Great Gift Ideas for People That Use Wheelchairs

Do you need to purchase a gift for someone using a wheelchair? Sometimes it is difficult to know what gift would be appreciated. My sister has cerebral palsy and uses a wheelchair to get around. She cannot walk, but she is able to use her arms and hands. From experience, my sister has greatly appreciated receiving the following gifts.

Grabber Tool
A grabber tool can help pick up a pen, pencil, or piece of paper from the floor. It is also useful to retrieve items positioned across a bed or sofa. It is very frustrating when a person needs to get an out of reach item and nobody is around to help. This gift can be purchased online, in some pharmacies, and in some medical supply stores. It comes in various styles and costs, but basically it performs the same tasks. This small tool has the ability to make the person more confident and self-reliant.

Clothing
Coats or jackets that fit well are difficult to find for someone using a wheelchair. Alternatives include a poncho or cape. They just need to be placed over the head and positioned into place, without the need for buttons, zippers, etc. Looking stylish and feeling warm was never so simple.

Elastic waist pants make getting dressed a breeze. There are no zippers, buttons, or snaps to worry about. Stretchable or wide leg pants can also make getting dressed easier. Pants with stretchable leg openings or wide leg openings are necessary for some people using a wheelchair. We may not realize that some people using a wheelchair put their shoes on before they get out of bed because they need their feet cushioned so they can be lifted out of bed. Pants with tight legs cannot be pulled over shoes.

Pullover tops are easy to wear, without worrying about the buttons on a blouse or shirt falling into place.

A bra with hooks in the front gives a woman using a wheelchair the ability to help dress herself because the hooks are easily accessible. The hooks on a standard bra are placed in the back making it difficult for a person using a wheelchair to reach them.

A hood wrap is really a blessing. It fits over the head and then around the neck, acting like a hat and a scarf. The individual can keep warm, and look stylish all with the ease of a one-piece garment.

Personal Accessories
A scarf, whether made of silk, rayon, or polyester, can be tied to a pocketbook, to add a touch of color and flair. It can easily be removed for hand washing.

Necklaces and bracelets, without clasps, and watches, with an expansion band, are good gifts because of their simplicity.

A pocketbook with a strap long enough to be placed around the shoulder will be very welcomed by a person using a wheelchair. It lets the individual carry the pocketbook without worrying about dropping it.

A lap blanket makes a thoughtful gift because sometimes people using a wheelchair have poor circulation. It allows them to keep warm while sitting in their wheelchair.

Spray cologne is a good idea because there is no need to worry about spilling the contents of the bottle.

An eyeglass cord is a good gift for someone who uses reading glasses or sunglasses. The cord allows the glasses to always be near and ready to wear.

Stuff to Keep Busy
A subscription to a favorite magazine is always a welcome gift. In addition, if the person has a special interest or hobby, try to find a magazine about that subject.

Puzzle books such as crossword puzzles, word searches, etc. help to keep the mind active.

Stationery and postage stamps permit the individual to correspond with family and friends.

Various Household Items
A non-breakable figurine looks nice placed on a nightstand, tabletop, etc.

Window clings are a simple way to bring the feeling of a holiday or season into any room. They are inexpensive and very easy to apply and remove.

A potted plant placed in a sunny window can help add a bit of cheerfulness to the room.

A miniature artificial Christmas tree with non-breakable tiny ornaments will brighten up a room.

Decorative magnets can be used to keep lists, etc. in full view. A magnetic photo frame can display a favorite photo.

A small adjustable table on wheels which can be rolled in front of the wheelchair will allow the individual the ability to write, read, etc. in comfort.

Food
Snack size items, juice boxes, and small bottles of water are always appreciated.

Lunch and Shopping
My sister loves this gift! It gives the person an opportunity to shop and have lunch outside their home, enjoying a nice change of scenery. If going out is not possible, a lunch that you bring to share with the person is a nice alternative. As for the shopping, you can shop online or by catalog.

Your Time
Last but not least, the gift of your time is always cherished. The simple act of just sitting and talking or listening means a great deal. If you do not live nearby you can always talk on the telephone.

Hopefully this article will help you find a great gift for someone using a wheelchair.