gifts for grandparents

In getting gifts for grandparents this year, remember one important thing: More often than not, grandparents appreciate old-fashioned gifts more than trendy finds. Here are some gift ideas-including some of this year's hits-which may provide generous "elderly appeal."

Gifts for Grandma

Combined jewelry. One of the trendiest 2011 Christmas gifts for grandparents you might consider is combined jewelry, or mixed element jewelry pieces which combine both new and vintage pieces. Try finding classic vintage pieces online or at a second hand store, and add modern pieces to it to customize the look. A vintage chain with a modern locket that has a photo of the grandkids is a great idea!

Perfume. Try gifting Grandma with a classic scent that will complement her. Some popular scents for 2011 include Dior issimo by Christian Dior, or Bois de Iles by Chanel. These perfumes are modern re-issues of classic scents which were formulated between the 1920s to 1950s, so you can be sure these perfume's subtle notes will appeal to even the most traditional of Grandmas.

Beauty products. Women, even Grandma, can't get enough of beauty products. Get something you know she'll love, like her favorite shade of rouge, a themed package of her favorite lotion, cream and cologne, or a set of soaps in a scent she'll love.

Gifts for Grandpa

Magazine subscription. Give Grandpa one-year gift subscriptions to his favorite magazines. A lot of grandparents really just want to find something productive to do, and magazine reading will surely keep them engaged.

Music player. One of the best 2011 gifts for grandparents would be a music player loaded with favorite tunes from favorite artists. Gift Grandpa with the 2011 iPod and load it with playlists you know he'll love. Include a music player dock as well so he can listen even without headsets.

Sporting gear. Validate your Grandpa's hobby by giving him the latest sporting gear. If your Grandpa's into fishing, gift him with one of this year's top five fishing rods from Gulf Master, Packer, St. Croix, Quantum, or Shakespeare. If it's golfing he loves, the Galileo Electronic Golf Scope and Rangefinder makes for an impressive, high-tech gift.

Gifts for both grandparents

Aside from getting Grandpa and Grandma personal gifts, give them a little something extra that they can appreciate together.

A digital picture frame. One sure grandparent-pleaser is the digital photo frame. Purchase a hi-res photo frame and load it with photos of the family's events from 2011. It'll surely entertain them, plus it's a great way to help them archive their photos of your family for this year.

A new coffee maker. Coffee makers of recent years are sleeker, easier to use, and quieter to operate, and will surely please grandfolks who are fans of a good cup 'a joe or tea. For 2011 Christmas gifts for grandparents, new models such as the Krups KM7000 or the Cuisinart Grind & Brew offer superior features.