Some of the most memorable gifts are fun or wacky. But useful gifts will be remembered and appreciated for years to come. It can be difficult coming up with gift ideas for a loved one or friend with arthritis. A gift that helps him or her overcome pain or physical limitations seems perfect - as long as the gift isn't too "medical," if you know what I mean. Ideally, the gift you select should be something that enhances comfort or perhaps something practical that might help your loved one stick with his or her exercise routine.
1. River City L89-117 Wall-Mounted Water Barometer Weather Station
"They" say that people with arthritis can predict the weather. Well, this is a weather station that's both decorative and functional. The top dial has a thermometer and a hygrometer that indicates changes in humidity. The glass barometer hangs below the dial and indicates changes in atmospheric pressure. The air trapped by the liquid maintains a steady pressure. When high pressure (good weather) is approaching, the liquid is pushed down the spout. When low pressure (bad weather) is on hand, liquid in the spout rises.2. Sunbeam Microplush Throw Electric Soft Heating Blanket - Dark Red
A lot of electric blankets are bulky and awkward. The Sunbeam Microplush Electric Throw is the perfect size. It can be laid on top as a 50-by-60-inch throw, or the person can drape it over his or her shoulders like a cape. This very special throw will keep your loved one warm to the core. It comes with a ThermoFine warming system that automatically responds to changing temperature of the user's body or of the room. It has a six-foot cord, three settings and a three-hour auto-off feature.
3. ActiveForever Car Swivel Seat Cushion - Grey
A person with arthritic joints can have great difficulty getting in and out of the car. The required twisting motion causes stress on already damaged joints and increases pain. With this swivel cushion, the movements are no longer a struggle. It swivels 360 degrees and weighs about three pounds, making it portable. While it's designed for a car, you could use it anywhere. The swivel cushion supports up to 300 pounds.4. Hand-Warmer Mug
This is a really unique idea. The hand warmer mugs are handmade by Bob & Corina Neher in Milton Freewater, OR. They are lead-free, dishwasher- and microwave-safe. You slip your hand inside the mug and your hand is kept warm with a hot beverage. Choose the left-handed or right-handed mug. Great for people with hand osteoarthritis.5. New Balance 50003 Via Step Pedometer
Regular physical activity is essential for managing arthritis symptoms. Walking is an excellent exercise for people with arthritis who can start out walking slowly and for short distances, with the goal of building on that. A step pedometer is an excellent gift idea for your favorite walker. This pedometer includes a step counter, calorie counter, distance- and time-display. Keeping track will help your loved one reach and extend his or her goals.6. CAP Barbell Strength Neoprene Dumbbell
This dumbbell set is perfect for light toning-exercises, walking exercises and rehab workouts. Made of solid cast iron with a neoprene coating that provides a comfortable, secure grip. Note: These are single dumbbells and are not sold in pairs of the same weight.7. Handsfree Living Two-Pound Wrist/Ankle Weights
These are a great addition to your workout routine. Strap to your ankles or wrists with Velcro. Adds resistance, builds strength, and they are hands-free. Your friend or loved one may have used them in physical therapy, but now he or she can have them at home.8. Hammacher Schlemmer Temperature-Regulating Body Pillow
This body pillow is medium-firm and 54 inches long. Your friend or loved one with arthritis can line it up wherever he or she wants to support or comfort painful joints. It's made from the same fabric worn by astronauts to combat extreme temperatures. The fabric absorbs excess heat when you are hot and releases heat when you are cold! The 300 thread-count cotton cover is soothing, too.9. Leatherology Italian Leather Journals
People with arthritis are encouraged to share their feelings about living with chronic pain. While it may be difficult to verbalize, writing in a journal is a great way to express their innermost feelings. A beautiful, leather-bound journal is a lovely way to encourage the expression of thoughts and feelings.10. Frankincense & Myrrh Fibromyalgia Rubbing Oil (2 fluid ounces)
This massage oil is made from all natural plant extracts. Thickeners, gelling agents and creams are not added, in order to keep the massage oil closer to wholesome.
