The likes of socks and book vouchers may be the last resort for many a Christmas gift for an elderly relative- but Buckinghamshire County Council has put forward some more practical solutions for this annual problem.

According to the authority, daily living aid gifts will make the world of difference to older or disabled family members – and will not bust your Yuletide budget.

And the county’s ‘Safe + Well’ service can offer advice and tips on the right things to buy.

Patricia Birchley, Cabinet Member for Health and Well-Being, said: “Too often, people buy Christmas presents that don’t have any real use because they cannot think of what to get their loved one, “Why not then spend your money this year on presents that will make a real difference to their lives?”

Suggestions for presents include:

• A kettle tipper to allow you to make your tea and coffee without having to lift a heavy kettle - From £32.25

• A magnifying lamp to help those with poor eyesight to go back to enjoying reading books or the paper - From £9.99

• A handy perching stool for someone who finds it difficult to stand for long periods when they are preparing a meal, ironing or having a shower - From £52.99

• An automatic can opener to help make tricky tinned food easier to open for people with grip problems - From £17.99

• A photo button telephone to help loved ones keep in touch more easily without having to remember lots of phone numbers - From £74.99 You can find some of these items online or in mobility shops.

Buckinghamshire’s Safe+Well Service can provide advice and guidance to help people find the right daily living aids to support them at home. The service is the first of its kind in the country which is available to all local residents rather than just people entitled to social care support.

Patricia Birchley said: “When some tasks in the home become more challenging, the right aids can take away anxiety and reduce the risk of accidents – which is why we're ensuring this service is available to anyone in the county who needs it, regardless of whether they receive care support from the Council."

• Contact Safe+Well on 0300 100 0247 or for more information, visit www.safeandwell.co.uk/buckinghamshire