Surprise Grandma or Grandpa With One of These Useful Gifts for Seniors

"Hearst Magazines and Yahoo may earn commission or revenue on some items through these links."

Gifting to someone age 60 and over is much different than gifting to a teen or young adult. Mostly because they own everything they want and need (within reason, of course). So the next question is, what do you buy someone in their later years of life, such as a grandparent or soon-to-be retiree? Luckily, we put together a list of the best gifts for seniors that they’ll actually use and enjoy — instead of collecting dust on their shelf.

Our list of senior presents include everything from personalized gifts, such as a custom puzzle and vase, to practical presents, such as a phone case wallet and car vacuum. Naturally, we had to sneak a few fun items onto the list as well, such as a water gun and monthly ice cream subscription, because even though they may have reached retirement age, that doesn’t mean their inner child is lost.

If you’re looking for something more specific to their age or your relationship to the individual, be sure to browse through our lists of 60th birthday gift ideas, 65th birthday gift ideas, best grandma gift ideas, and gifts for grandpa after reading this one.

Rechargeable Hand Warmer

If they struggle with chronically cold hands, gift them this rechargeable hand warmer that comes in a variety of cute patterns. It can keep hands warm for up to four hours on a full charge and even comes with a built-in light.

Ice Cream Monthly Subscription

If they like to end their day with a sweet treat, gift them a three, six, nine, or 12-month ice cream subscription where they'll receive 5-6 ice cream pints or 6-24 ice cream sandwiches a month from some of the nation's best creameries.

The Easy and Relaxing Memory Activity Book for Adults

For older adults who spend a lot of time indoors, this book of adult activities will keep them engaged and entertained for days. Pair it with some fun snacks and slippers for a nice gift basket.

RELATED: Best Adult Coloring Books to Make Your Stress Disappear

Classical Black Tea Variety Gift Box

One of the simple pleasures of life is a good cup of tea. If they agree, gift them this black tea variety gift box that comes with 60 teabags in six iconic flavors: Ceylon, English Breakfast, Darjeeling, Earl Grey, English Tea No. 1, and Decaf Evening Tea.

Photo Gallery Collage Puzzle

A fun brain exercise and a family memento, this personalized photo collage puzzle is a great gift and activity for seniors. Choose from four puzzle sizes: 60, 252, 520, and 1014-pieces then upload your favorite photos to Shutterfly.

Rosemary Mint Scalp & Hair Strengthening Oil

If their luscious locks have thinned over the years, help them kickstart new hair growth with this scalp and hair oil. It hydrates and nourishes, which is especially great for those with a dry scalp. The rosemary and mint scent makes hair smell fresh.

180° Self-Care Box

Gift them a one, three, six, or 12-month subscription of this self-care box. Each month follows a different theme with six to nine corresponding full-size products included and a bonus velvet charm bag in every box.

Budding Artistry Flower Arranging

If the senior in your life daydreams about life as a florist or simply loves a beautiful bouquet, they're sure to love this 90-minute floral design class where they'll learn about the art of flower arranging from a master florist.

RELATED: Best Experience Gifts to Give

Swift Slip-On Sneaker

They don't have to sacrifice style for comfort with this pair of fashionable, slip-on sneakers from Birdies — a brand that frequently tops our list of shoe recommendations. Their Swift Slip-On features memory foam cushioning and arch support for a supportive step.

RELATED: Best Shoes for Wide Feet

Murder Mystery Game

They can put their detective and problem solving skills to the test with this murder mystery game where they have to uncover the truth behind a grad student's mysterious death. At a medium difficulty level, they can try to tackle the case by themselves or with up to five other players.

Adventure Force Water Blaster

Hear us out: a water gun could be a great gift for grandparents who want to play with their grandchildren but don't have the ability to run around at their pace. Instead, they can engage in play from a seat near the pool or backyard using water guns.

Monthly Coffee Subscription Box

Add some excitement to their morning cup of joe by gifting them a one, three, six, or 12-month coffee subscription box. Each package contains two types of single origin coffee beans and a card with tasting notes, fun facts, and brewing tips.

Heated Socks with Rechargeable Electric Battery

Warm up their cold feet with a pair of rechargeable-battery, heated socks. They fit any adult-sized foot and come with three adjustable heat settings. They can wear them as a replacement for slippers or as regular socks.

Candle Warmer Lamp

This useful home decor item will soon become their new favorite gadget. Flip on the lamp and warm candles without the flame. This stunning and widely popular item is great for anyone who forgets to blow out their candle flame.

Self-Watering Herb Garden Starter Kit

Perfect for cooks and gardeners alike, this kit comes with everything a budding green thumb needs to start their own organic herb garden. Choose from different herb trios based on the spices they use most.

RELATED: Indoor Garden Kits That'll Help You Grow Your Own Greens

Instant FIRMx Temporary Eye Tightener

If she's concerned about fine lines and wrinkles, gift her this temporary eye tightener. The cream includes a trio of peptides to help smooth and de-puff under-eyes. One reviewer writes, "What sets this product apart is its versatility. Not only can it be used as a targeted eye treatment, but it also doubles as a fantastic primer for under-eye concealer or makeup. I've found that my makeup lasts longer and creases less when I use this eye tightener as a base."

3-In-1 Bluetooth Record Player

Dust off those old vinyls and put them to use with this 3-in-1 bluetooth record player. The device plays music via vinyl, bluetooth, and FM radio. Although dancing is not required, it is highly recommended!

RELATED: Best Gifts for Music Lovers and Musicians

Ultimate Aromatherapy Diffuser & Essential Oil Set

If they're wary about burning candles for fear of a fire, introduce them to an essential oil diffuser. This set comes with a diffuser and 10 essential oils, so their home can always smell spa-like and fresh — no flame needed.

Personalized Book Nook Reading Valet

This book nook provides a home for all of their reading essentials: glasses, a mug, phone, and a book. So if they feel themselves dozing off with a book in hand, they can easily sling it over the nook and never lose their page. Oh, and did we mention the stand can also be personalized?

RELATED: The Best Gifts for Book Lovers That They'll Enjoy as Much as Reading

Handheld Milk Frother

Up their at-home drink game with an easy-to-use handheld frother. They can use it with their milk of choice to create lattes, cappuccinos, mochas, and more. If they're a matcha drinker, they can also use it to blend matcha powder.

RELATED: Cool Kitchen Gadgets Every Smart Home Chef Owns

Glow Skin Brightening Face Scrub for Dark Spots

Give them a pick-me-up with this skin brightening face scrub, specifically made for dark spots. They can use it after the shower for self-care.

iPhone 14" Wallet Case

As a generation that's had to consciously incorporate technology into their lives, it's all too easy to forget their phone; while their wallet, on the other hand, is always top of mind. This 3-in-1 phone case, wallet, and phone stand consolidates the many things they carry day-to-day, making it easier to grab the necessities while on the go.

Packing Cube Quad

Whether they're traveling to see family or enjoying retirement on a Caribbean cruise, they'll love these suitcase packing cubes. Not only will they help them stay organized, but the cubes also allow them to fit more inside of their suitcase (such as a gift or two for the grandkids!)

RELATED: Unique Travel Gifts for Women

Pain Relief Cream

A pesky downside of aging is the added aches and pains. Help your loved one find relief with this magnesium, menthol, and arnica cream that specializes in soothing muscles and relieving swelling.

Aromatherapy Shower Steamers

These are basically bath bombs for the shower, which is great for anyone who doesn't have access to a bath or finds it easier to take a shower.

Sofa Armrest Organizer

Available in multiple colors, this non-slip armrest organizer has six compartments to store essentials while they recline and watch TV. It's made from premium, durable fabric and is available in two size options. This caddy is inexpensive, practical, and will be used all the time.

Cozy Fleece Wrap Shawl With Large Front Pockets

For the senior who is always misplacing their phone, book, iPad, or glasses, this large pocket shawl will allow them to keep their necessities close by, no matter where they're moving around the house.

RELATED: Best Cozy Gift Ideas for Her and Him

Distressed Wood Digital Photo Frame

Display as many pictures as you'd like in this digital photo frame that showcases images via an automatic slideshow. Upload photos to a USB flash drive or SD card and connect to display.

Back Massager

Even if you're not a senior, you can empathize with the dreaded aches and pains many feel as they age. This neck massager could be a great gift for someone who is in search of ways to relax at home.

Deluxe Pears, Apples, and Cheese Gift

They can enjoy charcuterie plates for days with this collection of pears, apples, gouda, sharp white cheddar, and more.

RELATED: Best Food Gifts You Can Have Delivered

Acupressure Slippers

These slippers feature massage buttons that act as pressure points to help improve blood circulation, nerve sensitivity, and general tension. Each set comes with replacement buttons, so there's no need to worry about wearing them out.

RELATED: Best Slippers With Arch Support

Car Vacuum

Although this gift isn't exactly cute or personal, it is practical, making it an ideal present for the pragmatic car-lover. The high-power vacuum will clean up any wet or dry mess in their car, without taking up a ton of space. It connects to the car's lighter port, so no need to whip out the extension cord. The vacuum also comes with three different heads, making it easy for them to clean every inch of their car.

'The Bucket List: 1000 Adventures Big & Small'

Help them figure out their next big trip with this fun book of popular destinations. It dives into specific activities you can do in each place, such as bird watching in Kenya and swimming with dolphins in New Zealand. The Bucket List comes complete with a list of scenic beaches, culinary destinations, historic museums, and must-try experiences along the way.

RELATED: Best Coffee Table Books to Gift Everyone on Your List

LED Neck Reading Light

The perfect reading accessory, this neck reading light would be a practical and slightly unexpected gift for the senior bookworm in your life.

Deluxe Grilled Cheese Sandwich Toaster

Nothing gives you that warm sense of childhood nostalgia quite like an ooey-gooey grilled cheese sandwich. Take them back to the good old days with this grilled cheese toaster that features extra wide slots and a removable toasting basket.

Back Massager with Heat

A massage is the epitome of luxurious pampering. However, they're often expensive and difficult to schedule. With this ergonomically designed back massager, your gift recipient will be able to relieve sore muscles and tension any day of the week from the comfort of their home. The Shiatsu pillow has three different speeds for optimal massaging and is made from soft, durable materials. For less than $40, it's a win for sore shoulders and your bank account.

'Murder Most Puzzling: 20 Mysterious Cases to Solve'

If they love mysteries, this is the perfect gift. Inside, they'll find 20 brain-twisting puzzles to solve, all related to a fictional murder mystery.

Large Print Activity Box

They can say goodbye to boredom with this gift box, packed with cards, crosswords, adult coloring books, and more. Perfect for passing time during their retirement!

My Life Story — So Far

Help your loved one create a lasting keepsake that can be handed down from one generation to the next. Filling out the book together will take your family on a journey through time. The book is divided into nine sections, starting with "The Early Years." Each page comes with a new thought-provoking prompt meant to spark colorful memories.

2-in-1 Digital Tape Measure

Forget old-school tape measures, and gift them this digital tape measure that has a LCD display screen. It boasts accurate measuring, US/metric conversation, and 16-feet of measuring tape.

Temperature Control Smart Mug

If the senior in your life always begins their morning with a piping hot cup of coffee, this mug will revolutionize their routine. Thanks to its extended battery life, the tech mug will now keep their coffee at the perfect temp for up to 80 minutes off the charging pad or all day while on. They can control the device with or without the accompanying app, and its auto sleep mode makes it easy to save battery life.

RELATED: Best Gifts for Coffee Lovers

Monogrammed Pitcher

If you know someone who never fails to have a beautiful bouquet of flowers on their kitchen table, you're going to want to gift them this monogrammed ceramic pitcher that doubles as a vase. With different styles and colors, each glazed vase is different from the next and will bring a personal touch to your loved one's home.

Shiitake Mushroom Log Kit

If your loved one is ready to graduate from herb gardening to produce, get them started with this shiitake mushroom log. Users can re-soak and harvest every six weeks for up to three years, making this a gift that truly lasts.

RELATED: Best Gardening Gifts for the Plant People in Your Life Who Have Everything

Personalized Leather Keychain

Personalize these leather keychains with their name (in all caps). The manufacturer does note that the black and chocolate letters may be harder to read, which is something to keep in mind when customizing. Either way, they'll have all the important keys they need in one place.

'The New York Times' Anniversary Book

Celebrate a milestone birthday or anniversary with a trip through time. All you have to do is provide the date (and any customization wanted), and the creators will collect every front page of The New York Times, starting from the date of your choice.

Owl Eyeglasses Holder

Fair trade artisans in India hand carve each owl out of a single piece of sheesham wood, meaning every single glasses holder is unique. It also doubles as home decor because of its incredible detailing and beautiful finish.

Window Bird Feeder

Perfect for bird watchers or nature enthusiasts, this bird feeder will provide your loved one with entertainment and joy all year 'round.

RELATED: Best Bird Feeders

Flavored Simple Syrup Set

Crafted from organic cane sugar, pure botanicals, and extracts, these unique simple syrups will spice up their go-to coffee, tea, or cocktail. Syrup scientists Leah Monaghan and Barb Stauffer (yes, that's a real thing!) relied on whole ingredients, quality flavor, and local Kentucky flair to make these four syrups. The set even comes with some of their favorite recipes!

Wine Soaps

Bring the wine cellar to your loved one's home with this set of four beautiful handmade soaps. Each all-natural, vegan soap smells of a different wine that'll transport them to the French and Italian countrysides. The bars blend notes from popular wines such as chardonnay and pinot noir, resulting in hints of berries, plums, apples, and citrus.

RELATED: Best Alcohol Gifts for the Cocktail Connoisseur in Your Life

Gradient Puzzle

If they love jigsaw puzzles, give them a serious challenge with this ombre gradient one. It's a great gift for seniors who spend a lot of time indoors.

You Might Also Like

• Oprah’s Favorite Things Of 2022 Is Here—Gift These 20 Amazing Finds This Year

• 40 Best Sentimental Gift Ideas for Loved Ones

• Jennifer Aniston‘s Secret to Glowy Skin On-Screen