Stuck for housebound dad's gift

[chinchincharlie]

My dad is in his late 70s. He's pretty much given up on life (long complicated sad story, but nothing that can be done about it).

I used to find him really easy to buy for. He had a lot of interests, was very active etc.

However he no longer goes out, he has cataracts so can't read, going deaf and doesn't listen to music anymore and he doesn't eat ... like at all. There was a particular brand of chocolates I always bought him for Christmas and last time I was at his place I found the last 6 years worth stashed in the fridge.

He's also a bit of an alcoholic and drinks far too much (takes a lot of spills as well) and smokes a pipe, but due to a family history I refuse to buy him any tobacco.

I've got him a photo of our dc, but I'm so stuck what else to get him. My ds and db are super organised and have got him all the easy gifts (socks, jumpers, pj's, aftershave etc) and I'm really stumped.

He won't leave his place either so can't do any lunches or experiences. Doesn't garden. Etc etc.

Any ideas?

Hi OP, I have a couple of ideas. Tell me do you think he could be lonely, I know he cant leave the house. What about your mum? Do you think he might miss her (assuming they were together) or other significant other?

Terrarium
Digital radio
Soup maker
Heated blanket
Colour Cube Sudoku www.happypuzzle.co.uk/products/colour-cube-sudoku.aspx
The Waiter's Tray puzzle

If he might be lonely, how about one of these? www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Arm-Throw-Pillow-Boyfriend-Body-Hug-Girlfriend-Cushion-Bed-Gift-Home-Decor/173131252454?hash=item284f6d42e6:g:gKMAAOSwyi9aTHfq:rk:7:pf:0 It could be covered with a blouse or left as a shirt and when he is in bed or sitting in an armchair, he would have a comforting arm around him which could be sprayed with a loved ones perfume to help bring him comfort

How about a mug? I know that sounds basic, he may like an alcoholic drink but chances are he likes tea/coffee/hot choc or similar and some biscuits which might encourage his appetite, plain or choccie ones as that might be something to encourage eating. www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B015F07B3S/ref=sspa_dk_detail_3?psc=1&tag=mumsnetforum-21

That arm pillow thing is actually one of the saddest things I have ever seen.

As he can't go out, would he let someone come in to him? How about a barber who might be able to do a hot towel shave, haircut or whatever I don't really know what their range is if Im honest (no disrespect to anyone)

How about a nice comfortable cushion or footstool? A dressing gown? Tracksuit bottoms? Or subscription to Netflix or the likes? Electric toothbrush or razor to make things easier for him? Who does his shopping - voucher for there or a lot of microwave meals etc

Meal delivery service? Hamper of shelf stable food.

I bought my dad a ‘sock putterer onerer ‘ he says it’s the best present he’s ever had !

What about an engraved tankard?

Would he like some of those bird feeders that stick to your window? You could top them up when you visit and he might like seeing the birds?

What about audible books?

Does he have WiFi? Would an Alexa or similar work? The amazon ones will play audio books (you’ve bought) if he struggles to read. My dad was very similar before he died. The last gift I got him (last Christmas) was a holder for his coffee pods, he loved it! BUt that would assume he has a coffee machine.

These are great suggestions! Thank you so much. He has a partner (we don't get on) and she is also quite immobile but still gets out a bit.

He won't come to us for Christmas and we're "not allowed" to come round as all her family go round every year. Contentious issue.

Tempted to get him the Alexa so he can argue with it haha!