Need some Maine senior gift ideas? Wondering what senior Christmas presents to get the folks who don’t want a single thing, have too much already, or don’t want to deal with any more stuff? Most older folks don’t really want to add to collections, their drawers are filled with unworn sweaters and their closet holds a stack of slippers.

What makes a good gift? Choose consumables! And that includes time. Here are some quick tips by category:

holiday greetings from Maine Senior GuideFood items

Other consumables

  • Lotion, home made hand scrub, bath salts
  • A gift certificate to hair salon or barber
  • Stamps and note cards
  • Gift certificates for help around the house or with seasonal chores

Trips, Events and Outings

Give experiences. And say that you’ll go along, because often seniors want more time with their families. Many seniors like:

  • Memory Lane trip, a narrated trip (someone else drives around a special area, the senior talks, and you ask questions and take notes and photos)
  • Trip through the china closet, where each special piece is discussed and photographed, so you’ll never wonder which side of the family it came from
  • A calendar with a monthly date all set for a fun outing
  • Membership in local Audubon, historical society or any other special interest group
  • Movie tickets
  • Theater tickets at your community theater or summer stock
  • Community ed trips to area happenings
  • Museum entrance and lunch, from the Portland Museum of Art to the Maine State Museum, Maine Maritime Museum, or Institute of Contemporary Art.
  • Bowling
  • Sleigh ride
  • Out to buy hobby supplies
  • Manicure/pedicure
  • To local greenhouse

Charitable donations

Many seniors appreciate a gift given in their name if they can’t quite afford to support a favorite charity. And the gift doesn’t have to be money. Volunteer at an agency once a month as a gift of time to your older loved one.