By Jennifer Blanck, MiCAFE Network Coordinator

Today is Valentine’s Day. Most people think of Valentine’s Day as a romantic holiday reserved primarily for couples. Really it is a time dedicated to showing our love to those around us who we love and care about; our family, friends, classmates, or even coworkers. Our aging loved ones should not be forgotten during this time. Many may now be alone and holidays can make them feel sad and lonely, reminding them of a lost love.

There are many meaningful gift ideas for our senior loved ones. Gifts of time and attention are some of the best things you can give a senior. Taking them on an outing to lunch, a movie, shopping or a simple event doing the things that they used to love to do could be just what the doctor ordered to lift their spirits. You’ll want to keep in mind their mobility and comfort levels to make things as stress free and easy as possible.

Other gift ideas include handmade cards or crafts, treats such as their favorite dish or dessert, continuing a tradition they may have had with a spouse, care packages, pictures or gifts made by their grandchildren, personalized gifts with their name or a favorite photo, visit to spend time with them, or a phone call or Skype time if you live far apart.