Gift giving to older people

I'm really not a good gift giver. I mean, what kind of gift do I give someone who's older than I am, more accomplished than I am, and has a lot more money than I do? You cannot give an ang pao to an older person, that's for sure. There goes a surefire, one-size-fits-all, always appreciated gift.

In general, too, unlike kids who are easily made happy by an inexpensive toy, older people tend to know the value of things and would somehow make you guilty if you picked not only the "wrong" gift, but also a gift that's low on the monetary value.  While people will always say that it's the thought that counts, you do not want your father/mother/grandparent/godparent to feel anything but good when they receive your gift. That's why I sometimes try looking at websites like these: redenvelope.com/50th-birthday-gifts-rb50b. After all, while it's the thought that counts, memorable gifts do make the occasion even more memorable for the celebrant.

I am ashamed to say that I can only afford buying simple toiletries for the elders in my family.  But I'm glad to see that they actually do enjoy those gifts and actually use them!  I guess the thought really counts!