Gifts $25 to $100

An adorable, soft, robotic toy pet may be just the right gift for an older adult or a loved one suffering from dementia, especially if they can no longer take care of a pet or are living in an apartment or an assisted-living facility that doesn't allow animals. The WowWee Alive Sleeping Cuties are perfect to hold or cuddle up with for a nap. Each one has a movable head and "knows" when you pick it up. Pet one and it wakes up or makes soft, sleepy pet sounds; play with one, and it makes happy sounds.

To order: WowWee

Cost: $35 and up

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Ideal for those with weak knees or backs or other physical challenges such as arthritis, or for those who use a cane and have difficulty getting in and out of an auto, the Handybar provides extra leverage and support when entering or leaving a vehicle. It works with many (if not most) autos, small trucks, vans, and SUVs. Small and easy to use, this device can be stored in an auto's door pocket.

The Handybar features a soft, nonslip handle with an insert on the end that fits into a vehicle's striker (a U-shaped device that's factory-attached inside the door well and is readily visible and available once the door is opened). A striker is designed to hold at least 2,500 pounds, which means it won't pop off if an overweight person uses the Handybar with it. With a built-in seat belt cutter and side window breaker, the Handybar is an equally useful tool in an emergency.

To order: Handybar

Cost: $40

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Are you caring for someone who's an active reader or hobbyist -- who likes to, say, fine-stitch a needlepoint pillow or tie flies or collect stamps? Most likely, that person can use a little more brightness and magnification while indulging in such pastimes. If so, the Lighted Full-Page Magnifier provides light, magnification, and adjustability.

With 12 high-powered but cool LEDs, this floor lamp provides ample light for close work and reading. The ultra-flexible gooseneck brings the light exactly where it's needed and to the right angle for viewing. The extra-large lens easily covers an entire page without glare or hot spots. And unlike that magnifier hidden away in a drawer, this one won't be hard to find when it's needed most.

To order: Lighted Full-Page Magnifier

Cost: $80

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Whether the person you're thinking about drinks just a single daily cup of java (or tea or cocoa) or simply likes a fresh brew with each cup, Keurig's one-cup brewers, which come with a selection of gourmet coffees, make ideal gifts. The basic Mini Brewing System brews a single cup with no guesswork or leftover water. The Elite Brewing System, which comes with a 48-ounce water reservoir, offers an automatic "off" feature that can prove useful for forgetful older adults. Compact and easy to use, these brewers make good sense for a small home kitchen or in an assisted-living environment (not to mention in an RV).

To order: Keurig

Cost: $90 and up

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For someone whose hearing isn't what it used to be, the TV Ears portable listening system can make an audible difference. This wireless headset system enhances the sounds and voices from TV (it works with the latest plasma and LCD flat screens), and it's flexible enough to be used as a wired headset for an iPod, computer, or other music and electronic devices.

The TV Ears Professional model clarifies television dialog; it also has an automatic Commercial Control that caps loud commercials so the listener doesn't get an unexpected blast of volume. In addition, it amplifies cell phones, home phones, and even voices during one-on-one conversations.

To order: TV Ears

Cost: $99 and up

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