As we age our blood vessels lose their elasticity and may thin. In addition, the fat layers that insulate us also tend to thin – the net effect is that the elderly tend to feel the cold much more than those who are in their middle age or younger.
So that is why, when the colder weather sets in (or preferably as the first leaves fall from the trees) a gift that will allow those who are in their ‘Golden Years’ to enjoy a comfortable and warm winter will be tremendously welcome – and a concrete demonstration of the love and care you have for these important family members or friends.
The question is what sort of gift is appropriate?
There are any number to choose from. There is nothing wrong with a traditional quilt or blanket- or even a hot water bottle, but there are new versions of classics, as well as new products that can make the gift that much more meaningful and useful for the elderly.
Here are some great ideas for that extra special gift of love.
Best Gifts to Keep the Elderly Warm and Toasty
Orthofeet BioSoft Padded Sole 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.
WoolFit® Taiga Ankle High Felt Slippers
Looking for a nice pair of supportive slippers that look good too? Take a look at these Taiga wool felt slipper boots from German Slippers.
They sent me a pair to try for myself and I am very happy with them! They have many of the features I recommend in my post about safe slippers for seniors: stretch opening for swollen feet, support for the heel, and non-skid rubber soles.
Plus your feet literally sink into the wool insoles while also giving you good arch support. If you like to keep things “green” they are also sustainably sourced with a zero waste policy. Would you believe they even smell good?!?
Microplush Electric Blanket with Foot Pocket | Amazon.com
Don’t you hate it when you are trying to cuddle on your couch and your feet slip outside the blanket? This cool (but warm too) electric throw blanket has a foot pocket at the bottom. Just tuck your feet into the pocket and throw the blanket over the rest of your body and warm on up.
Bearaby Cotton Napper Weighted Blanket
Weighted blankets seem to have benefits for seniors and I love the Bearaby Cotton Napper Weighted Blanket because it has a soft, homemade feel and appearance with all the benefits of a standard weighted blanket. The knitted fabric keep you cool when you use it and is also easier to maintain than beaded weighted blankets too. Learn more about weighted blankets for seniors here.
Men’s All Elements 3.0 Touchtip Gloves
Many wheelchair users need to wear gloves to protect their hands. These stylish men’s gloves aren’t just waterproof. They also feature touchtip technology, allowing them to be used with touchscreen devices. If someone on your shopping list needs a new pair of gloves, this is an excellent option.
Orthofeet Asheville & Charlotte Orthopedic Slippers for Men & Women
These Podiatrist-approved slippers for men and women feature a roomy and wide toe box with built-in orthotic insoles. Designed to improve the ease of walking and alleviate pain on the heel and ball of the foot from numerous conditions. These are a great choice for older adults who need arch support without sacrificing style.
Pembrook Warm and Easy to Put On Sweat Suits
These embroidered sweatsuit sets are extremely thick for extra warmth while also being super soft for extra comfort. They feature an easy to stretch waistband to make them easier to put on – even with arthritic hands. Two pockets and multiple colors complete the package. Comfy enough to wear around the house but nice enough to wear in public too!
Sleep & Beyond myProtector Mattress Pad
The myProtector mattress pad from Sleep & Beyond adds comfort to a senior’s bedding while also protecting it at the same time.
These mattress pads are filled with a washable wool that helps regulate body temperature while sleeping and is a great gift for people who get too hot or too cold when sleeping. It also wicks away moisture to prevent that clammy feeling.
It also protects the mattress from fluid from sweat and spills. If it gets soiled just throw it in the machine for a quick wash.
Good for You Tea Gift Sampler – Adagio Teas
This selection of loose teas was specifically chosen for their anti-inflammatory benefits and are loaded with anti-oxidants. Oh, and they are delicious too. Varieties included: Turmeric Bliss, Happy Belly, Skinny Tea, and Tea-Tox. A great choice for seniors with arthritis or who just enjoy warming themselves with a cup of tea.
Bodum Bistro Electric Water Kettle | Amazon
Crafted just for tea drinkers, this water kettle has a simple on/off switch operation and automatic shut off. Double wall construction and built-in warmer keep the water a the temperature you desire. Several color choices. BPA-free and easy to clean.
Copper Compression Arthritis Gloves
The Copper Compression Arthritis Gloves keep your hands warm, compressed, and comfortable too. These gloves come in a variety of sizes and are made of a copper-infused material that’s perfect for consistent performance. They have a fingerless design so that you can still move your fingers.
Use my discount code GWG20 to save 20% off of regular price.
Corningware® French White 20-ounce Meal Mug™ with Lid | Amazon
This stoneware mug is made to go from microwave to table and includes a vented, splatter-free lid. Great for heating up oatmeal, hot chocolate, chilis, and soups and then eating right out of the bowl. Seniors can warm their belly and their achy hands by holding onto this warm mug/bowl combo. Dishwasher, freezer, and microwave safe.
Make-at-Home Hot Cocoa Kit
For the serious hot chocolate lover, this cocoa gift includes a 2 pound bag of Ghirardelli premium cocoa mix with a reusable tin and keepsake tote. Plus, they include their recipe for frozen hot chocolate too!
Assorted Coffee Gift Set for Chocolate Lovers | GODIVA
Three delicious chocolate-inspired coffee flavors including Caramel, Hazelnut Creme, and Chocolate Truffle. Carefully chosen coffee beans are selected, ground, and sealed instantly for maximum freshness. 3 bags of 10 oz each.
Rainbow Delight Touch Screen Mittens | GreaterGood
These warm and cozy gloves have conductive fibers woven into the tips of the thumb and index finger so that you can use all your touchscreen gadgets (smartphones, MP3 players, ATMs, GPS devices, and gas pumps) while wearing them.
illy Travel Mug KeepCup
This lightweight illy travel cup is great for keeping hot beverages hot whether at home or on the go. Bright red color is easy to see and find. Unbreakable and dishwasher safe.
Coffee Gift Basket
Here’s a cozy, comforting basket filled with French roast ground coffee, English tea, Ghirardelli hot cocoa, cookies, candy, chocolate and a large mug, perfect for those who enjoy relaxing with a warm beverage and snack.
2-Quart Teakettle | Amazon
Nothing can warm you up better than a cup of hot tea. This whistling teakettle for seniors is made of quality steel with cool to the touch plastic handles that are easy to grasp. Pour spout opens at the touch of a button.
Women’s Tulsa All Weather Shoes | Minnetonka Moccasin
This water-resistant shoe will keep your feet toasty warm and desert dry. The rugged sole provides traction and support and is ready for wherever your cool weather adventures take you. 2 colors available.
Acorn Women’s Spa Wrap Slipper
The Spa Wrap Slipper from Acorn pampers your feet while providing support and a flexible fit. The soft terry cloth fabric feels like velvet on the feet. But, these slippers also have a contoured footbed with an enhanced arch and heel for support and comfort. For swollen feet, the adjustable strap offers a custom fit and makes them easy to take on/off. Machine washable.
Otterbox Elevation 14 Insulated Mug | Amazon
This durable mug from Otter Box (think cell phone cases) is made of stainless steel with a copper lining inside. Keeps beverages at the perfect temperature for hours and takes a lot of abuse.
Home Soft Things Cable Knitted Throw | Amazon.com
A gift like this provides cozy comfort that will keep your loved ones warm and comfortable. Warm afghans like these make for the perfect senior gift. Prone to cold more than in younger years, elderly people will appreciate the opportunity to wrap up tightly no matter the weather. I chose this one because it is super soft and large enough to cover up without being hard to manage.
Teabloom Stovetop & Microwave Safe Glass Teapot | Amazon.com
If your gift recipient’s a tea lover, get them a high quality set of tea accessories including a beautiful, but functional, teapot, a tea infuser, and a set of flavors you think she’ll enjoy. She may have been using the same teapot for decades now, so she’ll appreciate the upgrade.
Single Serve Coffee Maker for K Cup Pods and Ground Coffee | Amazon
No matter how old some of us get, that morning cup of coffee is a mandatory start to the day. This single serve coffee maker is a great gift to provide that single cup of coffee – quickly and easily. No waste, no hassle, just a simple and strong cup of caffeine to get going in the morning.
Vive Neck and Back Shiatsu Massager with Heat
Perfect for heating, massaging, and relaxing sore back and neck muscles, this is a great gift that can provide much needed relief to muscle soreness, muscle tightness, or even pain resulting from these issues. All without having to book an appointment, go across town, and deal with the uncomfortable aspects of getting a massage from a professional.
Sunbeam Microplush Heated Electric Warming Throw | Amazon.com
I have had plenty of times where I just wanted a blanket or wanted to be a little bit warmer, even inside the house. A good electric heating blanket can bring that extra bit of comforting warmth that overcomes cool weather, bad circulation, or any other reason. This is a great gift that helps provide that nice comfortable and toasty relaxing feeling at home.
Mahabis Curve Supportive Slippers for Men and Women
Mahabis Curve slippers feature a flexible and grippy rubber sole with a luxurious Italian wool lining. They are made to be durable and easy to care for. Plus, they have the neoprene heel cup to make sure they say secure on your feet reducing the chance of a fall. Available in multiple colors and men’s and women’s sizing.
BEDSURE Sherpa Soft and Fuzzy Fleece Blanket Throw | Amazon.com
If you’ve never spent the money on a truly special luxury blanket or quilt, you’re missing out. This one is a truly outstanding blanket that is comfortable, warm, cozy, and really will change the entire experience whether getting a good night’s sleep or just taking a little nap. See More Warm Blankets for the Elderly
Conair Therma+Luxe Massaging Heating Pad | Amazon.com
The massage heating pad by Conair is one of the most practical gifts that you can give a person with arthritis. It is the ideal gift for helping soothe away all the aches and pains. You should buy one for your loved one with arthritis and one for yourself too maybe!
PureRelief Deluxe Foot Warmer | Amazon.com
These super warm foot warming slippers have 4 therapeutic heat settings for relieving arthritic foot pain or just warming up cold feet. Inside is a plush machine-washable sherpa micromink lining. Automatic shutoff.
Maddak Tan Hand To Hand Mug by Ableware
The hand to Hand mug is specifically designed for seniors and the elderly and is lightweight at only 6.4 oz. The large handle is easy to hold onto which is an important in a coffee mug for seniors with arthritic hands. Holds 10 oz and is microwave and dishwasher safe.
Simplicity Unisex Plush Spa Hotel Kimono Bath Robe Bathrobe | Amazon.com
Everyone gets cold but seniors especially do. If you know a senior living in a cold environment, consider a plush robe. These are always well-received. Try to make their lives a little more comfortable with a bathrobe. Many people suggest that a bathrobe be given with slippers. But, you have to take into consideration safety issues with slippers and the flooring the recipient has.
General Gift Giving Advice for Cold Natured Elderly Seniors
1. Classic Electric Blanket
The classic senior friendly electric blanket is still one of the most popular gifts. The modern versions are much safer than has traditionally been the case, and the ability to set the blanket at various levels is a great feature. Many Queen sized and King sized versions also allow each side to be set at separate levels of warmth suitable for individual requirements.
2. Humble Pair of Gloves
Another great gift idea is the humble pair of gloves. However, technology has added to the functionality of the traditional pair of gloves. There are many variants that can now be plugged into a USB outlet and this charges integrated wiring that allows the glove to provide extra warmth for computer work on the coldest of days and nights.
There are also fingerless gloves that will allow for the easy use of touch screen devices – which are great for the tech savvy older person who wants to keep in touch at all times – and access the all-important information on the Internet.
3. Wearable Blankets
It seems unbelievable that no one had come up with the idea of a wearable blanket until only about a decade ago – after all the poncho has been around for countless generations.
However, today’s wearable blanket is available in fleece or wool – or a variety of man-made materials. They feature sleeves and a hoodie design that ensures that ears remain cozy – even on the coldest of nights. They are available in a number of sizes – but most people will find that the ‘one size fits all’ option is more than sufficient to cover all the usually exposed parts.
4. Sherpa Blankets
A great variant on the idea is the Sherpa blanket, which although more traditional in shape, they feature a polyester side (usually it’s this material) and one that imitates real wool. They’re usually a bit heavier than traditional blankets – and this adds to that feeling of coziness when they are used.
4. Heated Furniture Covers and Throws
Settling in for a cozy evening with a book, or to take in a movie can be unpleasant for the elderly person (or persons). Furniture can be cold to the touch and take forever to warm up when the only source of heat is the human body.
But there are now electrically heated furniture covers that can keep that couch toasty right from the get-go. They are available in a variety of sizes so there’s bound to be a version that is suitable for almost any furniture.
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A gift of warmth is one that provides not only comfort on the coldest of days or nights – but also provides a heartwarming expression of love and care. With a little thought, it’s easy to find the perfect gift for that extra special older person in your life.
