When someone has been around for 80 years, the last thing they probably need is more “stuff”. Trying to find things that an octogenarian needs or even wants is a hard task. The main thing to keep in mind when trying to think of great 80th birthday gift ideas is quality of life. Some tasks can be difficult, even impossible when you are 80. Giving the gift of independence, freedom and self care will be the most valuable thing for an 80 year old. Read on for some great gift ideas that will have your birthday boy enjoying his golden years.

1. 80 Memories from 80 People

80 cheers to name

This gift might take a bit of planning on your part but the results will be so worth it. In the weeks leading up to his birthday, send postcards to 80 of his friends and family members. You could purchase a PDF file allowing you to print them yourself like this. Or you could order them already printed on cardstock like these ones. Request that each person write a special message, share a story or anecdote honoring the birthday boy. Sending them self addressed and stamped will make it easier for return. The week of his birthday, the messages should start rolling in. A birthday gift that will keep on giving.

2. Massage

massage as 80th birthday gift idea

As we get older, our bodies develop all kinds of aches and pains. People of any age appreciate a nice massage every now and again. Plus, massage is a holistic way to treat so many different ailments. It’s also something that not alot of people think of investing in for themselves. While this gift isn’t for everyone (some people may be funny about touch), think about whether the man of the hour would appreciate 60 minutes of therapeutic self care or not. If so, find a practitioner that will come right to your home here. If a personal massage isn’t in the cards, maybe a massage gun like these, might be a better option.

3. Personal Chef as 80th birthday gift idea

personal chef as 80th birthday gift idea

The older we get, sometimes it gets harder for us to get around. Things we used to have the freedom of mobility to enjoy, might be harder to delight in as we age. Simple pleasures like enjoying a fancy meal at a restaurant might have been a thing of the past. Luckily we live in a world where almost anything you could want is at your fingertips and can be delivered to your home. Like that fancy meal! Consider hiring a personal chef to come into the home and cook a beautiful meal. Maybe are able to splurge and hire someone to prepare all their meals for them. Perhaps you just want them to prepare one luxurious meal. Either way, a professionally prepared meal by a chef is something anyone would appreciate.

4. Personalized Coupons Book

coupon book

Personalized coupon books are a fun way to incorporate the whole family while giving the man of the hour some much needed quality time. Pick up a coupon book like this that has some blank coupons. Each family member can come up with a service they would like to offer up from mowing the lawn, to grocery shopping, to a night out. Anything they can think of!

5. Family Portrait Session

photo session as 80th birthday gift idea

This is a gift that the whole family will appreciate. While the whole family is together for the party, use the opportunity to get an updated family portrait. Hire a photographer or use your personal camera to do the job yourself.

6. Maid Services as 80th birthday gift idea

maid service as 80th birthday gift idea

House cleaning is tiring work and something that most people of any age would happily pass off to a professional. Give the gift of a clean home to someone who might not be physically able to do the cleaning anymore. Weather you want to arrange for a one time clean or for someone to come in regularly a clean home provides peace of mind. A valuable asset these days.

The last thing an 80 year old man needs is another watch or sweater . For the most part these are things that he can buy for himself if need be. The key to the great 80th birthday gift ideas is to provide him with something that will improve his quality of life. This looks like providing a service that he can no longer provide himself. Or giving him some much needed rest and relaxation to help him enjoy his golden years. Whatever the gift, make sure it suits his needs and personal preferences.