When looking for gifts for people with Parkinson’s, consider gifts that are designed for easy use like slip-on shoes or pencil grips. We researched dozens of gifts for people with Parkinson’s and evaluated them for ergonomic features, the comfort of the materials used, ease of use, and price.
Here are the best gifts for people living with Parkinson’s disease.
While silk is nice, it can also be terribly expensive. But these satin silk sheets do the job just fine and are a steal in comparison. These sheets are lightweight, breathable, and soft to the touch. Available in red, black, grey, and ivory, these sheets will add a nice pop of color to the bedroom and make anyone excited to fall asleep.
Price at time of publication: $76
Price at time of publication: $100
“Accomplishing tasks can take longer due to slowness of movements,” explains Dr. Nwabuobi. “Writing and performing other fine motor tasks such as putting on jewelry or shaving can become more laborious due to tremor.” Weighted pens are a great way for those with Parkinson’s to cut down on tremors and gain better control of their hand while writing, making the process easier and handwriting more readable.
This weighted pen from The Pencil Grip is said to help people develop better motor control and build up strength through regular use. It weighs four ounces to add a nice level of heftiness and bring a smooth finish to any writing efforts.
Price at time of publication: $20
Price at time of publication: $199
Price at time of publication: $36
Price at time of publication: $49
Price at time of publication: $46
Price at time of publication: $199
“Most patients with Parkinson’s suffer from balance issues, stiffness, and slowness that in turn affects their activities of daily living,” says Dr. Malik. “Tasks such as walking, bathing, dressing and at some point, basic hygiene, can also be a struggle.”
Encouraging Movement
As Dr. Nwabuobi previously mentioned, staying active is a great way to manage Parkinson’s symptoms. A gift that encourages mild to moderate activity can be a great way to help your loved one get moving with a little assistance.
You can also consider helping your loved one choose the best mobility device, so they aren’t stuck online shopping on the couch all day. Dr. Malik says some people can comfortably use rollator walkers, while others might prefer canes or even motorized wheelchairs. If you aren’t sure, ask a physician or physical therapist for help.
“Specialized mobility equipment exists for persons with Parkinson’s disease that can help improve safety and function with walking,” says Dr. Howard, “so don’t hesitate to ask for an evaluation to see if this equipment may be right for your loved one.”
Soothing Sensitivities
As mentioned before, people with Parkinson’s can be more sensitive to cold weather. As the winter months draw near, give your loved one a gift that will keep them comfortable and cozy all season long, whether that’s with a heated throw or a set of luxury bed sheets.
Just be sure that whatever you choose for your loved one, it will be safe for use, says Dr. Howard: “Take precautions when applying external heat from warm water, heating pads, or hot water bottles to ensure these don’t cause skin injury or burns, in particular for [people] who also have neuropathy or decreased sensation in the affected body part.”
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“Having a loved one to help support access to an excellent healthcare team, including early access to rehabilitation professionals, can ensure that the person with Parkinson’s disease has the right equipment and exercises to maintain function and independence for as long as possible,” she explains. “Loved ones can play an important role as advocates and wellness partners for their loved ones with Parkinson’s.”
Prescription medications, many of which help contain or break down dopaminePhysical and occupational therapyCertain vitamins, supplements, and medical marijuanaRegular exercise
At the end of the day, though, a patient won’t be administering these treatments for themselves—so make sure your loved one has a good relationship with their doctors.
“It’s important to find a medical team with expertise in treating Parkinson’s, [especially one] you feel comfortable enough with to honestly discuss your concerns and symptoms.”
“Exercise can help build strength, improve mood, support cognitive or thinking skills, and improve overall health [in people with Parkinson’s],” says Dr. Howard, adding that many patients use exercise to help with symptoms when they feel their Parkinson’s medications wearing off.
For example, a 2018 study published in Clinical Practice & Epidemiology in Mental Health found that exercise is a key addition to the treatment of Parkinson’s, and can even play both a preventative role in the development of common symptoms.
“Studies are being conducted [to] determine the best dose and frequency of exercise for persons with Parkinson’s disease, but in the meantime, exercise should be incorporated whenever safe and feasible,” says Dr. Howard.
Additional reporting by Sarah Bradley
