10 Healthy Gifts to Give this Holiday Season

10 Healthy Gifts to Give this Holiday Season

If you’re looking for special gifts to give to people you love or care about this holiday season, give them something they might not expect—even if you are a nurse—a healthy gift.

Teri Dreher, RN, iRNPA, CCM, a Board Certified Patient Advocate and founder of Seniors Alone Guardianship & Advocacy Services and NShore Patient Advocates, came up with a ton of great ideas for health-related gifts that she shared with us.

As for figuring out how to give healthy gifts, Dreher says, “Think in terms of gifts that support a healthy lifestyle and emotional well-being or that emphasize relationships over material things. Such gifts come in all shapes and price points. With a little thought, you can find such gifts for everyone on your list—from your nearest and dearest to your children’s teachers and your neighbors.”

 

 

1. A fitness track or smart watch.

For the person who wants to start up or increase their fitness program. “These irresistible gadgets can be highly motivational,” says Dreher.


 

2. A health club membership or session with a personal trainer.

These are great for someone who has been told to start a fitness program, but needs motivation. (We add that you should make sure this will be received well. Some folks might get upset if they wouldn’t want it.)


 

3. A getaway for two.

“People who take vacations live longer. Surprise your honey or your bestie with a long weekend somewhere warm and fun.”


 

4. A massage gift card.

“Who is the most stressed-out friend you have? Gift them with a soothing massage—a gentle reminder to slow down and take care of themselves.”


 

5. A pet.

“People would get out to walk a dog, thereby getting exercise as well as living longer and healthier. This is a personal gift, though, and should be wanted/needed and come with an offer to sit when the loved older person needs a break. Also think about the lifespan of each party. An older rescue dog who is housebroken may be ideal for a lonely senior. It gives them a reason to get up and care for someone else and is a source of unconditional love and affection. A mild-mannered rescue cat would be a wonderful gift. An older cat would be calmer and sleep on the lap of an older person, providing comfort for both of them.”


 

6. A gift card for a bookstore or books that will encourage learning or mental, physical, and spiritual growth.

“[Put them] in a basket with coffee/tea, a special mug, a warming neck wrap for sore muscles, etc. Wrap everything in love, not hints to control of change the person. Play on their interests.”


 

7. A season of snowplowing.

“The link between heart attacks and snow shoveling is real. A winter of snow-clearing services make a great gift for an older family member.”


 

8. An air fryer, hot pot, or sparkling water maker.

“These kitchen appliances encourage easy, healthful food prep. Pair with a cookbook and starter supplies.”


 

9. Nuts, dried fruit, or a fruit basket.

“A healthier alternative to cookies or candy. You’ll be surprised how many people will love this.”


 

10. A little of your time.

Don’t forget senior orphans—elderly people who are alone. “Not only do they have no one to exchange gifts with this holiday season, they may be silently struggling to get by. Bringing over an occasional meal and offering a little company allows you to keep an eye on them. And if at some point you see that they need help, contact your local senior organization or social service agency. Don’t let them fall through the cracks,” says Dreher.


 

Healthy Holiday Gift Ideas

Healthy Holiday Gift Ideas

The holidays are just around the corner! Many of you are looking for healthy holiday gift ideas and thinking about spending money on things that promote the health and wellness of your loved ones. To maximize the joys of the holidays and to show how much you care about your loved ones this year, here are some healthy and meaningful holiday gifts that won’t cost a fortune.

1. Fitness Tracker, Pedometer, and Heart Rate Monitor.

These gifts can help encourage your loved one to keep moving and can make them mindful of how much they are moving. Some only feature step counting, heart rate monitoring, and reliable sleep tracking; others have a built-in GPS or WiFi capability. You can find these gifts for around $50 or less, but you can spend more if your budget allows.

2. Healthy Cookbooks.

There are dozens of amazing cookbooks out there with recipes that are nutritious and include everything from salads to instant pot recipes. A healthy cookbook would make a great gift for your loved ones who like to cook.

3. A Gourmet Gift Basket.

A gourmet basket of fruits, an assortment of nuts, bottles of almond or olive oil or balsamic vinegar, are all great healthy gifts. Giving these gifts is a perfect way to show your care and love and also add colorful addition to their home.

4. Aroma Essential Oil Diffuser or Beeswax Candles.

Both diffusing aroma essential oils and beeswax candles are safe and can help reduce indoor air pollution. Not only is it functional and practical, but also healthy and beautiful.

5. Motivational Quote Art Prints and a Mouse Pad.

Both cute art prints and a decorative mouse pad are cheerful and they are perfect gifts to add a touch of inspiration without overwhelming a space. They can make someone smile and boost the mood of your loved one.

6. Hand Cream Gift Set and Travel Size Hand Sanitizer, Assorted Scents.

Both hand cream and hand sanitizer are great gifts for everyone this time of year—and they are inexpensive. They can be used at home and outside. Pick a scent you know your loved one is crazy about, or opt for a calm-inducing classic like eucalyptus or spearmint.

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