Thoughtful Gift Ideas for Friends and Family Living with MS
Buying gifts can be challenging under any circumstances. But if your gift recipient lives with multiple sclerosis (MS), you may feel especially unsure about selecting something appropriate, useful and meaningful. The right gifts can help loved ones with MS maintain their independence, health, comfort and interests. This guide provides tips and thoughtful gift ideas for people with MS.
Lifestyle Considerations for Gifting to Those with MS
MS is an autoimmune disease that affects the central nervous system in different ways for different people. When choosing gifts, keep these common effects of MS in mind:
- Fatigue and low energy
- Numbness or weakness in limbs
- Vision problems
- Bladder control issues
- Balance and mobility impairment
- Cognitive changes
- Pain or other sensory symptoms
Look for gifts that make daily tasks easier, more accessible, convenient and comfortable for your loved one dealing with MS.
Practical Gift Ideas to Make Life Easier
Consider these useful items to help someone with MS conserve their energy and live more independently:
- Prepared meal delivery subscription
- Handheld showerhead with hose
- Mobile phone amplifier
- Anti-tip weighted coffee mug
- Jar opener
- Long-handled sponge for bathing
- Sock aid
- Easy-touch can opener
- Voice-activated smart home device
- Robotic vacuum cleaner
Gifts for Comfort and Relaxation
Since MS fatigue is so common, gifts that allow for rest and rejuvenation are always appreciated:
- Heated blanket
- Luxurious slippers
- Cozy fleece robe
- Noise-cancelling headphones
- Satin eye mask
- Essential oil diffuser
- Shiatsu neck and back massager
- Soothing bath bombs
- Weighted blanket
- Subscription massage service
Meaningful Experience Gifts
Make special memories with tickets to accessible and engaging events:
- Audio-described theater performance
- Guided museum tour
- Adaptive sports session
- Live music concert
- zoo/aquarium passes
- Guided nature hike
- Front-row theater seating
- Accessible hot air balloon ride
- Garden tour
Encouraging Mental Stimulation
Keep their mind active and engaged with these ideas:
- Large-print word search books
- Audiobook subscription
- Online coding or art class
- Bird-watching kit
- Digital jigsaw puzzle
- Brain-training game system
- Cognitive behavioral therapy workbook
- Magnifying book stand
- Giant playing cards
- Night sky projection system
More Unique Gift Suggestions for MS
Here are some additional one-of-a-kind gift ideas that can delight someone living with MS:
Adaptive Clothing Options
Special clothing designed with MS mobility issues in mind includes:
- Button loop cuff extenders
- Zipper pulls
- Adaptive Velcro-close footwear
- Magnetic placket shirts
- Low-step pants
- Shoes with extra support
High-Tech Helper Gadgets
Innovative tech-based gifts like these promote independence:
- Talking medication reminder
- Voice-to-text transcription device
- Smart pen for note taking
- Hands-free smartphone holder
- Personal sound amplifier
- Wheelchair mount for smartphone/tablet
Custom Care Packages
Treat them to themed gift baskets with:
- Self-care products
- Brain games
- Favorite movies and books
- Soft fabrics
- Accessible crafting supplies
- Brightly colored utensils
Fun Mobility Aides
Make mobility equipment less mundane with:
- Decorative cane handles
- Patterned wheelchair bags
- Stylish walker tray
- Monogrammed transfer belt
- Bold crutch tips
- Custom wheelchair license plate
Soothing Self-Care Items
Gifts to pamper and refresh both body and spirit:
- Moist heating pad
- Luxurious bed sheets
- Satin sleep mask
- Essential oils
- Natural body butter
- Gentle bath bombs
- Microfiber hair towel
- Supersoft leggings
Subscription Box Services
Ongoing gift deliveries like:
- Monthly puzzles
- International snack box
- Candle or book club
- Crafting supplies
- Adaptive yoga videos
- Gourmet spices
Gift Ideas to Avoid for Those with MS
While almost any gift will be appreciated, here are a few types it may be better to avoid:
- Heavy items if mobility impaired
- Clutter-creating knickknacks
- High-maintenance plants
- Extreme sports activities
- Noisy electronics
- Scents and perfumes
- Complex board games
Opt instead for useful, soothing and accessible gifts tailored to their interests and abilities.
Know Your Recipient and Listen
The most important tip? Base gifts off what your specific recipient needs and wants most. Pay attention when they mention a desired item. Ask trusted family what would be meaningful. Use what you know about their unique challenges and loves when selecting the perfect gift.
With thoughtfulness and care, you can choose gifts that truly make daily life better for your loved ones living with MS.
FAQs
What are some good gift ideas for someone with MS?
Useful gift ideas include mobility aids, adaptive devices, prepared meals, comfort items, mental stimulation, relaxation products, and accessible experiences.
What should you avoid gifting someone with MS?
Avoid heavy or cluttering items, fragrances, noisy electronics, complex games, extreme sports, high-maintenance plants, or anything that requires a lot of energy.
How do I choose a gift for someone with MS?
Consider their unique MS symptoms and limitations. Select gifts that aid independence, comfort, accessibility, and engagement based on their needs.
What are some unique MS gift ideas?
Unique options include adaptive clothing, custom care packages, tech gadgets, subscription boxes, decorated mobility aids, soothing self-care items.
What's the best approach to gifting someone with MS?
Listen to the recipient's wants and needs. Tailor gifts to their challenges and interests. Make sure it is useful and suitable for their abilities.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.
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