Struggling for ideas for gifts for a disabled or elderly person that are actually useful and wanted? Jean gives her advice!

Having set up The Disabled Shop some years ago, I have quite a bit of knowledge about the many aids on the market, but having recently had a hip replacement operation myself, I can now really appreciate which are most useful for those who are unable to bend or reach safely or without pain!

I think the most useful item has been the magnetic tipped reacher – these come in varying lengths and are just so useful, and avoid the frustration of looking at items in the wrong place and waiting for someone to do something about them!!!!

Perhaps second has been the long handled shoe horn, and of course the long handled sponge and the body care washers (they reach the parts …..!) A valuable gift would be the bath kit, or the long handled sponges and applicators – so frustrating not to be able reach one’s toes! The same can be said of the long handled toe nail scissors, as regaining some independence is invaluable for one’s self-esteem.

Body Care Hair Washer

A possibly less attractive, though very useful and portable present, would be the new Quick Suction rail and the Stick ‘n’ Stay Mobility Handle. These are designed for areas where you do not want to drill – tiled bathrooms, etc. The advantage is that guests can bring these with them when they visit friends or stay in hotels, for extra security when in unfamiliar and less prepared surroundings.

The Sock Aid is an essential tool if you can't bend down

Very practical aids are the stocking and sock aid – again it is impossible to complete this part of dressing without these when unable to bend – and again, the long handled shoe horn has become an essential. The Bra Angel is also a good seller! To have to wait for assistance is both frustrating and somewhat humiliating, and confidence and self respect is restored if one can look after oneself as much as possible.

Another practical gift for those with other difficulties in living independently are many kitchen aids – one handed tin openers are very useful for those with arthritis (whilst balancing on a crutch, this is still challenging!). A new introduction is the mounted table top scissors, for people with poor hand strength – it all comes back to being able to do things independently for as long as possible, even cutting a piece of sellotape.

Good Grips Y Peeler

There is also an excellent, comprehensive range of kitchen utensils made by Good Grips, with comfortable handles to prevent slipping. The pressure absorbing handles are great for those with arthritis or limited grasp ability. These make very useful, thoughtful presents. I know these are appreciated, because quite often the recipient comes back to us to ask for more items in the range.

The Cheekey is a great aid for those who struggle with dexterity

Again, a small gift that is appreciated is the Cheekey – your house key fits into this and it makes locking and unlocking the door so much easier (it also doubles as a ring pull!)

There are so many aids available, many making good presents that show someone has put some thought into their choice, making it so much more appreciated.

We have selected some and put these into a gift section on our comprehensive web site – I will also always try to help source any product that we do not yet have listed. Contact me at info@thedisabledshop.com for more advice!

Do you have any great ideas for gifts that aren’t mentioned here? Have you got any of the above products and find them a lifesaver? Let us know by leaving a comment!