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This is actually a really hard question and it really depends on the relative, their health and interests. Each type of scope has a set of merits and demerits...so the answer can be different for every situation.
For your budget the best bang for your buck is a refelecting telescope.
A 6 or 8 inch Dobsonian mounted reflecting telescope is a great choice for someone who is interested in observing the night sky. Great views of the moon, planets and a good number deep sky objects and double stars. Easy set up for an able bodied person but a bit bulky to transport. Probably needs an adjustable height chair to get maximum enjoyment. Not great (as Dobsonian mounted) to take pictures. Not good for terrestrial viewing.
Within your budget would also be a number of limited quality refractors. Good for moon and larger planets, some limited deep sky objects. Low cost means limited optical quality. Within your budget, could have some goto abilities but again limited in solid quality. Capable of terrestrial viewing. Looks like a telescope with tripod (but likely not so stable)
Might be best to get their input (I know this spoils the surprise)...maybe consider giving them an observers guide and a “gift certificate” for them to pick one out of their choosing. In my opinion there are few things worse than an unused scope (of any quality) in the closet or garage.
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