a pie or bring supplies that he asks for during the year. If i give him something he dont want, he makes me take it home. I might bring some tea, but If im not willing to take something home, i Dont try to surprize him.

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fuddykrueger@reddit

My mom does the same thing. I brought her some m&m’s and a candy bar and she made me take them back. She is almost 80 and has been ‘on a diet’ since I was a child! lol

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Chicagogirl72@reddit

Gift cards to their favorite restaurants even though they’re rich and can buy whatever they want

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No_Plantain_4990@reddit

Both of mine are deceased, but according to my dad the best gift we ever got them was Directv. (They lived way out, away from everything, could only pick up 2 channels.) I think he kinda knew that time was growing short, (he lived less than a year after) and he was just super tickled to have so many channels.

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fusionsofwonder@reddit

Pictures of the grandkids.

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International_Try660@reddit

Have a loved picture put on canvas to hang in the family room.

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Multigrain_Migraine@reddit

Things we can eat or do together. Neither of us want more stuff, but we will enjoy going out for breakfast together.

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Fun_Flamingo_4238@reddit

Restaurant gift cards

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Consistent-Job6841@reddit

A slide show of old family photos that were taken pre-smartphone.

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BuffyBubbles1967@reddit

I do a gift card for her favorite grocery store.

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PaintingNouns@reddit

Something edible, or an activity like a pottery lesson or a cooking class.

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NoSummer1345@reddit

I give my Dad a live, tiny tree with lights every year. He likes not having to set up a big one.

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IWantAStorm@reddit

Food

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Adept_Investigator29@reddit

Teletherapy sessions

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mechanab@reddit

Macaroni art always did the trick when I was younger.

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dogsaybark@reddit

Make a donation in mom’s name to “The Human Fund”. The Human Fund: Money for People.

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Pocketeer1@reddit

We send stuff from Goldbelly. Things they can’t get where they live. We’ve sent ribs from Memphis, gumbo from New Orleans, baked goods from all over….you get the idea. They have loved it all.

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InappropriateLibrary@reddit

Birdseed wreath, Edible Arrangements, socks, candy from their youth, gift card. How about taking them out to dinner or bringing wine and a dessert to Christmas dinner?

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Artichokeydokey8@reddit (OP)

Birdseed wreath? Great idea. Where do you usually find that?

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InappropriateLibrary@reddit

We ordered them from Wild Birds Unlimited. I'm sure you could find one at a lower price but the quality is really good at WBU. They were so heavy and the birds ate all of it so it didn't leave a mess on the ground under it. IIRC, my husband had better luck ordering at a store versus on the website.

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ubiquity75@reddit

I get them experiential gifts. Trips to places or tickets to events. They really like this.

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Elegant_Tale_3929@reddit

Most of the time we've gotten at least 1 set of parents Omaha steak meals, and they've always been appreciated (if for nothing else than decent tasting food you don't have to do much more than warm up).

This year, I'm getting my Mom a Candle Warmer with some candles, because she's been lamenting that she's afraid to light candles at home for fear of starting a fire but would love to be able to.

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r3l0ad@reddit

You're the gift, you'll already be spending enough $$ getting there. Buy dinner or plan some cool experience like remaking a family favorite photo or something. Things don't matter, memories do, when they're gone you won't look back at that TV and have a smile, but that picture of your parents will produce that memory and smile.

[-]

Strangewhine88@reddit

Something for their kitchen. They all have dull knives, thin old sauce pans, outdated nor worn blenders, food processors, etc, 30 year old spices and herbs, almond paste etc. if a small appliance, make sure it’s simple and fairly fool proof re safety. Aging parents’ coordination and reaction time do decline with time relative to their earlier lives.

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Artichokeydokey8@reddit (OP)

I was thinking a milk frother/warmer. I always see them putting their cup of milk In The microwave

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Strangewhine88@reddit

I like this idea. This only works if it’s something you know they will use instead of their own complicated habit. I have done this with people whose kitchen struggles I have observed and know well.

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Artichokeydokey8@reddit (OP)

Yeah. Good point. It’s cheap tho. So might be worth a shot.

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Strangewhine88@reddit

Absolutely. Do you have one? Do a stealth test with them?

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Artichokeydokey8@reddit (OP)

I do. But they live in the west coast and I live in the east coast. So hard to test.

[-]

Strangewhine88@reddit

Oh well. Take a gamble.

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irishgator2@reddit

Consumable items! Flowers and plants too (if still in a house)

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Travelchick8@reddit

My mom (87 yrs young) gets a bottle of Maker’s Mark, a bottle of Baileys and money to get her hair done.

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IllTakeACupOfTea@reddit

edible things are always a hit!

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Pantokraterix@reddit

Consumables. Gift cards from fancy places they wouldn’t normally shop or get groceries. Candles. Bath things (fancy soaps, etc).

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SocksJockey@reddit

My dad is on a very tight, fixed-income budget. My sister looks at his income and outgoing every week to make sure he is staying on track (he was never good with money). Of course, we will help out if/when he needs it, but for now, he is getting by but has very little room for extras (eating out, seeing a movie, etc.) So on his birthdays, father's days, Christmas, etc, I get him a visa gift card loaded with $100 that he can use on anything he wants.

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Alt_Dim@reddit

Make me a pie and come spend some time with me. That is more than enough.

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WaitingitOut000@reddit

We take care of my Silent Gen parents in our home, so they have our time already.😄 So we go with edible treats like nice chocolates and hot chocolate mixes. Also fancy soaps, PJs, slippers, new towels etc. It’s all pretty practical but it’s what they like.

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Due-Asparagus6479@reddit

I buy my mother a gift card to the salon that covers her haircuts for a year.

[-]

practical_mastic@reddit

Treat them to a coffee date at a lovely café.

Make something before you go. Granola, taco seasoning mix, chocolate truffles, homemade roasted nuts (sweet or savory), something you know they like!

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snarffle-@reddit

Find a nice photo of them and have it framed.

[-]

Bright_Eyes8197@reddit

Gas Cards, supermarket gift cards, drugstore gift cards, amazon gift cards. I put it in a little basket with some candies and fruit and voila.

[-]

jeffro3339@reddit

Amazon gift card!

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Agodunkmowm@reddit

I’m taking my mom to Hawaii this year!

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sparklehouse666@reddit

Spend time with them doing something they enjoy. I usually take my dad to a sporting event and take my mom for a foot massage...or take them both to a concert.

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Cliggins1999@reddit

Delayed maintenance/chores around the house or property.

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speckledhen74@reddit

Got my mom a heated lap blanket. She’s always cold.

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loquacious_avenger@reddit

we send flowers, because my mother in law doesn’t like us to spend money on her so she wouldn’t enjoy a gift card.

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poolpog@reddit

food, memories, or experiences

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thirtyone-charlie@reddit

I go to Costco and get my mom a big basket of groceries. She can buy her own but I get her some special things and good shelf stable stuff. This makes cooking easier for her and she loves this gift.

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theonlymrsmcd@reddit

Omaha Steaks is always a good choice also

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love_that_fishing@reddit

Aging parent here. What they want is your time. That's it. I have everything I need and if I wanted something I'd just order it on Amazon. My kids are still really involved with us and we'll have all of them and spouses for Christmas so it'll be a lot of fun. But if my kids lived far away I'd much rather get one more day with them than a gift. We're super lucky that our kids facetime or call quite a bit and we see them often. But if we didn't, man I'd sure just want as much time as possible. time goes too fast.

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theonlymrsmcd@reddit

Get my parents' gift certificates to their favorite restaurants. They are retired, so a nice meal out for free is a nice treat.

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Primary-Ad8012@reddit

Restaurant gift cards

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OtakuTacos@reddit

Netflix, GrubHub, Amazon, and Dunkin’ gift cards are the most requested . My parents also like photo books and photo calendars.

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liquidpele@reddit

We typically did one of those soft blankets you can get at Marshalls, or a crafty thing from the local craft festival vendors if you know what kind of style of decoration they like.

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Boxofbikeparts@reddit

Aurora picture frame. You can add photos to it anytime when it's connected to a wifi portal. Gram loves it.

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canofbeans06@reddit

My go-to present for adults (that are also affordable) are printed pictures in nice picture frames. I feel like the older generation is more appreciative of the simpler things and photos are really nice to have displayed in your home, but nowadays people are too lazy to print and pick a nice frame. If you want to go with new technology though, you can also get an electronic picture frame that will display photos as well. My boomer parents really enjoyed that as they wouldn’t be able to figure out how to load pictures and themselves but they loved seeing photos of family on it. Every now and then my siblings and I will upload new photos through email and it will just show up on their picture frame at their home.

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leaky_eddie@reddit

Got mom a digital picture frame so the family could upload photos. I set it up for her sent the app details to my sisters. She loved it. Then she said the light from it kept her awake - it was in a different room - so she turned it off but still complained that we didn’t add photos often enough.

Now I just send Italian baked goods.

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_depj_@reddit

Cozy pajamas, snacks, lotto tickets, new socks, gift cards

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80Hilux@reddit

When my parents were alive, the best gift I could give them was to just spend time with them. Sit and talk, do a puzzle, make dinner for them. They will appreciate it, and you will appreciate it even more when they are gone.

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34countries@reddit

Spa treatments

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SubstantialPressure3@reddit

Maybe help them out with a project they find overwhelming or can't do themselves?

I'll bet there's closets full of stuff they don't want to deal with, and haven't used in years, or, in fact ever.

Old photo albums, coats decades old, things they have inherited from other people and don't know what the hell to do with.

Maybe they need some yard work done, or help getting rid of things.

Maybe the baseboards need to be repainted or something.

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jaydarl@reddit

My dad goes to Costco every week religiously and buys the various gadgety things. So, it is damn near impossible to get him something he doesn't already have.

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Artichokeydokey8@reddit (OP)

Do we have the same dad?

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jaydarl@reddit

Lol... If he calls you with "I'm at Costco getting a 'whatever,' do you want one? Then probably, yes.

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Temporary-Nail9920@reddit

Groceries, restaurant gift cards.

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bjtg@reddit

food or experience gifts.

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jeep242@reddit

Lottery scratch offs

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chabs1965@reddit

My mom was a snacker. Sweet or salty didn't matter. She didn't want a lot but if it had a good snap, she was happy.

So I bought her a tower of snacks. It wasn't very big and each portion was like 3 oz. But she absolutely loved them.

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crematoryfire@reddit

We (siblings etc) will all pitch in to do something with them like going to a show or museum that they would be interested in.

Keeps the clutter accumulation down.

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coffeetreatrepeat@reddit

Gift certificate for a local catering place that does daily prepared meals for seniors. My mom loves looking at the weekly menu and picking one or two meals each week and tells me all about the food.

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snarffle-@reddit

A St Bernard.

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Artichokeydokey8@reddit (OP)

Ha. If only they liked dogs. I have two dogs. Not invited.

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JJQuantum@reddit

Take them out to a very nice restaurant where they normally wouldn’t go because of the cost but you know they will love.

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just-looking99@reddit

Experiences. That’s what you get them. Especially when you can “do” the experience together

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TheSwedishEagle@reddit

I always buy my parents things they can eat.

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ancientastronaut2@reddit

Towards the end, my parents appreciated help and time spent with them above any gift.

So while you're there, offer to organize their bills, or clean a closet or garage...run errands they've been putting off, help making appointments, etc, etc.

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atfgo701@reddit

We did blue apron meal prep boxes one year and that was good because they got all of the food sent and even tried some new things they would have never made before

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nygrl811@reddit

I used to give care packages with food and snacks. Maybe a calendar that targets their interests. Consumables.

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Potential_Lie_1177@reddit

We buy nothing, they are trying to get rid of clutter so that they won't burden us kids when they pass away. They don't want food because they have digestive problems.

The grandkids make them a card, they seem to enjoy that. Otherwise just a visit and taking them out every now and then.

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mikraas@reddit

For my mom, book/puzzle/crime box of the month. My dad, framed photos I've taken.

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allbsallthetime@reddit

Amazon gift card and I pay for her covered parking spot at her apartment complex.

If she has anything on her Amazon gift list we'll buy a few things from that.

There's a thought, get your parents to make a list. Explain you're going to buy a gift, it's better to get something they need or want.

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WasteLake1034@reddit

You are so lucky to still have them. So spend time with them.

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oneupme@reddit

Bring some food and just spend time with them. I know that's what I'd want with my kids after they have their own family. I don't need anything. I just want to spend some time with them and share something to eat.

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AloneWish4895@reddit

Experiences with them. Tickets for things together.

Consumables- coffee subscription, grocery cards, grocery delivery service,

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Milo_Minderbinding@reddit

I buy them nice socks, like Darn Tough. Everyone likes nice socks.

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MissMurderpants@reddit

Puzzles we can all do together or games we can play together.

Best gifts ever. Truly. Blockus, scrabble. You get the idea.

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elissapool@reddit

Make a photo book

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Dothemath2@reddit

Art and photo books of family?

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GaRGa77@reddit

New laptop/new phone

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psionic1@reddit

My dad is a woodworker and so am I. I buy him some of my favorite tools that he would never get for himself. Like a woodpeckers 6" ruler.

Mom mom does a lot of arts and crafts. I got her my favorite pencils and sharpener in a kit from Blackwing. That was last year. But first time in a long time where I think i nailed it.

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siamesecat1935@reddit

When my mom was still in her apartment, she'd give me a list of things she wanted/needed. In past years, she's gotten stamps, a new can opener, a giant bottle of her favorite shampoo, body lotion etc. And food.

she's now in a nursing home, but still very with it, and loves to read, so she will be getting an Amazon gift card so she can buy Kindle books.

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muphasta@reddit

restaraunt gift cards.

Print and frame old family pix, new family pix, a print of their favorite art.

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acornwbusinesssocks@reddit

I spend time, gift card to a restaurant, take them to dinner, and do an experience gift. Like a museum/botanical garden day together, jazz concert, etc.

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Alternative-Dig-2066@reddit

I’ve taken to making up baskets with usable stuff- fancy infused olive oil, dark chocolate covered coffee beans, shelled pistachios, dried apricots, etc

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QuiJon70@reddit

My mother is a life ling dodger fan going back to Brooklyn days. So I'm thinking some kind of world series product and then maybe a signed ball from freddie freeman or something.

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tigers692@reddit

Mine passed, I usually get them flowers.

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Artichokeydokey8@reddit (OP)

Sorry. One of mine died a long time ago. It sucks.

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Makeup_life72@reddit

I live in Maryland with my mom and my sister lives in Texas. She’s gotten our mom grocery store gift cards, flowers, a calendar with family photos ( ala Vistaprint), a monogrammed mug with different kind of teas included.

There’s a lot of things that can be done cheaply but in all reality, your visit IS the gift.

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Artichokeydokey8@reddit (OP)

True but something to open on Christmas would be nice for them.

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1friendswithsalad@reddit

My parents and partner and I agreed to do stocking stuffer Xmas last year. Still the fun of opening things and buying personalized gifts, but they are all small and mostly consumable, or little practical things, like cute phone chargers or novelty socks or things like that. It’s been great!

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nameitginger@reddit

I make a huge food basket from their favourite Italian grocerer

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Cantbewokethankgod@reddit

My Dad and his wife, he's 90 and quite financially set. We haven't bought them or them us for 20+ years. I used to buy him wine, but I didn't get the brand so I just if anything pick up a liquor store gift card

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IdahoDuncan@reddit

Donate something in their name , preferably to a charity they believe in.

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AgingXennial@reddit

Time, memories, experiences! They can never get enough, and will remember that more than anything. On that note, hug your parents.

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Lolapmilano@reddit

This is such a good question. I just bought my 79 year old mom a heating pad that goes over your shoulders and back (shaped almost like a little vest) for her birthday. I think she'll use it a lot.

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AlternativeEvent1195@reddit

My brother and I split the cost of a Kindle unlimited subscription for our dad, because he is constantly reading. And then I get him a snack food to have something to open.

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lorinabaninabanana@reddit

I usually DIY something, like a crocheted afghan or a painting.

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eurydice_aboveground@reddit

Ebooks were always big with both mom and dad. This year mom has actually asked for earrings, having lost one of the pair in the netherworld of the car console.

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inot72@reddit

I usually get some kind of food for my dad that he doesn't buy from himself very often because of the price. One year, I got him frozen salmon, one year lobster and steaks.

Check out goldbelly.com. They have a lot of options.

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mrericvillalobos@reddit

My mother loves her gift cards to Marshall’s, TJ Maxx, Ross. My father, a bottle of wine, and a new necktie. Every year.

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esk_209@reddit

When I'm in town visiting my mom, I try to do some cooking and stock her freezer with easy-to-reheat single-serve meals.

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imadork1970@reddit

Massager, heating pad, cane, walker, comfortable slippers, bathrobe, lottery tickets, Anne Murray cd

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Snoo_88763@reddit

Mostly silly things... my dad likes to put things on his head so I get him fun things that he can do that with, while mom likes dishtowels so we get her fun versions of those.

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ezgomer@reddit

My mom is always cold, but she wouldn’t buy herself anything new! So I’ve gotten her cozy couch blankets, electric warming blankets - I’m planning on getting her a super soft warm sweatsuit this year.

In the past, we have bought her yearly subscriptions to her fave streaming app and taken her to the casinos

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gotchafaint@reddit

As an aging parent I cherish time with my kids, that’s all.

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CalmChestnut@reddit

Restore/print, enlarged/frame old family portraits, or order a family tree/story/photo book

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Efficient_Salt_8618@reddit

I usually give consumables. Food, wine, stuff like that.

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AJC_Bentley@reddit

Consumables: food/drink or experiences

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worrymon@reddit

Experiences.

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Creamy_Frosting_2436@reddit

I gift my mom a box of personal care products three times a year: Christmas, her birthday, and Mother’s Day. She loves getting brands and products that she wouldn’t spend her own money on. The blush of youth has faded for her and me, so we enjoy products that boost our confidence.

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WillaLane@reddit

My dad has been gone a while, died mid 90s before all shops were online and everyone had the internet. He was big and tall, I had specialty shops near me that carried his size. He appreciated a new sweater that actually fit his long torso, pants that fit his length and waist. I bought him a nice bathrobe one year and he’d never had one that fit right before. He loved it. I’d also listen all year long and if he expressed interest in something, I’d take notes. He liked hats but had a larger head so I would visit hat shops in my travels for work and find a hat he might like too.

Mom was easy, I bought her jewelry. Unfortunately my AH niece stole several pieces that I bought her including a gorgeous emerald ring, my mom told me she was sure niece had stolen, we confronted her, she denied, at moms funeral she fking wore the ring and said it was a gift grandma. I hate that woman so much, her mother is just like her. The police said I couldn’t prove it wasn’t a gift because mom never filed a police report. I think I am gifting myself an emerald ring this Christmas

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livingPOP@reddit

Coffee! My parents make espresso everyday so I spoil them with coffee they would not normally purchase.

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pretty-apricot07@reddit

My parents do a lot of puzzles in the winter, so I'm always on the lookout for puzzles they might like; gift certificate to their favorite restaurant or a movie theater gift card; I'm a reiki therapist so I will make a gift certificate for a free reiki session (which they LOVE); Amazon gift card so they can get books for their kindles--I tend to learn more toward experiences then physical items these days.

They already have so. much. crap. I'm going to have to deal with when they go...

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MajYoshi@reddit

We take them out to dinner. The experience of sharing a little time and being with family is what's important to us and them.

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sundaesmilemily@reddit

My mom and I have similar niche interests, so she’s easy for me to shop for. My dad, I get a large assortment of locally roasted nuts, and pjs or a shirt for his favorite sports team. My partner gets his parents gift cards for restaurants and experiences.

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Coffey2828@reddit

Cleaning service to help them clear away some of their junk

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Pure-Pangolin-151@reddit

My mom appreciates a thoughtful card more than anything and sometimes I make something like a a craft (embroidery, cross stitch) or a framed photo of her grandkids (my dogs!)

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sunshinenwaves1@reddit

My dad loves to go out to eat but hates to spend his money on it. Restaurant gift cards. You may be able to buy some with credit card points, too.

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bluefin788@reddit

mosquitos to infest their house 🦟

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I_Am_The_Zombie_Woof@reddit

My partner and I got both of our parents a decent quality Bluetooth soundbar for their TVs. They all said the same thing. “That lovely but we don’t need that.” By the end of the holidays we got phone calls from both sets of parents about how much they loved them and using them to listen to music from their devices and how they love the improved movie experience. Turned out to be a gift they use daily. Best Buy has good deals around the holidays on mid level soundbars. Also, spending time doing meaningful things is probably all they really want

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Impressive_shot_xo@reddit

This year, I’m buying my mom a paraffin wax set up for her achy, dry hands

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razzle_dazzle321@reddit

I'm sorry about your job. You can try and wait for items to go on sale. They often put those nice fleece blankets on sale, you can grab one or two. Also a hot water bottle or those heating pads like Magic Bags, you can use over your shoulder for example. I always try and keep an eye on sales. You can get a nice gift for less money especially when finances are tight.

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mrskohlrabi@reddit

Gift certificate to local theater

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Devilimportluvr@reddit

Day spa

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realsalmineo@reddit

My parents tell me not to buy them anything because they have what they need. Also, if I was losing my job, they would tell me to save my money because I will need it.

I would recommend that you do the same.

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Artichokeydokey8@reddit (OP)

I’m thinking small gifts. They paid for my way there.

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saopaulodreaming@reddit

For small gifts, maybe a nice blend of coffee, some fancy tea bags, a nice loaf of bird from a fancy bakery, a jar off any jam, little gourmet treats.

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BitterOldDarth@reddit

I started buying wine of the month deliveries for them.

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Jolly_Security_4771@reddit

Car wash gift coupons. And gift cards for restaurants.

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MiddleAgeRiots@reddit

A weekend at a spa

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Artichokeydokey8@reddit (OP)

Would be nice if I wasn’t unemployed. I need that. Ha.

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Competitive-Bat-43@reddit

In our family, we stopped doing presents and started doing experiences.

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BasilHumble1244@reddit

Our family does the same. None of us needs more “stuff” so we plan a trip or fun outing that we can do together. My mom really likes having something to open though, so we’ll usually do some chocolates or wine as well.

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Artichokeydokey8@reddit (OP)

I used to do that too when I still lived near by. Cooking classes for all of us. That was fun. Still a great idea.

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emmsmum@reddit

Restaurant gift certificate is what I usually do. I have to do something I suppose because it doesn’t feel right to not give them something but they always say no gifts. They don’t want material things.

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DeeLite04@reddit

Experiences. Like we gifted my MIL a photo session with a friend of ours who’s a professional photographer. She loves taking pics of herself in outfits.

But also things like concerts, some of these painting or craft making events, cooking class, etc. These are all things that are done with someone else together.

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Sufficient_Stop8381@reddit

I just do gift cards to somewhere they actually use. Easy, simple.

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wokeoneof2@reddit

Gift certificates to the vendors they use. I put $150 on my mom’s account at her manicurist shop and dad we always got gift certificates to where he liked to eat breakfast at the corner cafe. Then they brag about their kids to the men and women who are caring for them o. A daily basis.

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singleguy79@reddit

Honestly lately I've been going the cheap route and getting one gift for each couple in the family including parents. It's generally a Visa gift card or something.

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HotGrass_75@reddit

We started a family film festival at Christmas

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SometimesElise@reddit

Wait I need to know more about this. Does your family actually make little shorts and then you judge and give out prizes?

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HotGrass_75@reddit

Just for viewing, we didn’t give out prizes.

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Mouse-Direct@reddit

Until my FIL's dementia worsened this year, we bought them theatre tickets. Last Christmas we gave them tickets to the national tour of "Wicked." Not sure what we'll do this year. They're financially comfortable, their health isn't great (so even day trips are difficult). They don't need more tchotchkes or handmaid gifts. We'll probably do coupons for cleaning the gutters, washing the windows, etc.

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HarlanCulpepper@reddit

I'm going to get them exactly what they got me when I DID need basic things - Nothing.

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ilp456@reddit

Since you’re unemployed, I would cook some meals and stick their freezer if they don’t mind you using their kitchen. Soups, stews and casseroles and lasagna all freeze well.

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kushbud65@reddit

I order Enstroms 2 pounds of toffee, they love it!

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TheGreatOpoponax@reddit

I don't buy my dad gifts. I take him to dinner because I know that spending time with me during his last days are more important to him than any bauble I could give.

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CarcajouCanuck@reddit

My dad told me one year to "surprise him" so I bought him a bat box.

But now though, I pick up local treats (locally roasted coffee, jams, truffles) and a bunch of IPAs. He doesn't want more stuff.

Sorry about your job, That's tough.

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tvieno@reddit

Gift cards to a favorite restaurant

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SometimesElise@reddit

Ugh sorry, are you being laid off? Happened to me this time last year - still looking, it's been brutal. My immediate family is small so the past few years I've just been baking cookies and snacks and that seems to go over well. When I was employed I bought my Mom an Apple Watch, things that she can use that are helpful, etc.

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Artichokeydokey8@reddit (OP)

Yeah timing is everything but it allows me to spend the holidays with my family since I’m off. So I’m not mad about it.

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groundhogcow@reddit

Something fun to do. Something fun to eat. Memories. Adventures. Love.

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maddiesclutch@reddit

My dad, chocolate My mom, alcohol

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WillDupage@reddit

Consumables. I order a “fresh” Christmas centerpiece for my MIL from LL Bean, a bottle of wine for my FIL, and a kringle from a local Danish baker for them both. My mom gets dinner and theater tickets.
Stuff they’ll use but never seem to buy for themselves.

Usually something small gets wrapped for the stockings - like socks, a Dunkin gift card, etc.
because it’s nice to unwrap something.

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BlueButtons07@reddit

A gift card out to dinner or the movies, gift basket with their favorite treats/snacks.

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dperiod@reddit

Grocery gift cards, usually.