[Last updated September 10, 2025]
What do you get the man who swears he’s content with a bag of nuts and a new smoke detector? These gift ideas for Dad or Grandpa have you covered. From gadgets to games to creature comforts — and even a fancy bowl for those nuts — here are some thoughtful gifts for the lovable senior man in your life.
*Prices correct at time of publishing.
A handsome rain gauge
Uncommon Goods Copper Rain Gauge, $45
It’s a mystery why some men become obsessed with precipitation levels as they age, but this attractive copper rain gauge from Uncommon Goods gives Dad or Grandpa all the tools he needs to speak with authority on every inch of water.
You can choose a simple tabletop model, a mounted version, or a garden stake. All he needs is access to an outside area.
His very own star
Name-a-star packages starting at $29.95
The International Star Registry has been naming stars for humans for over 40 years, and now Dad can become a star outside his family. He’ll receive a personalized certificate with the star name, a sky chart, and coordinates, with options to upgrade the package with even more gifts.
The real beauty of this gift is the message it conveys: that he will always be a part of your universe.
Lying-down glasses
If the senior man in your life loves gadgets, he’ll adore these glasses. Made with 90-degree prisms, they angle images from a TV or book so he can see them while lying flat on his back. This can reduce neck pain and eye strain, as well as help those confined to bed. They also fit over prescription glasses.
Watercolor house portrait
Etsy house portrait starting at $26.65
Photos and paintings make wonderful gifts for Dad or Grandpa. These house portraits uniquely capture the memory of a beloved home, whether it’s a recently farewelled home, a childhood home, or even the one they still live in. All that’s required is a photo of the house, which will be transformed into a watercolor-style print. Try to frame the print ahead of time. This can be an especially thoughtful gift if your loved one resides in a senior living community. Photos and prints can make their room feel more like home. If they have memory loss, it’s also a lovely way to help trigger fond memories.
Effortless nut bowl
Etsy two-tier nut bowl starting at $30.99
As far as gifts for Dad go, nuts are a popular choice. But the packaging is never practical, and if we’re talking pistachios, what a mess. This clever bowl has a holding area for nuts and a slot for shells, which drop into a hidden tier below. It’s made from plant-based biodegradable plastic, and you can personalize the base with his name. Pair it with a bag of his favorite nuts.
Oversized heated throw blanket
Creating a cozy environment is key to feeling at home in a new community, and blankets can provide comfort, security, and familiarity. This ultra-soft heated blanket is ideal for use in bed or a favorite chair and brings maximum comfort. It has three temperature settings and, most importantly, a two-hour auto shut-off timer for safety.
Quality wireless headphones
Sony noise-canceling Bluetooth headphones, $98
Over-ear headphones can help seniors enjoy TV, music, and audiobooks by reducing outside noise and fitting comfortably over hearing aids. These cushioned, lightweight headphones offer up to 35 hours of battery life, include a microphone for cell phone use, and are cord-free, though they do come with a cord jack if required for older devices.
Personalized cribbage board
Uncommon Goods custom lake cribbage board, $79
For the man who loves cribbage and longs for peaceful days by his favorite lake, this custom-made cherrywood cribbage board allows you to add a personal and heartfelt upgrade to a classic pastime. Choose from over 7,500 lakes across 80 countries to have one of his favorite destinations carved into the board.
Cozy slippers
Fireside by Dearfoams shearling moccasin slippers, $40 to $70
Slippers are that one item we seem to keep forever, holes and all. Unfortunately, this can become dangerous for seniors, who are at an increased risk of falls. Old, worn slippers can be ill-fitting and hazardous.
These moccasin slippers, with their easy slip-on design, supportive back, sturdy grip, and soft shearling wool, make a thoughtful gift for Grandpa.
A colossal book of crosswords
New York Times Mega Book of Sunday Crosswords, $15.41
Puzzles are an especially important activity for older adults. They engage the mind, memory, and problem-solving skills, which all support greater cognitive function.
This not-so-little book contains 500 of extra-large, themed Sunday puzzles, edited by New York Times crossword legend Will Shortz.
Audiobook subscription
Audible membership, from $7.95 a month
Listening to stories engages the brain, stimulates memory, and improves focus. It can also help combat loneliness and feelings of isolation by providing a sense of companionship. That’s why an Audible subscription makes such a fantastic gift for Dad. With unlimited streaming and the ability to save titles for listening offline, Audible’s catalog of audiobooks and podcasts provides endless entertainment, covering every book, interest, or hobby you could imagine.
Comfy flannel PJs
Majestic International cotton flannel PJs, $95
These flannel pajamas are sure to become Grandpa’s favorites, thanks to their relaxed fit and soft, fuzzy texture. Made from 100% cotton and available in four plaid patterns, they’re breathable and comfortable all night long. With an elastic waistband and easy-care fabric, they’re as practical as they are cozy.
Fill-in-the-blank book
What I Love About Grandpa Fill In the Love Book, $9.99
This charming little book lets you celebrate Grandpa in your own words. Fill in the prompts to share what makes him special, creating a one-of-a-kind keepsake he’ll treasure and revisit, again and again. Whether heartfelt, funny, or a little cheeky, it’s a gift full of personality and love.
Massage pillow with heat
HoMedics portable shiatsu massager, $49.99
Whether he’s suffering from age-related aches and pains or just needs to relax, your senior loved one will greatly appreciate this massage pillow. Circular kneading nodes deliver an authentic shiatsu massage, while heat and vibration soothe the neck, back, and shoulders. It’s simple to use with a soft, portable design that can be taken anywhere.
