For many individuals, Thanksgiving isn’t complete until they’ve done their Black Friday shopping. However, Black Friday isn’t as accessible for older adults as it once was. Disregarding the early hours one must be out and about, seniors are forced to compete with crowded stores and an overwhelming, fast-paced environment.
Thankfully, you don’t have to brave the crowds to get a good deal. In the era of online shopping, a new day to save money has arisen: Cyber Monday (the Monday after Thanksgiving). Today, big retailers and small boutiques alike offer serious discounts, allowing you to save money without having to step outside. With the whole internet at your fingertips, it is difficult to determine what purchases seniors should take advantage of for Cyber Monday.
Shopping online safely
Before you bust out your credit cards and start your online shopping, take the proper steps to stay safe. Be wary of any ads that pop up on your Facebook advertising amazing products at unbelievable prices. It’s likely they are scams.
Unfortunately, the internet is full of scams designed to target unassuming seniors. Always think twice before clicking on a link. To stay extra safe, stick to reputable brands you are already familiar with. Read reviews of your potential purchases too, as products may look different online than they do in person. Consider comparing prices across the web, as Walmart might have had better Black Friday sales, but Target could have better Cyber Monday deals!
Finally, whenever you do big shopping, it is always a great idea to set a budget. This is especially important if you’re trying to save money on your holiday shopping. Think about how much you can spend on each loved one, then make decisions from there.
What purchases should seniors take advantage of for Cyber Monday?
While you’re likely to find discounts on just about anything you might want to buy on Cyber Monday, there are certain products that are especially worth it. If you’ve been thinking about making any of these purchases, now is the time.
Small electronics
After the past handful of years, more seniors have incorporated more electronics into their daily lives. If you’ve been thinking about investing in anything like a new smartphone, laptop, or iPad, now is a great time. In 2022, discounts for small electronics ranged from 32% to 12% of their average price, so take advantage of that.
Kitchen items
It’s possible that you’ve been working with the same kitchen utensils not just for years, but for decades. If cooking is still a part of your daily routine, you deserve new, high-quality kitchen items so you can make your favorite recipes with ease. You can find great deals on sets of pots and pans as well as small appliances like coffee machines and air fryers.
Toys
With Christmas just around the corner, there won’t be a better time of year to get your holiday shopping out of the way. On Cyber Monday, you can save money on a wide range of toys for your grandchildren, no matter their age. From cute stuffed animals, to jigsaw puzzles, to action figures from their favorite shows, you’ll find something for everyone.
Clothing
With the weather getting colder by the day, it isn’t a bad idea to reevaluate your winter wardrobe and replace staples on Black Friday. Look into more expensive brands, such as L.L. Bean or Tommy Hilfiger, for quality coats and boots that will last you for years to come. Clothing from brands’ fall collections will likely see an even steeper decrease in price, so you could also use this time to prepare yourself for next year.
Home care can make the holiday season merrier
As you prepare for the holiday season with your Cyber Monday purchases, don’t forget to take into account your health and well-being. The end of the year can be a stressful time for seniors, which can make taking care of their activities of daily living a challenge. Thankfully, the staff at Home Care Powered by AUAF can help during this time.
Our dedicated team of caregivers is here to provide personalized home care services that cater to the unique needs of seniors. Whether it’s assistance with medication management, companionship, or personal care, we’re committed to ensuring that seniors enjoy the highest quality of life possible.
If you’re ready to explore how home care can enhance your life, call us at (773) 274-9262.