When someone you know is about to retire, you will definitely want to find a meaningful gift to mark the monumental occasion. After all, when a co-worker, friend or family member leaves their life’s work and begins the next phase of their life, it’s something to celebrate and honor. When choosing your gift, don’t forget that most retirees are still very active and vital. Think about retiree activities like golfing and gardening. Add to that list hiking, bicycling and swimming and you will have even more retirement gift ideas.

Standard retiree gifts from corporations include pen sets, passport holders, desk clocks, wall clocks, paperweights, ornaments, company stock options, money clips, luggage, watches, grooming and manicure sets and of course, awards or plaques. Although thoughtful, let’s face it, they are all rather boring items. They tend to collect dust somewhere in the back of the closet and will never see the light of day.

Instead, many times retirement gift ideas that co-workers, friends or relatives come up with are funny gifts. They are not only humorous, but they often say so much more than a traditional gift. A funny and well thought out gag gift conveys to the recipient that you think they have a good sense of humor, you think of them fondly and you feel comfortable teasing them. Retirees who get gag gifts tend to cherish them more because they embody fun and friendship. Two funny and personal gag gift ideas are pink golf balls for a super macho athlete or an analgesic ointment for an ex jock with bad knees.

If the retiree is leaving the military, then there are lots of stores both online and in the real world that sell wonderful items to honor those who have served in the armed forces. Personalized retirement gifts include rings, watches and collectibles, which allow the retiree to proudly display items that commemorate their military service, of which they are no doubt especially proud. If your retiree isn’t leaving the military, but rather a corporate desk job, then items that would make good gifts for them include jewelry boxes, valet trays, MP3 cases, wine, coffee, tea or chocolate lover gift sets, signed picture frames, card sets or personalized poems.

Retirement gift baskets come in a large variety of themes and are sure to please even the most discriminating retiree. Golfing accessories like shoe bags, iron covers and even golfing lessons can help them to pursue their hobby. Wine gifts sets like ornate glassware, carafes, stoppers and carrying cases can be thoughtful additions to any wine lovers collection.

As you can see, retirement gifts don’t have to be meaningless; they can be something that is both memorable and cherished. Gifts that give the retiree something to look forward to and also fit into their lifestyle are the best retirement gifts you can choose. These retirement gift ideas are not only appropriate, but can also help the retiree in their pursuit of other interests and hobbies outside of the workplace, while showing appreciation for all their hard work.

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