There’s more to a gift than meets the eye. It’s not just a tangible thing given to a person and meant to satisfy the recipient. For all we know, it’s a symbol of giving and sharing. It uplifts the mood and boosts relationships. That’s why it’s common to have gift-giving during birthdays, valentines, and Christmas holidays. Chances are, we hand up greeting cards and surprise our loved ones with presents.
But how about presents for individuals with disabilities? Think of children with autism and Attention-Deficit and Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). Consider adults with amputated legs and arms and disabled individuals due to underlying health conditions. Even those who have hearing and visual impairments have special needs. For this reason, it can be hard to think of what to give.
That said, you need some critical thoughts and make considerations. You’ll have to do a little research and perform due diligence. First, ask your recipient’s family and friends for gift suggestions. Be sure to factor in the specific disability and personal needs. From there, you can decide on what to hand over.
If you’re clueless about what presents to give, here are eight gift recommendations for individuals with special needs:
1. Sensory-friendly presents
Some children and even adults with disabilities are suffering from sensory processing disorders. Their senses don’t function the same as the senses of regular people. As such, gifts such as entertainment devices and toys can be overwhelming due to loud sounds and bright features. For this reason, opt for things with subtle sounds, fewer hues, and soft textures. Consider sensory-friendly presents like Play-Doh, Legos, and noise-canceling headphones.
2. Wheelchair accessories for the physically challenged
In most cases, physically challenged individuals heavily rely on wheelchairs. They probably cannot stand and walk after a physical injury or a major surgical operation. Some individuals are physically disabled forever, and their motor skills no longer function. No, you don’t necessarily have to provide them with a wheelchair unless you have the financial means to do so. You can consider a wheelchair accessory such as a pouch. This handy stuff can serve as convenient storage for personal items.
3. Modified cane for the elderly
While some physically challenged individuals need a wheelchair, a few others need a cane for walking. Of course, canes have always served as walking aids for ages. As such, what better way to hand up a gift than a modified cane? However, make sure that this cane is specialized for the elderly and those with specific needs. Fret not, as there are advanced models designed for varied needs. Some examples are retractable canes for the disabled and freestanding walking sticks for the elderly.
4. Adaptive clothing for individuals with physical challenges
People with disabilities may find it hard to dress up regularly. Some clothes are just too tight or too complicated to wear. Chances are these individuals need the help and assistance of other family members or even caregivers. Fret not, as top brands worldwide have clothes designed for people with special needs. Hence, opt for adaptive clothing as your present for a person with a disability.
5. Eyeglasses for the visually impaired and aids for the hearing impaired
It’s common for many individuals to have visual and hearing impairment. Such minor disabilities are especially true for older people. The time comes when they start to lose their sense of sight and hearing. As such, it’s best to hand up eyeglasses as gifts for the visually impaired or hearing aids as presents for those with hearing problems. Ultimately, your recipient will love these practical presents.
6. Arts and educational materials for kids with cognitive disabilities
Some children are suffering from cognitive disabilities as they grow up. Their parents would usually consult with doctors and quickly learn their kids have some cognitive developmental delays. As such, it’s best to provide these kids with arts and crafts to boost their imagination and creativity. These items can improve the left side of their brain. On the other hand, you can hand up these children with educational materials. These materials can help boost their logical-thinking, problem-solving, and critical-thinking skills.
At this point, you now have a robust idea of appropriate presents for people with disabilities. Consider the gift recommendations discussed above, from sensory-friendly presents to eyeglasses for the visually impaired and aids for the hearing impaired to arts and educational materials for kids with cognitive disabilities. But as mentioned above, do a little research, ask from the recipient’s family or friends, and factor in disability. Ultimately, you’ll be able to decide on what to give to an individual with special needs.