'Tis the season to remember seniors in need

If you're like most people, you've already given some thought to holiday shopping this year. Maybe you've picked up or made a few gifts. Or if you're one of those organized types, you might even have gifts wrapped, waiting in your closet to be given to loved ones. Home Instead Senior Care is asking again this year for shoppers to remember older adults in need this holiday season.

The Home Instead Senior Care "Be a Santa to a Senior" is underway at locations across the country. Shoppers select a paper ornament from a tree in the store or community location. The tag lists the first name, age and wish of a senior who might not receive a holiday gift this year. The giver purchases the requested items at any location, then returns the unwrapped gift and ornament tag to an employee at the host store.

Volunteers collect, wrap, and deliver the gifts to the seniors.

Commonly requested items include:

• grocery and restaurant gift certificates
• snacks and candy
• crossword puzzles and magazines
• hats, gloves, slippers and sweaters
• blankets
• personal care items

The "Be a Santa to a Senior" program began in 2004. Individual franchises partner with organizations in their communities to identify seniors in need.

Can you help make an older adult's ho-ho-holidays this year?