The nurse in your life is finally retiring and you want to make sure to gift them the absolute best gift imaginable, but with so many choices, how do you know which one they will love?
We’ve compiled a list of the best retirement gifts to help get you started.
*Disclosure: This article on the best retirement gifts for nurses may contain affiliate links. If you click and make a purchase, I may receive a commission. For more info, please see my disclaimer.
Best Nurse Retirement Gifts
We have our list in categories. So whether it’s a gift for a nurse retirement party or a DIY nurse retirement gift either way we have it below.
Practical Retirement Gifts
1. The Amazon Kindle
- The thinnest, lightest Kindle Paperwhite yet—with a flush-front design and 300 ppi glare-free display that reads like real paper even in bright sunlight.
- Now waterproof, so you’re free to read and relax at the beach, by the pool, or in the bath. Your Kindle has been tested to withstand accidental immersion in water.
- Enjoy twice the storage with 8 GB. Or choose 32 GB to hold more magazines, comics, and audiobooks.
For the avid reader, this is a must.
This is a little pricier nurse retirement gift, but if it’s your mom, dad or a close friend this makes the perfect gift.
- Is the retiring nurse accustomed to reading multiple books a month?
- Do you see them carrying multiple books around with them?
If either one of those is a yes consider getting them the Kindle e-reader.
With the Kindle e-reader (not the Kindle tablet), you can carry hundreds of books in an easy to carry format that’s smaller than most books.
As someone who has the Kindle, I can’t imagine going back to reading traditional books.
If you’ve never heard of the Amazon Kindle checkout this video.
Check out the price of the Kindle eReader on Amazon.
2. Bose QuietComfort 35 II Wireless Bluetooth Headphones
- Three levels of world-class noise cancellation for better listening experience in any environment
- Alexa-enabled for voice access to music, information, and more
- Noise-rejecting dual-microphone system for clear sound and voice pick-up
Now that they finally have the time to listen to music and as many audio books as their heart desires, these Bose QuietComfort 35 II Wireless Bluetooth Headphones are the perfect gift for your favorite nurse.
They come complete with Alexa, and the noise-cancelling capability allows the user to focus entirely on their listening experience.
They also pair quickly with any Bluetooth, and the long battery life of 20 hours means they can be used virtually all day long without needing a charge.
Check the price of the Bose QuietComfort 35 II Wireless Bluetooth Headphones on Amazon.
3. The Ridge Minimalist Hard Wallet
- LIFETIME GUARANTEE – We chose our military-grade materials for their durability and, in turn, created a wallet that’ll last a lifetime — guaranteed. If you ever feel your wallet isn’t...
- RFID BLOCKING - Breathe easy because your cards will be surrounded by the metal body of this wallet protecting them from even the most powerful RFID Chip Readers
- FUNCTIONAL & SLIM - Holds 1-12 cards without stretching out. The slim wallet is ideal for carrying business cards, credit and debit cards, bills, etc. The outside notch allows you to push out the...
All that free time during retirement means more time for going on adventures, and a good adventure calls for a sturdy wallet to carry all your belongings in.
The Ridge Minimalist Hard Wallet is made from aluminum and anodized gunmetal so it’s built-to-last.
It also features RFID-blocking materials that keep your most personal information safe.
In addition to its safety features, it looks great and comes in four colors. Each wallet comes with a Lifetime Warranty on parts like screws, elastic, and the money clip. It also holds up to 12 cards.
Check the price of the The Ridge Minimalist Hard Wallet on Amazon.
4. Apple Watch
- Built-in cellular lets you receive calls, send texts, and check your email — even without your phone.
- You don’t have to raise your wrist or tap to see the time or important information. With the Always-On Retina display, your watch face is always visible.
- The viewing area stretches deep into the curved corners and is over 30% larger than the Apple Watch Series 3 display.
If the nurse you know has an iPhone, then this Apple Watch is a must-have.
There are so many great features that make it a winner, like the ability to receive calls and texts, an Always-On Retina display, optical heart sensor, an access to all the great Apple apps.
It also looks very stylish, and comes in many different colors, including pink, white, and stainless steel.
Retirees want easy, and this watch certainly makes things like sending money, tracking fitness, getting directions, and streaming music and podcasts much easier. Some apps do require a subscription.
Check the price of the Apple Watch on Amazon.
5. Charging Stand (3-in-1)
- Charging Stand Compatible with Phone for vertical and horizontal Viewing for the original charging cable
- Rubber Holder with silicone tray made of 2.6 pattern to Prevent Watch from Scraching and Falling Off
- Upgraded Stand for Air-pods pro,Air-pods 2 and Air-pods 1
Retirement is the perfect time to get better acquainted with the latest technology, but keeping all those devices charged can be a challenge.
Eliminate the needs for dozens of cords with this handy Charging Stand (3-in-1). It can charge a smartphone, smart watch, and wireless ear buds all at the same time.
It comes in four stylish colors so it goes with any decor. It’s compatible with most Apple products and it charges the devices in record time. The stand holds the devices upright so they can still be used while charging for convenience.
Check the price of the Charging Stand (3-in-1) on Amazon.
6. Ashley Furniture Power Recliner
- CONTEMPORARY POWER LIFT RECLINER: Style and functionality merge together in this dual motor lift chair recliner, With just the touch of a button, the power lift eases you back and elevates your legs...
- SMOOTH BROWN UPHOLSTERY: Saddle brown upholstery looks like leather, but is actually thick poly fiber with a cozy feel-good touch. Designed for comfort with a high back, thick cushions and sturdy...
- SLOW POWER MOVEMENT: Estimated time to complete a full cycle with 110V from fully reclined to completely lifted is 1 minute. To move from reclined to upright takes 14.5 seconds, ideal for seniors or...
One of the best things about retirement is that you finally have the time to relax and catch up on all of your favorite movies and television shows.
That’s all made even better with this Ashley Furniture Power Recliner.
It’s made from durable poly fiber that has the luxurious look of real leather with the dependability of polyester. It comes in two neutral colors so it fits well with any home’s style.
The reclining option is controlled with a handy button, so you can go from seated to reclined in under a minute.
Check the price of the Ashley Furniture Power Recliner on Amazon.
7. Ray-Ban Sunglasses
- 100% UV PROTECTION: To protect your eyes from harmful UV rays, these sunglasses include lenses that are coated with 100% UV protection.
- MULTIPLE FRAME AND LENS COLOR: Choose from multiple frames colors—including gold, copper, and gunmetal—and lenses—including non-polarized, mirrored and gradient options. Made from high-quality...
- REDUCE EYE STRAIN: Ray-Ban Wayfarer sunglasses feature precision-cut, scratch-resistant glass lenses that improve visual clarity, and help reduce eye strain while outdoors.
Spending more time outdoors during retirement calls for a great pair of sunglasses, and these Ray-Ban Sunglasses definitely fit the bill.
They feature a durable metal frame and non-polarized lenses, and they come in over a dozen great styles.
The frames are nice and lightweight, so they can be worn for several hours without feeling uncomfortable.
The coated lenses provide the necessary protection that eyes need from the harmful UVA and UVB rays that the sun emits. As we age, our eyes need even more protection from the sun, and these sunglasses definitely provide it.
Check the price of the Ray-Ban Sunglasses on Amazon.
8. Scented Candles
There’s not a lot to say about candles except they’re a popular gift for a reason. They bring a certain flavor to any room they’re lit.
Help your retired nurse friend or family member discover a new smell by getting a scented candle. Check out the price on Amazon.com.
9. A Gift Card
- This card is non-reloadable. No expiration of funds. No cash or ATM access. Cards are shipped ready to use. For FAQ’s on how to use your Visa prepaid gift card please visit mygift.giftcardmall.com...
- A one-time $3.95 purchase fee applies at the time of purchase. No fees after purchase (including dormancy, service or other fees).
- This item is not eligible for refund or return. Available for sale within the United States only (not available to Puerto Rico residents). Additional shipping restrictions apply to Hawaii, Kansas, New...
I know.
I know.
You don’t want to give a gift card. It’s too boring. It’s not original.
I’ve never really found gift cards boring as long as they’re well thought out.
If you’re getting a gift card make sure it’s a place you know for sure they’re going to use.
Do they like to go to fancy or unique restaurants? If so, what’s the restaurant and can you get a gift card to it?
Are they a tools person? Or a DIY person. A gift card to Lowes or Home Depot would make perfect gifts.
The gift cards don’t have to be big dollars.
The thought is sufficient. All else fails get a gift card to Amazon, Walmart, or Target.
Retirement Hobby Gifts
10. Bread Baking for Beginners
- Ohara, Bonnie (Author)
- English (Publication Language)
- 176 Pages - 10/23/2018 (Publication Date) - Rockridge Press (Publisher)
Retirement is the perfect time to start focusing more on our health, and nurses know all too well how important a balanced diet is to overall wellness.
Cooking at home is a great way to stay healthy, and this Bread Baking for Beginners book can help with that.
It features a large collection of bread recipes with step-by-step instructions to ensure the end result is delicious.
There are even mouthwatering pictures to go along with the instructions.
A special section of the book focuses on correcting any mistakes, so it’s perfect every time.
Check the price of the Bread Baking for Beginners on Amazon.
11. DIY Punch Needle Kit
Punch Needle kit that has been carefully designed and curated to offer you an easy-to-do crafting experience.
Crafts are an ideal way to pass the time during retirement because it’s both relaxing and productive.
Punch needling is a lot like sewing, but much easier. This DIY Punch Needle Kit produces a beautiful chicken rug once the project is finished.
It comes with all the tools needed to complete the craft, as well as easy-to-follow instructions.
Even beginners will enjoy working on this craft as the technique is fairly simple to grasp and it doesn’t take a lot of time.
The methodical movements help relieve stress and create a beautiful masterpiece.
Check the price of the DIY Punch Needle Kit on Etsy.
12. Fitbit
- Use amazon Alexa built in to get quick news and information, check the weather, set timers and alarms, control your smart home devices and more all through the sound of your voice (third party app may...
- Based on your heart rate, time asleep and restlessness, sleep score helps you better understand your sleep quality each night. Also track your time in light, deep and REM sleep stages and get personal...
- Get a 90-day free trial of the Fitbit Premium to help you stay active, sleep well and manage stress. Unlock it all in the Fitbit app. (The valid payment method required. Cancel before free trial ends...
Staying in shape after retirement can be a challenge because the activity level usually decreases, but a Fitbit can help any retired nurse stay on track with their fitness. It tracks heart rate, sleep quality, calories burned, daily steps taken, and more.
It has a long battery life of up to 6 days, making it extra convenient. It also syncs with many different phones for easy access to things like phone calls, text messages, and calendars.
It’s lightweight and comfortable enough to be worn for all sorts of activities, including swimming, running, and every day life.
Check the price of the Fitbit on Amazon.
13. Happy Retirement Golf Balls
- Golf balls come neatly boxed ready for gift giving
- These are real golf balls with printed on logos and images
- Makes a great gift for any golfer that is retiring
For the retiring nurse golfer. If you know they play golf, guess what They’re going to be playing more golf when they retire.
Go ahead and get them the Happy Retirement Golf Ball set on Amazon. It comes packaged with 2 golf balls that will remind them of how happy retirement life is.
14. “101 Fun Things to Do in Retirement” (Book)
- Rheingold, Stella (Author)
- English (Publication Language)
- 144 Pages - 06/29/2015 (Publication Date) - CreateSpace Independent Publishing Platform (Publisher)
One of the things nurse retirees will face is figuring out what to do once they retire.
Many nurses will think it’s not a big deal. They think they’ll get to do “all” the things they’ve always wanted to do.
What they’ll quickly realize is just how much time work took.
They’ll also realize they can’t think of enough things to do to make up the time.
101 Fun Things to Do in Retirement (Amazon.com) gives them ideas of what they can do in retirement.
Fun hobbies and activities they can do with their new found freedom.
Retirement Gag Gifts
15. Putter Golf Mug Set
- Golf course graphics on mug
- Hole in base of mug to practice at your desk
- Golf club doubles as pen
Huh…
You know I just realized I have several retirement gift ideas for nurses that are golf-related.
You would think I’m an avid golf fan.
Which I’m really not. I’ve played a handful of times.
I just know golfers like their golf.
If your retiring nurse friend likes to play golf than they’re going to love one of these golf gifts.
16. “My Retirement Plan is On Course” T-shirt
