Santa's suggestions for senior citizens

Finding the perfect gift for a loved one can be a challenge. It can be even more difficult when shopping for your favorite senior citizen, as many of our parents or grandparents may already have everything they need, or they just don't want more "stuff" or "clutter."

If that's the case, you may find yourself in a bit of a panic, especially with Christmas just nine days away. Relax. We have some suggestions that should bring a smile to your special someone.

Lisa Marie Halecky, the marketing and admissions director at Heritage Hill Senior Community in Weatherly, had lots of great ideas for us. They include:

• Gas card, if they drive

• Stationery set and stamps, some people still "text" the old-fashioned way

• Calling cards, to keep in touch with long-distance family members

• Gift card to a favorite restaurant

• Stylish scarves for the ladies

• Comfortable slippers (make sure the size is right)

• Warm fuzzy blanket

• Electric razor

• Gift certificates for services, such as manicures and massages

Halecky also recommends all types of personal hygiene items.

"My 97-year-old Nellie said that they can be very costly when you add them up!"

The most important gift, however, is time.

"Most seniors love spending time with someone," says Halecky. "Give them the gift of your time. It is priceless and you will always be rewarded in so many ways!"

A Times News reader suggested helping with the purchase of food. If you know a senior citizen who is struggling to make ends meet, a grocery store gift card or the purchase of food items would be a great gift. A gift basket of nonperishables to stock the pantry would be appreciated.

Another reader, MaryAnn McDonald Castka, also had a terrific idea.

"I guess I'm considered a senior, as I am 61, but I sure don't feel like one! LOL! What I would like to receive is nothing! But if anyone wanted to give me a gift, I would rather they make a donation to a charity or even do some volunteer work. I need no material gifts! I am very rich! I have my health, family and friends!"

Here are some other ideas as well:

• A tablet or an iPad. While this may be a bit pricey, the touch-screen technology and large print option makes it senior-friendly.

It also offers the ability to stay social and keep up with friends and relatives, while keeping the brain active and engaged.

• Kitchen or bath towels

• Ergonomic kitchen tools with easy grip handles, or items like jar openers for those with arthritis, or a grabber to help pick things up from the floor or reaching up high

• Photo books. Pick the year's best photos of the family or the grandkids and create a special photo book. Bragging rights are included.

• Wine. A glass of wine may be heart healthy for some seniors.

• Single serve coffee maker

• Food gifts, such as chocolate, fresh fruit or cookies

• Tickets to a movie or live performance, such as a play or concert

• Games, such as oversized playing cards, which are perfect for someone with failing vision; jigsaw puzzles; or game books, such as crosswords, Sudoku or word search

• Books or magazine subscriptions