By Madeleine Kates
It’s tough to match some on your holiday shopping list with just the right gift, especially if they are physically limited, or experience chronic health conditions. A great way to find the perfect gift, when circumstances can make gifting difficult, is to think about the person you are shopping for, and what their goals or preferred activities might include. Here are some inclusive gift ideas:
Replace. Think about what might need a reboot. For those who have challenges with mobility, grip, or strength, find accessible kitchen and gardening tools with easy- or wide-grip handles or non-slip surfaces. Fiskars® brand offers many ergonomic tools for gardening, cooking, and even sewing, including their Easy Action™ Scissors. For individuals who love to read, but are experiencing difficulty with vision or holding books, try reading services, audio books, or large print books. Finding new ways to resume favorite activities may be appreciated.
Helpful. Family and friends with chronic conditions may prefer useful gifts that they wouldn’t think to buy for themselves. These may include small items to keep in a medical bag, such as a Birdie personal safety alarm device, or decorative medical identification pieces from Lauren’s Hope Med ID Jewelry site. Preparing household items that are used frequently, but are difficult to lift, such as cat litter or birdseed, into smaller and more manageable packages, can be a simple and thoughtful homemade gift. Create pantry or personal care mini sets that can be refilled and more easily accessed than the large original container.
Experiences. Stress-relieving activities are often welcomed by those struggling with chronic illnesses. For a professional setting, choose a spa voucher or yoga class, or find at-home gifts including favored personal care products or comfortable items for a relaxing night. If a loved one likes local adventures, think about fully accessible activities such as a museum or zoo passes.
Intangible. For those who have difficulty using physical gifts or attending events, a donation to a favorite charity or local organization makes a fun and thoughtful gift to let someone who has everything know they are remembered during the holidays. Subscriptions also make great gifts, as movies, music, and online blogs cover a range of interests, and are an at-home activity. Intangible gifts may even be as simple as helping a loved one with tasks around the house such as changing light bulbs, batteries, or air filters, and taking care of cleaning and yard work when in season. Create a fun voucher for them to redeem with you at their convenience. Little things that lighten the load can prevent unnecessary stress or hassle.
Finding the perfect gift for a loved one with a chronic condition can be challenging, but with a little thought, there can be a gift for everyone this holiday season.
Madeleine Kates is studying her MPH through the University of Manchester, UK. She recently graduated from Niagara University with degrees in Environmental Science, Life Science, and Psychology.
