Senior citizens are often hard to buy for. They don’t want clutter as they may have recently downsized or are thinking about it. They have their favorites in life and aren’t leading the charge to experiment with something new. They may have limited mobility, or do not have access to a car, so they may be dependent on being driven by someone.
Buying them a gift certificate can be a good idea, if you know what they like and you’re able to take them there to spend it because they most likely won’t do so online. Before you go out and buy them a gift card, think about this other option that may make your gift the most valuable one they receive.
Give the Gift of Health
You may be surprised when you look at the businesses included in your local chamber currency program. You’ll see your share of bistros and boutiques, but you may also see a lot of local healthcare providers. Dentists, eye doctors, dermatologists, even our furry friend’s doctors often join the currency program.
The inclusion of these medical providers can make chamber currency very valuable to people on a fixed income. Social Security only covers so much of their medical needs. Even if their basic healthcare costs are covered, a chamber gift certificate (with a vision/eye doctor participant) can be used for a second pair of eyeglasses or something that would otherwise be considered a luxury.
Take a close look at the merchants included in your chamber’s local currency program. You may be surprised at the number and types of businesses. This number is always growing so if you haven’t looked at them since last holiday season it’s time to look again.
When your loved ones tell you they “don’t need anything,” what they really mean is they don’t need any more junk and clutter. Giving the gift of chamber bucks allows them to select what makes the most sense for them. Often for retirees, the costs of healthcare can be large. Chamber gift certificates are a great way to help them pay for some of the cost without embarrassing them by handing over money.
