Saturday, February 7, 2009

Choosing Appropriate Gifts

I get friends and colleagues asking me for suggestions on gifts for various occasions. I am certainly no expert. They are just being kind. Lately, someone asked what is the best gift for a couple of elderly relatives.

She was thinking of some foodstuff, such as barbecued meat which is appropriate during this Lunar New Year time-period. Maybe some chocolates and cookies would be nice too and of course, at least a couple of mandarin oranges which are necessary to wish recipients wealth and prosperity in the year ahead.

I always believe in giving practical gifts. If I were to visit an elderly person who is ill and immobile, I should think adult diapers would be a useful gift in addition to foodstuff. What do you think? Can you suggest some others?

8 comments:

  1. Anonymous4:57 PM

    I think adult diapers would only be appropriate if you know of their need for them..coz most stubornly refuse to use them!

    I think buying them a meal would be a good idea too.

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  2. You have a point, MBL, unless the person is already using them. Food is still a safe bet, eh?

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  3. I also agree - foodstuffs are best when it comes to gifts for elderly people. A coincidence you are posting about gifts cos I received unexpected gift and blogged about it : )

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  4. Thanks and hey, congrats on your prize, all the way from Shanghai!

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  5. I'm sure elderly people would love foodstuff, my grandma is a good example lol. Some senior citizens would feel insulted if you give them diapers, you know, they're more sensitive and stuff.

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  6. JL, you'd vote for foodstuff too, eh? Looks like it's the practical choice. Good input on the sensitivity bit. Thanks.

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  7. i agree food is still the safest choice. my first reaction is usually getting what they needed the most currently, or maybe something they mentioned hope to get just previously. but it is only possible if we're close enough with them. :)

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  8. Hi Levian, great thought-process there. I always think it's advisable to give gifts that are useful. That way, they are valued. Thank you for coming by. So nice to have you here.

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