Holiday Gift Guide for Seniors

on Dec 13, 2024

At Sensory Tool House, we like to remind the world that being neurodivergent doesn't go away when you're over 18. We also recognize that it also doesn't go away when you're over 60! Just like many other populations, more and more seniors are learning about their sensory needs and finding tools to help them navigate the world!

Aging is often accompanied by various challenges, including cognitive decline, mobility issues, and sensory sensitivities. We have a range of solutions to address these specific needs, empowering seniors to live more comfortably, independently, and maintain a higher quality of life. These items can make excellent gifts. 

Here is a gift guide for some of the super seniors in our lives, because we know they deserve it!

Gifts related to: Fun and Cute Tools for Hand Engagement

The Dream Drops will never disappoint, no matter the age! They are more visually interesting than a traditional 'stress ball' with their glittering interior and fun shape that fits in the hands well.

 A hand squeezes the blue Nee Doh Dream Drop.

 

If the Dream Drops are too firm for you or your loved one's hands, try one of the softer Nee Doh products, such as Cool Cats, Funky Pup, or Dig' It Pig! They double as a cute companion that can go with you anywhere. These are excellent gifts for a grandparent or other loved one. Affordable and kids love to gift them! 

 Four Dig It Pigs of different colors are stacked on top of each other. Two of them are turned around so that the tail on the backside is revealed through the packaging.The teal Cool Cat Super NeeDoh.

Gifts related to: Hand Strengthening and Retention Tools

At Sensory Tool House, we have many products that can help build and retain hand strength. From traditional stress balls to the Hand Exercise Web, there are a lot to try! If you aren't able to bring in your senior for a hands-on experience (Pun Intended) here are some questions to consider when looking for a gift that will be interactive and support hand strength.

  • What muscles in the hand are we looking to build, is there a certain movement that will be more beneficial?
  • What parts of the hand are more sensitive, do we have joints or parts of the hands that we need to protect?
  • Have they had any recommendations from a provider or physical therapist?
  • What have they traditionally enjoyed doing with their hands? What tool will help give that same input they enjoyed in hobbies or career?

These answers will vary based on the individual, but our staff are always willing to help you brainstorm other questions and solutions!

Eggsercizer Hand Exerciser 

  • Available in a variety of strengths.
  • Helps to improve grip strength dexterity, and fine motor skills.
  • Fits nicely in the palm of the hand and easy to hold.

 Hand Xtrainer

  • Available in different resistances
  • Can be placed in a microwave or refrigerator for hot/cold therapy
  • Supports hand, finger and upper arm strength

 The Red Hand Xtrainer with Soft Resistance. 

Gifts related to: Sensory Input for Downtime

Weighted stuffed animals are a must experience product for anyone stopping by Sensory Tool House. Keep them by your couch and it will be one of the first things your guest grabs when visiting. They are calming and adorable!

Warmies have the added benefit of aromatherapy. The interior is decorated by the relaxing benefits of French lavender. Added benefit, they can be a great source of warmth after a quick session in the microwave! Ease your worries and muscles at the same time. Excellent for grandparents and elders in our lives.

 Warmies Plush Gray Kitty (13")Bunny Warmies Animal Wrap (20"). Warmies Plush Meerkat (13").

 

Need a little more weight and a way to show your love, check out the Heart to Hug Weighted Pillows. They are 5 pounds of pure comfort. Available in Mist Blue and Lavender.

Mist Heart to Hug Weighted Pillow, 5 lb.

Staying busy is important and helping to fill downtime can be beneficial to the mind and body as we age. Many products can be beneficial in increasing hand circulation as well as keeping the brain engaged. The visual and tactile stimulation may also help increase mood or focus.

 Twiddle pup

 An older person with dark skin tone and short grey hair has one hand in the front end of the TwiddlePup by its head and the other is pulling colorful ribbons.

 Fidget Blanket

 The open Fidget Blanket next to the cover of the accompanying book.Man using fidget blanket with healthcare worker

 

 

There are many items that can help support the seniors you love and care for. For more ideas visit our Senior Support Collection.

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