2017 Holiday Buying Guide for Cerebral Palsy

The holidays are upon us again, and that means parties, decorating, family — and gifts. As you make your list this year, you might be shopping for someone who has cerebral palsy. You might wonder what to give and what would be helpful. I’ve compiled a list of ideas that I hope someone would like or find of interest.

Alexa or Google Home: Someone who has a very bad speech impediment or who is difficult to understand might find these devices frustrating. I have a speech impediment, and Alexa doesn’t work perfectly; however, it does understand a lot of what I say. I can control most lights, television, music and even lock and unlock my doors by using Alexa. Every day new actions are available for Alexa to do.

Kindle and accessories: The Kindle is still on my list. They are excellent gifts for someone who has a disability. I can read with so much ease and comfort. I especially like my case that will turn my Kindle on, just by me opening the case. There are various editions of Kindle, too, so you can choose among them.

LifeProof case: The LifeProof cellphone case is very good for someone who has cerebral palsy. I use it on my iPhone, and I am happy I made the choice. The LifeProof case protects my phone if it drops from my lap, which it does often. The case is also waterproof, which is so good for someone who might drool or get a phone wet in the rain or some other way.

Gooseneck holder: If you know someone already has an iPad or tablet, consider getting him or her a gooseneck holder. The user can clip the holder on a table, bed frame, counter, wheelchair — just about anywhere. These holders can hold the tablets still while you use the devices hands-free.

Bluetooth wireless headphones: Bluetooth headphones that are wireless can be very useful. No wires to plug in, and you can answer your cellphone by using the Bluetooth speaker in addition to accessing video or music.

PopSocket: A PopSocket is a device to put on the back of your cellphone that can be used for multiple activities. With the PopSocket, you can hold your phone easily, and you can have the phone stand up, so you can watch video or do something with your hands instead of holding the phone.

Contigo cups with lids: Whenever I’m alone, I like to have a drink easily within reach. I also tend to spill drinks by accident. These cups do not leak or spill. Travel cups come in a variety of colors and sizes; choose your preference.

Wireless phone charger: For my birthday, my father gave me a wireless charger for my cellphone, and it is one of the best gifts that I have ever received. With my cerebral palsy, my dexterity isn’t great, so putting a charger into my iPhone is a hassle and nearly impossible. With the wireless charger pad, I can just lay the phone on the pad and it charges. Not all cellphones can do this, so do some research beforehand.

I hope that you have a very merry holiday season.

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Note: Cerebral Palsy News Today is strictly a news and information website about the disease. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website. The opinions expressed in this column are not those of Cerebral Palsy News Today or its parent company, BioNews Services, and are intended to spark discussion about issues pertaining to cerebral palsy.