What to get for male 80 year old family friend for Christmas?

[TricNorthCarolina]

I'm doing a big family lunch on the 26th & my dad has asked that I invite one of his old friends as he has limited family & no one around to spend the holidays with. He got divorced over 40 years ago, never had a relationship since & 1 of his 2 children lives overseas.

I'm more than happy to have him round & have grown up with popping in a few times a year so he's not a stranger but I also dont know him really well either.

Id like to give him a few token bits to make him feel welcome (especially as we'll be exchanging family presents when he is there).

Please share any ideas for what I could get him!

He doesn't drink, financially struggles somewhat as is still working at 80 to make ends meet, doesnt go on holiday, has no hobbies that my dad is aware of & my dad has been useless at advising me what I could get him.

Any ideas gratefully received- thank you

A plant. Cyclamen is very cheerful and he can have it on his windowsill and/or plant it out in the garden if he has one.

Something nice to eat - could even include a mini cheese board (would need clever timing/storage in fridge etc before giving!).
Gilet - if financially struggling then helps to keep warm in the house. know a few elderly people who love them.

Biscuits?

Marble solitaire game

Good ideas, thank you

Small collection of savoury items - special crackers, a (not too strong) chilli sauce, jar of unusual pickles, couple of small unusual cheeses all in a covered shoe box (easy to take home). What a kind thought 💐

Yeah I would second a homemade hamper with nice food bits. Maybe a gift pack of nice ales/beers. Can you find out from your dad if he would like any books on a certain subject?

Scarf, socks, gloves, wooly hat (one or a couple of those)
Amazon voucher
Chocolates
Potted plant
Posh coffee or hot chocolate
Bath salts/nice bubble bath or shower gel

Hot water bottle

A nice calendar?

A book of quick crossword puzzles?
Some nice biscuits?
Does he do jigsaw puzzles?
Hamper is a nice idea (depending on budget).

Does he live somewhere where he could hang a bird feeder?

heated blanket

I’d make him a hamper of practical foods, puzzle books or a jigsaw and maybe a throw he could use to keep himself warm.

Add in a pack of playing cards

M&S Smellies gift set

This goes down well with the older crowd.