The season of giving is here! If you’re looking for a thoughtful gift for a loved one with Parkinson’s, we’ve rounded up a list of ideas from our program advisors, who are living with the disease. Here are the top five most requested items this year:

  1. Think exercise! Any kind of exercise equipment like a yoga mat, fitness tracker or reflective gear can make thoughtful gifts with many inexpensive options available. Or if you’re looking for something bigger, exercise machinery like a rower or recumbent bike helps your loved one get aerobic activity from the comfort of their home.
  2. Comfort is key! Easy to wear clothing like slip on shoes, no button/zipper shirts, or faux jean, slip-on pants can help your loved one be comfortable. Or go for luxury with items like satin pajamas and sheets.
  3. Self-care is a must have. Gift certificates for a massage or acupuncture can help your loved one unwind. Food delivery services, like a Hello Fresh subscription, can support a healthy diet while saving time in the grocery store and kitchen. Or if your loved one likes to engage in a little retail therapy, give them a gift certificate to their favorite store.
  4. Practical is appreciated. Easy to use everyday gear like a pill box, shoehorn, fanny pack or sling bag can provide practical support to your loved one with Parkinson’s. There is also adaptive equipment to make eating and cooking a little easier. Check out our videos on eating and cooking to learn more about what’s available.
  5. And the number 1, most requested item this holiday season, trekking poles! Often thought of as a hiking accessory, trekking poles can be used any time you go for a walk. They can also provide stability with at home exercises, such as static lunges. Trekking poles are a great way to increase aerobic activity while encouraging upright posture.

Bonus Idea!

A donation to the Brian Grant Foundation in honor of your loved one will help us give you – and many others – the gift of living well with Parkinson’s all year long. And this holiday season, you can send an ecard to your loved one to let them know that you gave a donation in their honor.