What to Donate to the Elderly

Senior citizens, often on fixed incomes, can sometimes have difficulty purchasing all the items they need to stay safe and healthy in their homes. Even seniors living in care facilities may find themselves in need of items like new blankets, towels, or toiletry items. Keep the following list of useful items you can donate to senior citizens next time you are cleaning out your closet or have a little extra money when shopping.

What To Donate to The Elderly

Blankets. Blankets, throws, and shaws can all be helpful for seniors. As we age, we have less fat, slower circulation, and a slower metabolism, all of which can make us cold. Blankets and throws can help an elderly adult stay warm and cozy, especially in chillier months.

Toiletry items like soaps and lotions. Fancy soaps and lotions go a long way to helping us feel clean and fresh, and they provide a mental health boost on tough days. This doesn’t change as we age, and seniors— especially those in care facilities—still enjoy feeling clean and smelling nice. Be sure to check for allergens and care facility rules when donating.

Disposable undergarments. Disposable undergarments are expensive, especially considering you use them once and throw them away. But they provide seniors a feeling of safety and comfort. They are a great donation item for someone on a fixed or low income.

Diabetic socks. One in four adults over the age of 65 have type-2 diabetes. Diabetic socks help with circulation and usually have no-slip grips on the bottom to make getting around safer and easier.

Towels. Who doesn’t love a clean, fluffy towel when they get out of the shower? Wrapping up in a clean towel is good hygiene and feels great on thinner skin.

Large print books. Vision loss happens with aging; it can also result from age-related illnesses and diseases. Large print books in any genre are popular with seniors.

Games and puzzles. Puzzles and other games provide seniors with a great way to stay busy, and they have the added bonus of offering mental stimulation. They also encourage socialization, something many seniors crave.

Denture cleaners and adhesives. This is not a donation item people generally think of unless they themselves wear dentures. Keeping them clean and having a strong adhesive to keep them in place when eating are very important for denture wearers.

Senior-friendly manicure and pedicure kits. These aren’t just for senior women—nail clippers that are easy to use without a lot of grip strength are helpful for all elderly adults.

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If you’re donating directly to an individual or an organization that supports seniors at home, check their website or give them a call to see if they have a list of most-requested items.

If you want to donate to a senior living or care facility but aren’t sure what they need, don’t be afraid to contact the facility directly. They know best what their residents need and will likely appreciate the extra step to ensure those in their care are receiving items they can really use.