Gifts for Adults With Autism: What to Get Your Loved One
When selecting gifts for adults with autism, you’ll find it’s similar to purchasing gifts for those who identify as neurotypical. On top of considering the person’s unique interests, it’s also essential to keep their preferences and sensory sensitivities in mind. While some individuals may appreciate sensory-friendly items or therapeutic tools, others may prefer gifts related to their hobbies or interests. Ultimately, the best gifts cater to individual needs and preferences, fostering enjoyment, comfort, and well-being.
At Blue Parachute, we know that buying gifts for others can be difficult whether or not the recipient is differently abled. That’s why we’ve compiled some advice regarding the type of items to buy for adults with autism, along with some gift ideas. Whether your loved one is already an adult or preparing for adulthood, you can continue reading to find ideas for what to get them.
What to Buy for Adults With Autism
Those who are on the autism spectrum will enjoy many of the same gifts as those who are not affected by autism. However, if you know that the person you are looking to buy a gift for has more sensitivity than others, you might want to purchase something more catered to individuals with more diverse needs.
You can find autism-friendly gifts at specialty stores catering to sensory needs, online retailers offering sensory-friendly products, or autism-specific organizations and support groups that promote inclusive and supportive communities for individuals with autism.
Remember, regardless of whether someone is on the spectrum or neurotypical, the suitability of a gift depends on the individual’s preferences, abilities, and interests. Choosing gifts thoughtfully and considerately is essential, focusing on what brings joy and fulfillment to the recipient.
You also need to consider your budget when selecting a gift to purchase.
What Are Some Gift Ideas for Adults With Autism?
If you are looking for items that consider special requirements, such as gifts for autistic adults, we have some suggestions.
Here are some autism gift ideas suitable for adults, categorized by price range:
Gifts $25 and Under
- Fidget toys: Fidget toys such as stress balls, fidget spinners, or textured sensory toys can provide tactile stimulation and help reduce anxiety.
- Noise-canceling headphones: Noise-canceling headphones can benefit individuals with sensory sensitivities, providing relief from loud or overwhelming environments.
- Adult coloring books: Coloring books designed for adults can offer a relaxing and therapeutic activity, promoting mindfulness and stress relief.
- Weighted blanket: A weighted blanket can provide comfort and calming sensory input, promoting relaxation and better sleep.
- Sensory brushes: Sensory brushes, often used in sensory integration therapy, can offer tactile stimulation and help regulate sensory processing.
Gifts $26 to $74
- Adaptive clothing: To promote comfort and independence, consider purchasing adaptive clothing designed with sensory-friendly fabrics and features, such as seamless designs and tagless labels.
- Noise-masking devices: Noise-masking devices or white noise machines can help individuals with autism manage sensory sensitivities by creating a soothing background noise.
- Therapy putty: Therapy putty or resistance bands can provide proprioceptive input and promote hand strength and coordination.
- Aromatherapy diffuser: An aromatherapy diffuser with calming essential oils like lavender or chamomile can create a relaxing atmosphere and promote stress relief. Because some people on the spectrum might be more sensitive to smell than others, aromatherapy scents could be too strong for them.
- Sensory-friendly puzzles: Are you thinking of sensory gifts for adults? Look for puzzles with large, easy-to-handle pieces and calming images, suitable for individuals with autism who enjoy tactile and visual stimulation.
Gifts $75 and Above
- Noise-canceling headphones with Bluetooth: Whether someone identifies as being on the spectrum or not, receiving upgraded noise-canceling headphones with Bluetooth capabilities is a gift that almost everyone would love. Headphones like these offer the benefits of noise reduction along with wireless convenience for listening to music or audiobooks.
- Weighted vest or blanket: A weighted vest provides deep pressure stimulation, helping to regulate sensory processing and promote a sense of calm and focus. These come in different weights and fabrics. Ensure you purchase from a location that will allow an exchange if the item is too heavy or made of a material the person doesn’t care for.
- Therapeutic swing: Babies aren’t the only ones who enjoy the sensation of rocking or near-weightlessness. A therapeutic swing can offer vestibular input and sensory integration therapy, providing a calming and soothing experience.
- A subscription to a sensory subscription box: Consider giving a subscription to a sensory subscription box service. These services provide monthly deliveries of sensory-friendly toys, tools, and activities tailored to the recipient’s preferences and needs.
- Smart LED light bulbs: Light bulbs can have adjustable color and brightness settings when they are Smart LED light bulbs. These can create a customizable sensory environment, offering calming or stimulating lighting effects as needed.
If you still aren’t sure what autism gifts for adults you should purchase, you can always buy a gift card. However, as gift cards can seem impersonal, instead of just giving the person a gift card, plan a shopping trip with your loved one. You can plan to eat lunch or dinner while you are together and give sage advice on what you think they might or might not enjoy. Another benefit of shopping together is if the person selects something that only costs slightly more than the amount you gave through the gift card, you have the option of paying the difference.
Giving the Gift of Blue Parachute is Easy
Now that you have some ideas of different gifts for adults with autism, you might want to give the gift of learning and teaching. At Blue Parachute, we have a library of videos that are a form of autism home support services. These are all based on ABA therapy and written by Licensed and Certified Behavior Therapists. From life skills to communications skills to essential skills and others, our videos can help people learn and teach the skills needed for one to live independently.
Whether you are looking for a gift for a parent, a teacher, or a community affected by autism, or even if you are looking for something for yourself, we offer subscription pricing to ensure everyone can afford to view the videos they need. If you need to know what to buy for adults with autism, start your search with us.
If you have any questions, you can visit our FAQ page. If you prefer, you can use our online contact form. Find the perfect gift for yourself or your loved one who is on the spectrum.
Related Readings:
Blue Parachute – Who We Help
Blue Parachute – How We Help
Sources:
National Autism Resources – Gifts for Autistic Teens and Adults
Neurodivergent Insights from Dr. Neff – Top GIfts Picks for Neurodivergent Individuals This Holiday
