Have you ever found yourself looking for a gift idea for children with special needs?
Are you tired of buying an elderly adult the same thing each year?
We all want that perfect gift for that person we love. To help you find something new, the Center for Disabilities and Development (CDD) at University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, has a few suggestions.
Children
For children there are a variety of adapted toys with switches or special controls if the children have limited mobility. You can buy modified games and puzzles. Books on tape or CDs are great for children with vision disabilities. For teens and young adults you can get simple environmental controls to run CD players, DVDs, and televisions. A number of adaptations provide better computer access, such as track balls, adapted keyboards, and voice input.
The October 2005 issue of Exceptional Parent magazine offers suggestions in its 10th annual toy issue. The magazine's staff reviews dozens of toys, games, media products, and books that are especially appropriate for and appealing to children with special needs. The United Parents' Syndicate on Disabilities (UPSD) has again partnered with Toys "R" Us and the National Lekotek Center to bring you the Toys "R" Us Toy Guide for Differently-Abled Kids. This guide should be available in Toys "R" Us stores or online.
Adults
For adults with disabilities or that special senior on your list, there are a whole host of simple adapted devices called aids for daily living or ADLs. These include devices for personal hygiene, dressing, housework, cooking, recreation, hobbies, and gardening. ADLs not only make life easier, they can help prevent injury and may keep your elderly relative independent longer.
How about giving the gift of a home project? A number of home modifications ideas can actually allow a family member to enjoy their home more. You could build a ramp to their door, modify their bathroom with grab bars, help them set up a more accessible garden space with containers, or assist them in making some changes to their kitchen to make life a little easier.
For help with information on adapted equipment, you can contact Iowa COMPASS, a program of the Center for Disabilities and Development. Iowa COMPASS is a service for Iowans and offers up-to-date information about disability services, assistive devices, and funding for assistive devices.
The COMPASS product specialist can help you find that special gift. COMPASS has also developed lists of companies that offer Aids for Daily Living and Adapted Toys. COMPASS will send you copies of the lists if you call 800-779-2001 or visit the Center for Disabilities and Development web site, which offers direct links to many of the companies listed. Click on Center for Disabilities and Development in the first sentence and scroll down to the section titled "New!"
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