It's the season to deck the halls, gather around the Christmas tree, and spend quality time with family and friends. Because of the ongoing threat of COVID-19, this year's holiday season may be markedly different for older adults all over the world, according to a recent report. Elderly people who stay at home during the holidays may experience increased feelings of loneliness and depression instead of the festive sights, sounds, and smells of the season.

The importance of providing opportunities for aging loved ones to connect with family and create meaningful memories is more important than ever during this holiday season for those who care for them. The National Poll on Healthy Aging conducted by the University of California, San Francisco found that more than half of older adults (56 percent) reported feeling isolated from others in June 2020, more than doubling (27 percent) in just two years, according to the survey results.

Lakelyn Hogan, gerontologist and caregiver advocate at Home Instead Senior Care, said, "There's no doubt that this holiday season will be different from any other." "However, the pandemic does not have to detract from the holiday spirit of older adults. When combined with a little imagination and foresight, you can still find creative ways to include elderly relatives and friends, or even start your own holiday tradition, while also reminding them of your affection."

However, even though distance may separate older adults from the people they care about, family caregivers can help them enjoy this special and festive time of year by giving them an original gift, creating an entirely new memory, and providing them with innovative ways to stay in touch with family and friends. Hogan recommends the following gift ideas for seniors on your holiday shopping list, according to his experience.

5 Great Holiday Gift Ideas for Senior Citizens

To look forward to in the form of gifts The holidays are all about spending quality time with family and friends. While in-person celebrations may not be possible for everyone this year, there are virtual alternatives to help you keep the memories going. When it comes to beer or wine, for example, you can arrange a private virtual tasting through online vineyards for your special someone. If they're in need of a good laugh, they should consider purchasing tickets to a comedy show online. You should consider enrolling them in a virtual fitness program designed specifically for older adults if they're looking for fun ways to stay active at home.

Gifts that are nostalgic or sentimental

Individualized keepsakes such as scrapbooks, photo phone cases, or a digitized home movie can elicit fond memories and stories from seniors as they reflect on their lives in the past. Alternatively, you could express your affection through words by inviting friends and family to contribute to an album or shadow box filled with short notes or letters. A positive message or a personal story from his or her life is shared with the group.

Gifts that are useful

A meaningful gift does not have to be large and expensive in order to be appreciated — a blanket, socks, or gift cards are among the most popular items on senior citizens' wish lists, respectively. A gift certificate to a favorite restaurant or meal delivery service can be the ideal present for those who would like to take the night off from cooking and relaxing.

Gifts that will keep the recipient entertained and occupied

Books, jigsaw puzzles, and crossword puzzles can be a great source of entertainment, as they keep the mind active and prevent boredom, which is especially important for seniors who are confined to their homes during the winter months. Consider purchasing a monthly subscription box that will deliver a surprise to their doorstep on a consistent basis. You can choose from an enormous variety of themes and options, including cooking, books, candles, and gardening.

The gift of a new holiday tradition is a wonderful thing

The decision to hold a virtual or socially distanced celebration will be personal, and it will be influenced by a variety of factors, including local regulations and the health conditions of your guests. If an elderly person is unable to attend a holiday celebration in person, you can adapt your favorite holiday traditions to keep them connected. They'll appreciate it if you send them some special ornaments or a sachet of fragrant-dried balsam pine needles so they can enjoy the scent of the Christmas tree. Alternatively, you could dress up their front door with holiday wreaths, garlands, strings of lights, and battery-operated candles.

As you finish up your holiday shopping, it's important to remember that, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, this year's festivities will most likely be different from previous years. Allow yourself the time and space to grieve this reality — and then let go of any past expectations or comparisons that you may have held onto as a result of that grieving process. The ability to navigate this season with hope, peace, and joy is enhanced by reminding yourself of the true reasons for your celebration.