FiftyUp Thrifty Gift Ideas
Here we are already in December, Christmas is just around the corner, and we’ve all got a FiftyUp who’s impossible to buy for. The traditional default is socks and undies but surely we can do better than that!
So we thought we’d have a look at some gift ideas that are practical and economical at the same time.
Emailing is inexpensive and fast, but so impersonal. How about a back to the future gift like a box of envelopes, some quality paper, pens and a book of stamps? You could even pre-address a few of the envelopes with your name and address so you can get a letter or two!
For someone in a confined space, a wall calendar is nice, one that you have with family photos appropriate for each month. Then, on the calendar you can write birthdays and other special days for them.
Are they on prescriptions? Many seniors are, and even if they have good insurance or Medicare those gap payments add up. Get them a gift card to their pharmacy.
So many FiftyUps love watching television. Those on a tight budget would certainly appreciate it if you paid for a month or more of their subscription television or internet.
Do they like to eat out? You could always get a gift voucher to their favourite restaurant, and remember some restaurants will even deliver.
Food gifts are always appreciated, especially something non perishable, we all like the comfort of knowing the pantry is stocked.
And speaking of food, try having a look at the websites of the big supermarket chains. Woolworths and Coles have a variety of gift cards for affordable amounts and you will know the gift is fully appreciated and wont be going to waste in a cupboard. That idea even extends to petrol. It seems mundane, but it is such an important expense these days.
If all else fails, here’s a novel idea. Most of the major newspapers offer a service these days where you can order a copy of the front page in its original form from a date, usually the birthday, of the person you are buying for. Do you know what happened in the world on the day you were born?
And finally an idea from my own Mum. It sounds a little schmaltzy but as with most mums’ advice it is spot on … the best present is to be present.
Warmest Regards,
John and the FiftyUp Club Team
