What to buy for that important disabled person?
Internet Access — The Net opens doors for the disabled; you don't have to struggle down stairs or find room in a trunk for a wheelchair. The benefits of information and the ability to socialize with others are two of the best reasons why I'd like to see every disabled person on line. Even if a person is already on line, paying for a month or two of their access will free "funds" up for things they may not be able to afford otherwise. A lot of disabled persons I know forgo "frills" just so they can afford their Internet accounts.
Books — Books on their disability. Amazon Books is an excellent source of books on disabilities. They also have an area where readers can post "reviews" of each book that abled persons might find helpful in finding that perfect gift book. Books can be an important source of information that people who rarely have money to buy for themselves love to receive.
Magazine & Newsletter Subscriptions Yet another source of information that a lot of disabled persons love to get (usually has the latest research information that might benefit them). I love reading newsletters myself and enjoy the sense of friendship and companionship they offer me. It's nice to know you're not the only one struggling to find solutions to everyday problems.
Frills! — Most disabled persons are on very limited income. Frills are one of the first things to go in the budget. So anything that would pamper would be welcomed! Massage gift certificates would work well for a lot of disabled persons. Hot wax hand treatments (available at a lot of beauty salons) would be great for persons with hand-mobility/impairment problems. Let your imagination go wild!
Maid Services — You could go with a professional service or give the person a booklet you made yourself offering services during the coming year. Most disabled people have difficulty with keeping their homes up! I haven't seen the surface of my coffee table in four months! :) Be prepared if you decide to offer the services yourself that the jobs they would love to see done are the heavy jobs: for example, vacuuming, the bathroom, that sort of stuff.
Go To Page: 1 2
| Here's the follow-up discussion on this article: | View all related messages |
For a complete listing of article comments, questions, and other discussions related to Michelle Struik's Disabilities topic, please visit the Discussions page.