Many seniors still live a very active lifestyle regardless of the number of their age. Not every older adult is frail and in need of assistance.

So, your standard gifts for elderly seniors aren’t going to do for this group of fit older adults.

Seniors living more active lifestyles will be more interested in gifts of:

• Nutrition-boosting appliances such as blenders, smoothie makers, and infusers,
• Breathable workout attire made of natural fibers that come in temperature-regulating layers,
• Warming gifts for outdoors like heated gloved and downy coats,
• Fitness gear, including ergonomic walking sticks, yoga gear, and swimming equipment.

Here are our top gift recommendations for active older adults.

If you’re short on time, the gifts most people would be glad to get come first, and a few you might not have thought of come last.

Best Gifts for Active Seniors

Gaoye Blue Light Reading Glasses

Reading glasses are one of those gifts that gets used every single day. If the recipient squints at menus, medicine labels, or the phone, a good pair of readers fixes that fast.

This set from Gaoye comes with six pairs of men’s reading glasses, all in 1.5 strength. That’s the amount of magnification in the lenses, and 1.5 is on the milder side. They’re meant for someone who has trouble with small print or seeing things up close.

The lenses have blue light filtering, which is aimed at people who spend a lot of time on a phone, tablet, or computer. The frames are TR90 and have spring hinges, which flex a little so the glasses are comfortable to wear for long stretches.

Six pairs means one can live by the recliner, one by the bed, one in the kitchen, and one in the car. It also means the ones that wander off are less of a crisis.

The catch is the strength. Everyone is a 1.5 here, so you need to know that’s the right number for the person. If you’re not sure, an eye exam will tell you. Readers also aren’t a substitute for a prescription, especially if the two eyes differ or there’s astigmatism.

These are made for men, so they’re not the pick if you’re shopping for a woman.

NineCiFun Fuzzy House Slippers

These are suede slip-on slippers with a faux fur lining and a fleece-lined upper. The thick, plush collar wraps around your foot to keep it warm.

The sole has an anti-slip texture meant to grip the floor, including a wet one. That matters at home, since a slick kitchen or bathroom floor is where many falls happen. The sole also quiets your steps, and the slippers can be worn outside the house too.

They’re a classic moccasin style that you just step into, so there are no laces or straps to deal with. The footbed is described as memory foam. They come in women’s and men’s sizing.

One trade-off: a slip-on with a fuzzy lining is warm, and that may be too much if your feet run hot or you want something for summer. Slip-ons also have no strap or closure at the heel. If you need a snug fit, or you use a brace or swollen feet need adjustment room, a slipper with a fastener may suit you better.

Snug Safe Medical Alert System

Looking for a unique gift idea for a senior or elderly person who lives alone? Here is a great alternative to expensive medical alert systems.

Snug is a free – and friendly – check in service for people living alone. It works via an app on a mobile phone and alerts a senior’s emergency contacts if they don’t check in by their assigned time.

There are free and paid subscription plans available.

The free plan sends text messages to the emergency contacts while the paid Dispatch plan takes additional steps including phone calls to make sure the person is safe. If they can’t reach anyone, they will request a Wellness Check to the cell phone’s last location.

The Dispatch Plan is $9.99 per month but Graying With Grace readers can save 15% by using my discount code GWG15 or the button below.

Orthofeet Non-Binding Dress Socks

The BioSoft line of socks from Orthofeet are specifically designed to address foot pain and increase overall foot comfort.

They are made of super-soft, moisture-wicking, anti-bacterial bamboo fibers and come with padded soles and super stretchy cuffs to better fit swollen feet, ankle, and calves.

Door County Coffee Gourmet Sampler

If the person you’re shopping for drinks coffee every morning, a sampler lets them try a handful of flavors before settling on a favorite.

This Door County Coffee sampler comes with ten 1.5 oz bags. Each bag makes a full 10 to 12 cup pot, so there’s no scooping and no measuring. You open the bag, pour it in the filter, and brew.

The flavors include Breakfast Blend, Cinnamon Hazelnut, Heavenly Caramel, Bourbon Vanilla Cream, Vanilla Creme Brulee, and Peanut Butter Crunch. There are a few with more playful names too, like Highlander Grogg and Turtle’s In a Cup.

It’s medium roast ground coffee, made for a regular drip coffee maker. The coffee is roasted in small batches in Door County, Wisconsin.

One thing to know: these are flavored coffees, and some are quite sweet and dessert-like. If the person you’re buying for likes a plain, strong cup, this one isn’t for them. It’s also ground coffee, so it won’t suit someone who grinds their own beans.

A full pot is a lot for one person, so it works best for someone who drinks several cups a day or shares a pot with a spouse or a visitor.

New Balance 608 V5 Cross Trainer

The New Balance 608 V5 is a cross trainer, which is a fancy name for an everyday athletic shoe that works for walking, gym days, and errands. This pair is white with a wide fit.

The heel has an ABZORB crash pad, which is a cushion meant to soften the impact of each step. A molded insert under the foot adds more comfort for long days on your feet.

The upper is suede leather, so it has some structure to it and should break in to your foot over time. The collar around the ankle uses two densities of foam to help keep you steady. The inside has minimal seams, which matters if rubbing or irritation has ever been a problem for you.

The midsole is EVA foam with an internal shank, a support piece that adds stability through the middle of the foot.

One thing to know: these are traditional shoes, so you’ll still be dealing with laces. If bending over to tie them is hard on your back or throws off your balance, a no-tie lace option is an easy fix. Also, white suede will show dirt, so expect to wipe them down now and then.

Fitness Tracker

This fitness watch from Vive Health tracks your activity and your sleep. It also tracks heart rate and blood pressure throughout the day, which gives you a picture of how your heart is doing.

The screen is bright and clear, and the menus are set up to be easy to use. Most older adults should find it readable without squinting.

One thing to know: a watch like this gives you numbers to keep an eye on, not a medical diagnosis. If a reading worries you, call your doctor. It also suits someone who is happy wearing a watch every day, so it may not be the right fit if a wrist device annoys you.

Vive Health backs its products with a guarantee, and if you have questions before buying, you can call their team at 800-487-3808.

Glerups Wool Slippers

If you want a pair of slippers that feel good and look a bit nicer than the usual house shoe, take a look at these Glerups wool slippers in denim.

They are made from New Zealand wool felt, and the same pair is made for both women and men. The shape follows the natural shape of the foot, and the closed toe covers the front of your foot.

Wool is good at soaking up moisture and helping regulate warmth around your feet. That means they are meant to keep feet comfortable and dry rather than sweaty.

The sole is chrome-free leather, made for indoor use. Leather soles can be slicker than rubber on a smooth floor like tile or hardwood. If you or someone you are shopping for has balance trouble, or has fallen before, a non-skid sole is the safer pick.

They are a slip-on, so there is no fastening to fuss with. They suit someone who wants a warm, natural-fiber slipper for around the house and is steady on their feet.

Yankee Candle Kitchen Spice

A candle is an easy gift for someone who already has everything. The trick is picking a scent that feels like home.

The Yankee Candle Kitchen Spice candle smells like a kitchen with something good in the oven. The scent is ginger, cardamom, cinnamon and clove, with a little sweet orange on top.

It comes in a 22 oz large jar and is rated for up to 150 hours of burn time. It’s made with a plant wax blend and a natural-fiber wick, and it’s made in the USA with globally sourced materials.

It suits someone who loves baking season, or who likes a house that smells warm and lived in.

One thing to watch: a candle this size with up to 150 hours of fragrance fills a room, and some people find strong scents too much. If the person is sensitive to smells, or has asthma or breathing trouble, a scented candle may not be the right gift. Any open flame also needs a steady hand and a spot away from curtains and papers.

Bose QuietComfort Noise Cancelling Headphones

These Bose headphones are built to quiet the world around you. The noise cancelling helps you focus on music, a podcast, or an audiobook without the hum of a busy room getting in the way.

When you do want to hear what’s going on, Aware Mode lets the room back in. Quiet Mode shuts most of it out. You switch between the two, so you can listen to a show and still hear someone call your name.

The ear cushions are plush and the padded band is meant to stay put through long listening sessions. You can also adjust the bass, mid-range, and treble to suit your ears, which is handy if voices sound muddy to you. They run on Bluetooth, charge by USB-C, and give up to 24 hours of playtime.

One thing to know: these are made for music and calls, not as a hearing aid. If hearing loss is the main concern, they won’t replace one. They are also over-ear headphones with a mic, so they suit someone who is comfortable pairing a Bluetooth device.

If they would like something lighter to wear for hours, my guide to lightweight headphones for older adults has more options.

Audible Audiobook Subscription

Many seniors can benefit from an Audiobooks.com subscriptions: from active seniors who like to exercise to elderly people who are homebound or even bedridden.

Audiobooks provide hours of entertainment, education and enlightenment. Plus, they keep seniors minds busy as they pass the time.

If they would rather have a simple device made just for listening, here are some easy audiobook players for seniors.

CrunchCup XL Portable Cereal Cup

The CrunchCup XL is a cereal cup made for people who like breakfast but don’t always have time to sit down for it. It would suit an older adult who is out the door early for a walk, a class, or an appointment.

It’s built from two cups, one for the cereal and one for the milk. Each has its own hole, so the milk and cereal don’t meet until they reach your mouth. No soggy flakes.

You can drink it with one hand and no spoon. You control how fast the milk comes out by putting a finger over the air hole or partly covering it.

It’s made of crack-resistant, BPA-free plastic, and it’s dishwasher safe.

One thing to know: it’s made for cereal and milk, so it won’t be much use to someone who prefers hot oatmeal or eggs. And since you drink from it rather than spoon from a bowl, it takes a little getting used to.

Briggs & Riley Weekender Duffle

If you want one bag for the gym and the occasional overnight trip, the Briggs & Riley Baseline Weekender Duffle is worth a look. It measures 15.5 x 20 x 9 inches, which fits carry-on size requirements for a flight.

The slip-through back panel slides over the handle of a rolling suitcase, so you can stack it on top instead of carrying it through the airport. There is also an adjustable shoulder strap, and the top handle has a leather touchpoint that is softer to hold.

Inside, you get a roomy main compartment and several interior pockets. The lining is a contrasting color, so a black phone charger does not disappear into a black bag. An outside pocket keeps your ID or boarding pass handy at airport security, and a hide-away ID tag keeps your name and address out of sight.

Briggs & Riley bags come with lifetime repair service, which is a real comfort if you plan to use a bag for years.

The trade-off: this is a duffle, not a garment bag. If you need a suit or dress to arrive without wrinkles, you will have to fold it carefully or pack it some other way. It also has one main compartment, so if you like a bag with separate zones for shoes and wet clothes, you may want to bring a pouch or two.

Google Fitbit Inspire 3 Fitness Tracker

The Fitbit Inspire 3 is a fitness tracker for someone who already stays active and wants a clearer picture of how their body is doing. It counts your activity all day and keeps an eye on your heart rate around the clock.

It has more than 40 exercise modes and can recognize some workouts on its own. It also sends reminders to get up and move, which is handy if you tend to sit longer than you mean to.

It tracks sleep too. You get a daily sleep score and a vibrating alarm that wakes you without a noisy buzzer. There are also relaxation breathing sessions, and it sends a notification if it picks up an irregular heart rhythm.

The catch is that it works with a phone. It needs Apple iOS 16.4 or higher, or Android 11.0 or higher, so check that your phone is recent enough. Most of the scores and details are read on the phone, so it is a better fit for someone comfortable with apps. If you want a tracker with no phone involved, this is not the one.

RAZ Memory Cell Phone

This easy to use cell phone for seniors features photo dialing, an emergency button, and displays the time, remaining batter, and signal strength. And, that’s it! Plus caregivers can manage and control the phone settings through a simple portal.

Bose QuietComfort 45 Noise Cancelling Headphones

These high quality noise-cancelling headphones are world renowned for shutting out the world around you. Works with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant too. Wireless and easily synced to a phone, tablet, or PC.

Rubbermaid Brilliance Glass Food Storage

If the person you’re shopping for is always bringing a dish to family dinners, church events, or group lunches, this set of glass containers with lids gives them one way to cook, carry, and store leftovers.

The set has nine containers in assorted sizes, and each one comes with a lid, so that’s 18 pieces in all. Sizes run from 1.3 cups up to 8 cups, so there’s something for a single serving of soup and something bigger for a casserole or a pasta salad.

The lids are airtight and leak-proof, which matters when a dish rides across town on the passenger seat. They’re also vented and microwave-safe, so reheating at the potluck doesn’t splatter. One thing to know: the lids need to be unlatched in the microwave.

The glass bases go in the oven up to 450 degrees F. They’re also freezer-safe and dishwasher-safe (lids on the top rack). The lids fit every Brilliance container, so there’s no hunting for a match. The containers are modular and stack, which saves cupboard space.

The trade-off is that glass is heavier than plastic, and it can break if dropped. Someone with weak wrists or limited grip strength may want to start with just the smaller sizes. This set also doesn’t include an insulated carrier, so a hot dish going to a church supper will need a towel or a bag of its own.

Lively Jitterbug Flip Cell Phone

The Jitterbug Flip2 is a flip phone made for people who want a phone to be a phone. It has a high-contrast screen, big buttons, simple menus, and a powerful speaker.

It also has one-touch speed dial and easy voice services, so calling a family member doesn’t take a lot of button pushing. There’s a help button on the keypad as well.

Once the phone is activated with Lively, a U.S.-based team is available 24/7 for everything from everyday questions to emergencies. You can also add Urgent Response service for extra peace of mind.

Setup can be done online, and there are customer service agents to call if you get stuck.

One thing to know before you buy: this phone only works with Lively phone service. You can’t take it to another carrier, so make sure the plans suit the person you’re buying for.

It also isn’t a fall-detection device or a wearable alert button. If the person you’re shopping for mainly needs something that calls for help on its own, a medical alert system is a better fit. For an active older adult who wants a simple phone that’s easy to see and hear, it’s a sensible choice.

Shape Magazine Subscription Offers

Shape is a fitness magazine for women of all ages who want to live an overall healthy lifestyle. Includes diet tips, workouts, and beauty and fashion trends. 10 issues per year.

Hunt A Killer Murder Mystery Game

If someone on your list likes a good puzzle, Hunt A Killer: Death At The Dive Bar is a murder mystery game you play at the kitchen table.

The story: Nick Webster, a small town bar owner, has died. His fall was ruled an accident, but one of his employees thinks otherwise, and she needs your help to prove it.

You go through forensic files, cross suspects off the list, and piece the clues together. You can work alone or as a team, so it suits a quiet afternoon or an evening with friends and family.

It is rated 1 out of 5 for difficulty, and it is meant for beginners. A game takes 45 to 60 minutes and can be played in a single sitting, so nobody has to remember the plot from one week to the next.

One thing to know: this is a murder mystery set in a bar, and it is designed for ages 14 and up. If your person prefers gentler stories, or wants a puzzle that lasts several evenings, this one may feel short.

If they enjoy it, there are more cases from the same maker to try next.

Project Cloud Leather Shearling Slippers

These men’s slippers have a genuine leather upper and a lining of genuine Australian shearling. Shearling is sheepskin with the wool left on, and it is a very warm thing to put your feet into on a cold morning.

The outsole is EVA, a firm, durable material that is made to grip on different surfaces. The slippers are described as lightweight and easy to slip on, which helps if bending over to fuss with shoes is a chore.

One thing to watch: shearling and leather are not made for getting soaked. If you want something for walking the dog in wet weather, a rubber-soled boot is a better pick. These are best for around the house and dry, chilly days. They are also a men’s style, so they are not the one for the women on your list.

The Finest Craft Beers Club

Get hand-crafted beers shopped each month curated from more than 10,000 US and international breweries. Beers are selected by a panel of brewmasters. Includes a personalized gift message.

Custom4U Medical Alert Necklace

A medical ID only helps if someone sees it. This stainless steel necklace puts your health information on the chest, where first responders tend to look. The Star of Life symbol on the tag tells them to stop and read it.

The engraving is free and you choose it at checkout. Allergies, conditions, medications and an emergency contact are the usual things to put on it.

Space is tight, though. You get four lines of 20 characters each, so write out what matters most before you order. Abbreviations help.

The chain is 22 inches with a 2-inch extension, so it adjusts to fit different people. It only works if it stays on, so it suits someone who will wear it every day. If you’d rather keep your ID in a pocket or purse, this isn’t the right fit.

Shineforu Massage Gun Deep Tissue

This is a massage gun, which works by tapping quickly into the muscle. It comes with 16 interchangeable heads, so you can switch between broad and pointed ones for the neck, back, or legs. It’s a gift that can provide much needed relief for muscle soreness and tightness.

The angled handle lets most people reach their own neck and lower back while sitting down, so no one has to help. It’s also quiet, so it won’t bother anyone in the next room. And it shuts itself off after 15 minutes, which keeps you from working one spot too long.

It has 30 intensity levels, but most people will end up using two or three. Start low. This kind of massager is firm, and it doesn’t give the gentle warmth of a heated pad.

If the person has osteoporosis, takes blood thinners, or has a health condition that worries them, they should ask their doctor before using any massage gun.

It still beats booking an appointment and driving across town for a professional massage.

Meidase P70 Trail Camera

If you have a retired hunter, a birdwatcher, or a backyard nature fan in your life, a trail camera gives them a reason to get outside. The Meidase P70 is motion activated and waterproof, and it records photos and video to an SD card. There’s no subscription, no app and no cell or WiFi signal needed, so it works out in the woods or at the back of the property.

The night vision is the no-glow kind (940nm infrared), so deer and other wildlife are less likely to be spooked. The camera also has its own screen. You can check your aim and play back footage right where it’s mounted, instead of guessing and coming back another day. There’s a solar port too, to keep the batteries topped off for longer stretches.

The trade-off is that you can’t watch from the couch. To see anything, you have to walk out and pull the SD card. It also takes eight AA batteries, and busy nighttime activity will drain them faster than quiet daytime use. If the walk to the camera is a problem, or you want to see pictures on a phone, this isn’t the right fit.

Adjustable Foam-Sleeved Yoga Stick

This is a steel stretching stick covered in foam along its whole length. It comes with an exercise guide, so you have somewhere to start.

The foam is the part that matters if your hands are sore. There are no hard spots to grip, which is easier on arthritic or sensitive hands.

It adjusts to three lengths: 30, 45, and 60 inches. One stick can fit different body sizes and different stretches. It also packs into the included carry bag, handy for travel or a physical therapy appointment.

Two things to know. The first setup takes some patience, because the joints need to be lined up carefully. And at the 60-inch length the stick flexes a bit, so if you want a completely firm bar, it may not feel like what you expected.

Sport-Brella Versa-Brella Umbrella

Hours outside can mean a sunburn and skin damage, and skin tends to get more delicate with age. This umbrella clamps onto the chair, so the shade goes where the person goes. It’s made with UPF 50+ material that blocks 99.5% of UV rays.

The clamp opens up to 1.5 inches and fits tubular and squared surfaces on chairs, wagons, strollers, golf carts, and more. Before you buy, measure the frame it would attach to. If the bar is thicker than 1.5 inches, it won’t hold.

Open, it spans 38 x 39 inches, about 10 square feet of shade. That’s plenty for one person but not for a whole group, so it isn’t a patio umbrella.

A 4-way, 360-degree swivel and two push-button hinges let you tilt it to block the sun from nearly any angle. That matters because the sun moves over an afternoon.

It weighs 1.8 pounds and folds down to 35.04 x 3.35 inches, so it’s easy to toss in a car or take along to a ball game.

Omron Evolv Blood Pressure Monitor

The OMRON Evolv is an upper arm blood pressure monitor. The cuff and the display are built as one piece, so there are no separate tubes or boxes to hook up.

It stores up to 100 readings on the device itself. It also checks for an irregular heartbeat while it takes your blood pressure, which is useful information to bring to your doctor.

If you like keeping records, it connects by Bluetooth to the free OMRON connect app. The app saves your readings, shows trends over time, and lets you send reports to your doctor. It works with Apple Health and Google Fit too.

The trade-off is that the app side needs a smartphone. If you would rather not deal with one, you can still use the monitor on its own, but you would be writing readings down by hand once you pass its 100-reading memory.

It also won’t track your sleep or your steps the way a wristband would. It does one job: measuring blood pressure at your upper arm. For many older adults, that is exactly what the doctor asked for.

Chocolate Covered Espresso Coffee Beans

Chocolate + Coffee = Perfection, right? These medium roasted espresso coffee beans are covered in a rich dark chocolate for the best of both. 2 lbs.

KitchenAid Ultra Power Hand Mixer

KitchenAid makes this hand mixer with five speeds. Speed one is gentle enough for stirring in nuts and chocolate chips, and speed five whips up meringues.

It has a cord, but the cord swivels and can be locked, so it stays out of your way while you mix. A single button press releases the beaters, which is easier than fiddling with them.

It comes with two stainless steel turbo beaters, and they are dishwasher-safe. That means less scrubbing by hand after the batter is done.

One thing to know: it plugs into the wall, so you will need an outlet within reach of where you are working. If you want to move around the kitchen freely, this one won’t do that.

Winlyn Artificial Succulent Arrangement

This one is a fake garden, and I mean that as a compliment. It’s an arrangement of 11 kinds of artificial succulents, planted in a rectangular wooden box with natural pebbles around them.

The mix includes String of Pearls, Zebra Haworthia, Sedum, Echeveria, Jelly Bean, Jade Plant, Cactus, Aeonium and a few others, in shades of green and purple. Some of them have a flocked coating to look more like the real thing. The box is a warm deep brown, with a farmhouse look.

It’s 15 inches wide and suits a table, windowsill, shelf, desk or mantel. There’s no watering, no sunny spot to find, and nothing to wilt while someone is away.

The trade-off is plain enough: it’s not alive. If the person you’re buying for enjoys the daily care of tending a plant, this won’t give them that, and a real succulent garden would.

Asakuki Essential Oil Diffuser

An aromatherapy diffuser is a wonderful way to release a healthful mist into the air. This gift will transmit at various settings, so you can let it run for 6-8 hours with a tank of water.

Anyone who lives in a home with a furnace or heating system that dries out the air needs a humidifier to put some moisture back into the air. And what better way to do that than with favorite aromas too.

Beurer MP32 Electric Nail Drill

When the weather is too cold or mobility is a problem, this at-home kit is an ideal solution. Trimming in-grown toenails and calluses can be dealt with from the comfort and privacy of the home. The kit has all of the pieces needed for a manicure or pedicure.

Plus, it includes an instructional guide that explains when/where to use each of the attachments. An LED light is built in to see the nails better. Consider adding to this gift with a small set of nail polishes, nail polish remover, and toe separators so that they can paint their nails too.

Fiskars Garden Hand Tools Set

Does your loved one have a green thumb? This might be a good time to upgrade their gardening tools. The Fiskars set has three pieces: a hand trowel, a transplanter, and a cultivator.

Together they cover the usual jobs: digging, weeding, turning soil, aerating, and moving a plant from one spot to another. The heads and tines are cast aluminum, which is meant to handle tough soil and resist rust.

The handles are SoftGrip and ergonomic, made to give more control and reduce fatigue. That can matter for someone whose hands tire quickly.

One thing to know: this is a set of three tools, with no carrying case mentioned. If your loved one wants everything stored together, you may want to pair it with a bucket or tote.

Even if the senior doesn’t have a garden or plants yet, a basic set like this could be the nudge toward a new hobby.

For more ideas to get them started, here are some hobbies for seniors that keep hands and minds busy.

CooLeathor Leather Journal Notebook

This stylish journal is packaged in a gift box and has a unique style and look. It’s been said that journaling helps improve memory and mental processing – and it’s a great way to record memories or private thoughts. Would make a good travel or garden diary too.

Oilsky MP3 Player Bluetooth WiFi

A great gift for an older adult who loves music, or a tech-savvy relative, is a senior friendly MP3 player.

Music can bring back good memories and give people something to talk about with those around them. This Oilsky player holds your own music files, and it also has Bluetooth and WiFi. It comes with streaming apps already on it, including Spotify, Amazon Music, Audible and Deezer.

The screen is a 4-inch touchscreen, and it plays video as well as music. It also has a digital noise reduction chip meant to give clearer sound.

The trade-off is that streaming means setting up WiFi and signing in to accounts. That can be a lot for someone who just wants to press play. If that sounds like your person, load it with their favorite songs before you give it to them, or get the accounts set up together.

ResQ Mahi Medical Alert Necklace

The ResQ Mahi is a medical alert necklace made to look like fine jewelry instead of a device. It has a polished finish and a sculptural design, so it works with evening wear and dressy occasions as well as everyday clothes.

When you press for help, you can have the alert go to your chosen contacts, or to trained live agents who are available 24/7. The agents can talk with you, stay on the line, and contact emergency services if needed. It also has automatic fall detection and GPS location tracking, so help can be sent to where you are even if you can’t say where that is.

For someone who would rather wear it on the wrist, I also cover GPS tracking watches for older adults.

One thing to keep in mind: the 24/7 agent service and the other connected features are what make this more than a pretty necklace. Read the plan terms before you buy so you know what is included.

It is also designed as a women’s necklace, so it may not suit someone who prefers a different style of jewelry.

Frameo WiFi Digital Picture Frame

A digital picture frame lets you show family, vacation, and travel photos without being stuck with one or two prints on the mantel.

The Frameo 10.1″ WiFi frame works through a free app (iOS and Android). Family and friends send photos, and videos up to 15 seconds, straight from their phones to the frame, even from far away.

Only people you invite can send things to it, so strangers can’t. You can invite more than one person, which means the whole family can chip in.

The screen is a 10.1-inch touchscreen, and the maker describes it as grandparent-friendly for swiping through pictures. It has 32GB of built-in memory, which the listing says holds over 80,000 photos.

One trade-off: it needs a WiFi connection to receive new pictures. If the person you’re buying for has no internet at home, this one won’t do much for them. Someone in the family also has to set up the app and send the invitations.

If they like taking pictures themselves, they could use a camera to add a few of their own.

Amazon Fire HD 8 Tablet

The Amazon Fire HD 8 is a tablet with an 8″ HD display. Text can be enlarged, so reading books, news or email is easier on the eyes.

It has up to 13 hours of battery life for reading, browsing, watching videos and listening to music. It also has a 5MP rear facing camera for photos, and the design is described as thin, light and durable.

Here is a thoughtful way to give it. Load a few of their favorite books ahead of time. Then add a video calling app so they can sign in and chat with family when you are apart. It runs apps through Amazon’s Appstore, and Facebook is among them.

It comes with 64GB of storage. If that fills up, you can add more with a memory card (sold separately).

One thing to know before you buy. Google Play is not supported, so some apps they already know from a phone may not be there. Some apps also need a subscription. Check that the apps they care about are in the Amazon Appstore.

This tablet suits someone who wants books, shows and video calls in one place. If they only want to read, a simple e-reader may be less to learn.

Keurig K-Express Coffee Maker

For a lot of us, the day doesn’t start until that first cup of coffee. The Keurig K-Express makes one cup at a time from a K-Cup pod, so there’s no pot to make and no half a pot going cold on the burner.

You pick an 8, 10, or 12 ounce cup size with a button. There’s also a strong brew setting if you like your coffee bolder.

The water reservoir is removable and holds 42 ounces, enough for up to 4 cups before you refill it. If you’re brewing into a travel mug, the drip tray comes out to fit mugs up to 7.4 inches tall. It also shuts itself off 5 minutes after the last brew, which is one less thing to remember.

The trade-off is that it only works with pods. If you’d rather use your own ground coffee, you’d need the My K-Cup Universal Reusable Coffee Filter, which is sold separately. And at 4 cups per fill, anyone making coffee for a full table will be refilling the reservoir fairly often.

It suits someone who drinks a cup or two in the morning and wants it quick and simple.

Esky Key Finder Locator

Featuring a transmitter kept at one location and six receivers that can be attached to car keys, house keys, remote controls, phones, or whatever else you might frequently lose or misplace. Hit the button, hear the loud beeps, and find what you’re missing!

Nekteck Shiatsu Neck Massager

This gift can bring welcome relief to a sore neck, tight shoulders, or an achy back after a long day or a good workout. The Nekteck Shiatsu Neck Massager has 16 deep-kneading nodes, and the heat warms up to 104°F.

It has 3 speed levels, so you can pick what feels right. The long handle straps let you control how much pressure you put on it. You can turn the heat off and use the massage alone. It also shuts itself off after 15 minutes and has overheat protection, which is nice peace of mind.

It’s a way to get a massage at home, without booking an appointment or driving across town.

One thing to know: this version is not cordless, so you’ll need to sit near an outlet. Deep kneading can also feel strong, so start on a low speed. If the person has numb skin or a health condition, they should check with their doctor before using heat.

Handy Laundry Folding Step Stool

Whether needing a sturdy non-slick step stool to reach the top of the shelves in the bathroom, the kitchen, or the basement, a reliable folding step stool is an incredibly practical and extremely useful gift.

This encourages that all-important sense of independence and self-reliance while helping to reduce the chances of preventable accidents. See more step stools for seniors here.

Montem Ultra Strong Trekking Poles

These walking poles are actually quite useful for those with mobility issues or those who simply want to take some of the strain off their legs.

Using the sticks to simply walk incorporates more of the upper body in the walking movement much the same way as an elliptical. So, for those who have knee problems, these might help them move around easier for longer walks and hikes.

Amazon Basics RFID-Blocking Passport Wallet

If your recipient travels a lot, or enjoys taking cruises regularly, get this travel wallet. Throw in some luggage tags while you are at it.

This arthritis friendly wallet is perfect for keeping valuables safe while on vacation, big enough to hold a passport, money, cards, phone, and a few other necessities.

Plusinno Fishing Rod Reel Combo

For outdoor-loving seniors who also love to fish, fishing kits like these can be a great gift. Plus, you can even add to this gift by purchasing a fishing or hunting license in their favorite areas for the upcoming seasons.

Good for beginners, it has everything one needs including a carrier bag, fishing rod, reel, line, different lures and hooks, and more. 

Catch Co Mystery Tackle Box

If the man you’re shopping for spends his free time on the water, the Catch Co Mystery Tackle Box Freshwater Bass Juggernaut Fishing Kit is a fun one to hand him. It’s a box of fishing gear built around freshwater bass fishing.

Each box holds about 16 to 22 items from fishing brands, and some of the products are exclusive or limited edition. It also comes with tips and instructions for learning new techniques, plus 5 decals. The company says it has been packing these boxes since 2012.

It suits an angler who likes trying new lures and picking up new methods, and who enjoys opening a box to see what’s in it.

The trade-off is that this kit is made for bass fishing in fresh water. If he fishes for trout, or out in the ocean, a good share of the lures may not fit his kind of fishing. And since you don’t pick the contents, he may end up with a few things he already owns.

Dewalt Tstak Tool Box

If the person you’re shopping for likes to putter in the garage or fix things around the house, a good tool box keeps that hobby going. The DEWALT TSTAK Tool Box (DWST17806) is an extra large one with a lot of room for tools.

It has a removable tray, so the tools you grab most are close at hand and you aren’t digging through the bottom. It’s also water and debris resistant, which helps in a garage or shed.

The boxes stack one on top of the other and lock together with side latches. That makes it easy to add more units later if the collection grows. A built-in handle makes it easier to carry.

One thing to think about: an extra large box full of tools gets heavy. If lifting is hard for the person you’re buying for, a smaller box or a rolling one may suit them better.

Yaktrax Walk Traction Cleats

Yaktrax are nifty little gadgets that slip over your existing boots and shoes to improve traction on snow and ice or when hiking on rougher surfaces.

General Gift Ideas for Active Seniors

1. Nutrition-Boosting Appliances

Even prior to enjoying exercise as apart of that commitment to a healthy lifestyle, the senior needs to take care of their nutrition. Thankfully, this has become easier than ever before.

There are a huge variety of smoothie makers for instance that are available on the market – and they make perfect gifts. These kitchen blenders are also perfect for those who suffer from sensitive stomachs.

You can also gift an infusion blender which allows for the fresh taste of herbs, fruit and vegetables to infuse water for a refreshing way to stay hydrated during exercise.

2. Breathable Workout Attire

Age doesn’t mean not looking good and being comfortable while enjoying an active lifestyle. There are a number of natural fiber workout outfits (even if that workout is a simple walk) that are extremely comfortable.

There are also hypoallergenic versions that are extremely gentle on aging skin. Seniors also tend to feel the extremes of heat and cold more than do younger folk.

3. Warming Gifts For Outdoors

The thermoregulation of the body isn’t always functioning optimally.

There are a number of compact disposable chemical warmer packets that can keep older people comfortable when the temperatures start to dip and they would like to enjoy the outdoors as part of their fitness regime.

A great pair of gloves is also a fabulous gift – and for the tech-savvy senior there are pairs which have been designed to allow for easy use of mobile phones – so they can keep in touch.

4. Walking/Hiking Sticks

A great walking and hiking stick is a gift that is truly useful. They are available in a variety of different materials such as lightweight aluminum or the more traditional hand-carved versions.

If you are feeling especially arty – or you are skilled enough, a walking or hiking stick that is the product of your own creativity and labor – and your individual choice of wood is one of the most heartfelt gifts that any senior can receive.

5. Fitness Gear

Both yoga and swimming are low-impact forms of exercise (and offer great cardio benefits) that remain firm favorites with seniors who enjoy an active lifestyle. For seniors that enjoy getting wet, a swim board is a perfect gift.

There are some great ergonomically designed and comfortable options on the market. For those who enjoy the yoga experience a comfortable and non-slip mat is a great gift for a senior who is on that path to increased strength and flexibility.

Meal Kits and Cookbooks for Someone Who Works Out

Eating well and exercising go together like peanut butter and jelly. If the person you are shopping for stays active, a meal delivery subscription is worth a look.

Meal kits are convenient, and a lot of them lean on healthy ingredients. That gives your loved one more time for fitness and less time standing in the kitchen.

Some services let you pick a style, such as vegetarian, low carb or low calorie. You then choose the exact meals from a menu, set the delivery schedule, and cook. A kit can also teach someone how to prepare healthier meals, which adds to the lifestyle they already have.

A cookbook is the other good choice, and it matters more than you might think. An older adult who works out tends to recover more slowly than a younger person, so what they eat counts for a lot.

A balanced diet helps keep them energized and ready to recover after a hard workout. Plenty of cookbooks are written with seniors in mind, so look for one of those with recipes that keep the body in good shape.

One trade-off: a meal kit still means someone has to cook, and a cookbook means they have to do the shopping too. Think about whether the person enjoys being in the kitchen before you pick between the two.

Choosing a Fitness Tracker or Watch an Older Adult Can Actually Read

A fitness tracker is a good gift for someone who works out. You can find smartwatches and plain fitness trackers that make workouts more useful.

Many of them have built-in heart rate monitors, and some have EKG monitoring. That makes them handy for more than counting steps, especially for someone older.

Start with the screen. Look for one that is bright and clear, with large numbers that are easy to read. An always-on display means no tapping or waking the thing up just to see the time or your steps.

A simpler model can suit someone who only wants steps, distance and calories burned. Others also follow sleep and heart rate through the day.

Battery life and charging matter too. Some models last about a week between charges, and a simple magnetic charger is easier than fiddling with a tiny port. Water resistance is nice, since the watch can stay on in the shower or while washing hands, and it is less likely to get misplaced.

One trade-off: a tracker only helps if the person will wear it and actually look at it. A watch with fancy features but a hard-to-read screen may end up in a drawer, so I would pick the plainer, clearer one.

Wrapping Up

When all is said and done each senior who enjoys an active lifestyle would be delighted to accept any of these gifts. However, it is not the gift alone that will mean the world to them – it is the care and love that is demonstrated in the choice of that gift.