Most mothers would rather give to others than buy for themselves, so keep that in mind while deciding what to give Mom or Grandma. The following suggestions were once provided by women living in senior apartments who took part in a Secret Santa swap.

Cologne or perfume, as well as body creams, are a favorite with many women, who remarked that buying cologne for yourself seems lonely after years of receiving it as a gift.

Second with the ladies was bath oils and soaps. A new towel or two, rolled in a baket, with some new face cloths, the oils and soaps placed on top, would make a nice gift.

Another great basket is a collections of lots of Mom's favorite foods. Cookies, tea, candy, things you know Mom likes but doesn't buy for herself. Go up and down all of the grocery aisles and you'll be sure to find Mom's favorite relish and nuts, olives and crackers.

Gift cards for specific uses mean Mom has to use them for herself, such as a gas card or one for her favorite restaurant.

If Mom is over 60, she likes to stay warm. A soft fleece throw or fleece sweater will become her favorite. Warm socks are also appreciated.

Mom would also enjoy an elegant robe - hers is probably many years old and washed out. Slippers to match the robe would make a really fantastic gift she'll enjoy every day.

This suggestion may seem silly, but Mom would really like a roll of stamps, a box of envelopes, an assortment of greeting cards for birthdays and all seasons, a package of thank you notes, some pens, and a nice box of writing paper. Having all of these on hand saves her many trips to the store and post office.

You might also think about supporting Mom's interest, whether it be knitting, needlework, scrapbooking, or gardening. Give her some nice yarns or a rainbow of embroidery thread, tools for her hobby, and even some bulbs to plant. With a little thought and a few questions, you'll figure it out.

Go to Mom's hairdresser and buy a gift certificate for her. You might include a manicure and a pedicure.

How old is Mom's bedding? Her sheets and blanket and spread? Mom makes do and goes without, doesn't she. But she'd love a new look in her bedroom.

And the last suggestion is to consider up-grading Mom's old dishes or pots and pans, her glasses and silverware, small appliances, maybe even her TV. Just remember to take the old ones away so Mom doesn't have to dispose of them.

These suggestions are all inexpensive because Mom goes without even the littlest things for herself and that's what she'd really like to have. Depending on your circumstances, use one suggestion or three, fill a small basket or a big one, give her one gift card or ten. Just give her something you know she'll like.