The BEST Mother's Day gifts that money CAN'T buy...

We can rack our brain trying to shop for the perfect gift for seniors and grandparents.  One that they actually want and will actually use.  (I'm thinking of the microwave we got my grandmother back in the 90's that she refused to use...)   Many seniors don't have room for more possessions or already have everything that they need.  Often what they really want and is most meaningful to them is spending TIME with loved ones.  

 Here are some meaningful activities to spend TIME together crafting special memories that are free (or close to it!):

 For the cook or the "foodie" mom:

1. Cook a family recipe together or make one of her favorites and bring it when you come to visit

2.  Frame a favorite family recipe and have her tell you her memories of the special times she made it

3.  Have an outdoor (or indoor) picnic with some of her favorites from a local restaurant or deli

For the mom who could loves a good puzzle or mystery:

1. Bring a  special jigsaw puzzle featuring a hobby or interest or favorite vacation spot that you can work on together

2.  Have a game day and bring a favorite board or card game and snacks to enjoy together

3.  Solve a "mystery" together with a game like Clue or an "unsolved mystery game" like these from Amazon:

Junior Detective or Unsolved Case Files

For the entertainer and social butterfly mom:

1.  Bring some pretty paper plates and napkins to have on hand to make it easier for her to host "get togethers" with friends or other residents

2.  Bring some prepared treats (or even frozen ones) that she can bring easily out when friends come by

3.  Fresh flowers are always appreciated and can bring some outdoors into people who aren't able to get around outside easily

For the mom who likes to get out and about:

1.  Take her to her favorite museum (and look into wheelchair rental if mobility or endurance is an issue).  If she can't get out, many museums now have virtual visits that you can sit and watch together.

2.  Take her for a stroll or a drive through nearby gardens and get to enjoy some springtime sunshine and the smell of fresh cut grass

3.  A movie theater is a great way to sit back and get immersed in a story.  Most theaters all have wheelchair accomodations and it is an activity that all ages can enjoy.  Not into movies?  Many museums have theaters with documentaries that might be of interest to her

Remember, we can look and look for the perfect gift and often that perfect gift is time itself.  Enjoy and Happy Mother's Day!!!