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Approximately one out of every six people over the age of 65 is a cancer survivor.

It's likely that at least one of your parents, in-laws, or grandparents are cancer survivors or are undergoing cancer treatment.

Buying a gift for a cancer patient that is also a senior citizen can be especially challenging. These 7 guidelines will help you choose a gift that is useful, practical and appreciated:

Soft
Chemo and radiation can cause skin irritation. Stay away from wool sweaters and scarves, and look for 100% cotton or silk nightgowns, robes, hats, scarves and sweaters.

Warm
Hair loss can leave cancer patients feeling cold at night. A soft cotton cap will be appreciated for daytime and nighttime. Cold hands and feet are also common during and after cancer treatment. Mittens will be warmer than gloves and are appropriate for both men and women. Hospital and doctor's waiting rooms can be cold and drafty. A fleece-lined sweatshirt for men or soft shawl for a woman will keep them warm while they wait.

Easy
Certain chemo drugs can cause peripheral neuropathy (numbness, tingling and loss of sensation in the hands or feet). Avoid sweaters and shirts with small, difficult buttons. For women, necklaces with small clasps can be impossible to manage. Try a long chain (30") that she can easily slide over her head. Braided belts and watch straps are easier to fasten, and adjust with weight loss.

Beautiful
Fresh flowers and plants might seem like a good idea, but require care. Wilting flowers or a dying plant can be depressing. A beautiful artificial flowering plant will last for years and is maintenance free.

Safe
Chemotherapy can cause a drop in platelet counts, causing increased bruising and bleeding. Doctors recommend that cancer patients use an electric shaver instead of a razor. They might have an old electric shaver sitting around in a drawer, but an updated model will offer a closer shave.

Distracting
Cancer patients spend many worrying hours waiting in doctor's offices and hospitals. A Kindle or other e-book reader will help pass the time and takes up less space than a book. If they're having chemo or other time-consuming treatments, pre-load an MP3 player with their favorite music to help them relax and pass the time.

Personal
Fill an album with family photos, and include little notes with comments and memories about your favorites. Help them remember happier times and share a few smiles.