Even though February is the shortest month of the year, it doesn’t always feel that way (especially not during a leap year). The winter solstice is behind us and the days are getting longer, but there’s still quite a bit of winter left. Whether you’re a lifelong lover of it or put off by the commercialism of it all, Valentine’s Day is a good excuse to shake off the midwinter blues and share some warmth with those you love. If you’re having trouble coming up with the perfect gift idea for a beloved older adult, this post is for you!
Gifts from a Grandkid
Valentine’s Day isn’t just about romantic love; it’s a great time for grandkids to show their grandparents how much they care.
- Take the kids to Kidcreate Studio-Greenville for a Valentine’s Day-themed arts or crafts night. If Grandma or Grandpa lives in a senior living community, they will be thrilled to add a new handmade decoration to their home and get the chance to brag about the grandkids every time a neighbor sees it. Even better — consider letting the grandparent be the accompanying caregiver so that they can see their grandkids’ creativity in action!
- Everyone appreciates a homemade baked good, but if the kids aren’t ready for “MasterChef Junior” yet, consider buying some local goodies from The Chocolate Shoppe or Van’s Chocolates in Greenville. Hand-deliver them and stick around — the best gift will be time spent with you. Plus, maybe your senior loved one will share!
- Put together a family photo album. If you can, include old photos from your loved one’s life. But even recent photos of the grandkids can bring a big smile to an older adult’s face. Consider getting the kids involved in a scrapbook-style album, including notes about who is in the photos and when and where they were taken.
Gifts from a Spouse
You likely have quite a few Valentine’s Days behind you, but it’s important to keep the romance alive!
- Treat your special someone to a night on the town. Maybe they’re artistic; if so, check out a Paint & Sip night at Wine and Design Greenville, which is hosting special Valentine’s date nights on Feb. 11 and Feb. 12. Music lovers might enjoy stepping back in time for “A Trip to Motown” at Centre Stage.
- Take your spouse out for some local shopping. Magnolia Scents by Design, which bills itself as “the world’s best smelling scent shop,” offers handmade soaps and other fragrance products to bring a “homey” smell to your residence, and Samantha Grace stocks a wide variety of products and art by locals.
- We know, we know — jewelry for Valentine’s Day is a cliche. But sometimes, cliches stick around for a reason! Find something unique for your one and only at a local jewelry shop, such as MAKE MADE or llyn strong. Or, if your loved one has a piece of jewelry or watch they can no longer wear because it’s in disrepair, take it to The Jeweler’s Box in Greenville and have it repaired as a surprise.
Gifts from Yourself
There’s no wrong time or wrong reason to treat yourself! Snag one of the suggestions above for yourself, or check out these additional options for showing yourself a little love this Valentine’s Day.
- Take yourself out on a date! Enjoy a free lunch and mingle with other senior adults at the Valentine’s Day Tea at the Freetown Community Center. Or, for a more flexible outing, visit The Village of West Greenville for a variety of dining and shopping options, plus galleries by local artists. Go on your own and meet someone new, or take a few friends from your community!
- Why should you only get to enjoy beautiful flowers when someone else buys them for you? Brighten up your living space with a bouquet of your favorite blossoms. Greenville has plenty of great local florists, including Petals & Co. and The Embassy.
The Gift of The Gardens at Eastside
Here at The Gardens, we want our residents and their families to feel well-loved — on Valentine’s Day and all year long. We’re proud to offer the very best in senior living, including opportunities to engage with the Greenville community and an always-full calendar of our own activities and special events. We’d love the chance to talk with you about how you or a loved one can stay happy and healthy at The Gardens at Eastside.
