In the know.

Father’s Day shopping is always challenging, but finding the perfect gift for a dad who has already downsized their belongings can be even harder than usual. Without a yard to care for or home to maintain, stereotypical gifts like grilling tools or handman gadgets become irrelevant. That’s why we’ve developed our top ten list of gift ideas for dad living in an assisted living community.

1.     Digital Photo Frame: Photos of loved ones become especially important for those who are living in a retirement community. As kids, your dad may have gathered at recess, comparing trading cards with their peers, today, its pictures of their children, grandchildren, and grand puppies that get shown off to those willing to listen. That’s why a digital photo frame is a fun gift your dad can show off to neighbors who pop in or staff who frequent their apartment. The best part is, you’ll be able to preload the device with a large quantity of photos that will scroll across the screen throughout the day, providing little spontaneous moments of joy as they appreciate the images along with the memories they inspire. Some frames even allow the family to send photos to the frame from anywhere in the world to be displayed for your dad. This is especially exciting as your father will get little notifications each morning that a new photo awaits him. Here is a helpful list of digital photo frames to consider.

2. Foldable Utility Cart: While a foldable utility cart isn’t really high in nostalgia, it is a highly usable tool that your loved one with thank you for each time they use it. Most assisted living communities provide regular shopping trips to area stores. During these shopping excursions, your father is sure to use the standard shopping cart at the store, but the foldable utility cart comes in handy when he transports his purchases from the community van to his apartment. While not in use, the device can be easily stored and is light and easy to transport when in use. Here is a helpful list of foldable utility carts perfect for apartment living.

3. Able Tray: An able tray is like a TV tray but with added stability to assist with getting up and down from a seated position, making it a nice addition to an assisted living apartment. Dad can use the tray when snacking, using a tablet or laptop, or enjoying a variety of hobbies from his favorite chair. Most able trays have a swivel feature which allows the user to swing the tray out of the way, then use the stabilizing handle to stand up from a seated position.  A device like this can add a little boost of independence to dad’s day, making the chore of getting up and down from the seated position a simpler task. Here is a helpful example of an able tray.

4. Grabber Tool: Another gadget that can make a big difference in your father’s average day is a simple grabbing tool. Dropping an item on the floor can turn into a major inconvenience if bending or stooping has become a challenge. Therefore, a handy grabbing tool makes all the difference in the world. These devices are easily stored, lightweight to handle, and are simple to use. Here is a helpful list of grabber tools available in today's market.

5. Stationary Kit: This generation of elders grew up with an appreciation of the written word. Many from this era had pen pals, exchanging letters with those they cared for. Consider buying your father a quality stationary kit, complete with cards, envelopes, and stamps. (Going to the post office to get stamps can be challenging if he no longer drives, so offering a nice quantity could be an important part of this gift.) Then, develop an address book with his friends and loved ones’ addresses. While many people have turned to social media to keep in touch, others still appreciate an old fashion letter in the mail. If this sounds like your dad, attractive stationery may be a welcomed idea. Here are some examples, many of which can be personalized.

6. Window Bird Feeder: If your father is the type to enjoy watching various species of birds, he may appreciate a window bird feeder. These feeders are equipped to adhere to the exterior of the window, usually with suction cups. This will give dad an up-close opportunity to observe these little birdy friends. Be sure to include bird feed with your gift so there is no delay to enjoy. Also, you may consider adding a bird guide to help dad identify each of his feathered visitors but be sure to buy the guide that is specific to your region. Here is a link with some window bird feeder examples.

7. Charging Station: Many seniors have multiple smart devices like a phone, tablet, or watch. Help your dad simplify the task of keeping each of these devices charged with a charging station. Rather than scooping up a charger cord that rests on the floor after each use, causing him to stoop down to plug in, a charging station prevents this irritant while also avoiding the battle of charging one device at a time. Instead, a charging station allows for many devices to be charged at once with some stations even offering a wireless option.  Here are some helpful examples of charging stations for smart devices.

8. Self-Stirring Mug: If your dad is a coffee guy, he might really get a kick out of a mug that stirs itself. With magnetic technology at the base of the mug, this mug allows the user to add their cream and sugar, then allow the mug to do its thing with the lid securely on top. Not only is it fun to watch, but the mug adds a new layer of safety from unintended burns that may take place when sloshing hot coffee over the edge of the cup while stirring. Here is an example of top rated self-stirring mugs.

9. Snack Subscription: Subscription based gifts are fun way to give the gift that keeps giving, specifically with gourmet snacks. From candies to jerkies to hot sauces and more, the snack subscription world seems to offer just about anything you can dream of. There are even some that provide snacks from around the world, featuring prominent snack foods from various regions, giving you a new cultural experience each month. If your dad is a foodie, this may be the perfect gift idea for him!  Here is a helpful link with a few examples of online snack subscriptions.

10. Box of Vintage Candy: If a dose of nostalgia is what you are looking for, consider gifting your father a vintage box of candy from his childhood. That’s right! Some online candy vendors have curated gift boxes of candy from each decade. Just the sight of these sugary treats transports you to a simpler time when circus peanuts were the goodie every child longed for. Imagine your dad sharing this box of treats with his neighbors as they discuss their childhood memories as only a group of peers who lived during that era could. Sometimes it is the simplest of gifts that bring the greatest sense of joy.  Here is an example of these decade themed candy boxes.

We hope this list has stimulated some helpful thoughts about celebrating your dad on Father’s Day!

‍