When choosing a sensory gift for a loved one, it is important to focus on more than just practicality. It is also worth considering the impact it can have on their wellbeing.
Sensory gifts are unique as they engage the five senses – sight, sound, touch, taste, and smell. These thoughtful gifts can improve mood, alleviate stress, and provide comfort. In this guide, KompleteCare is here to help you explore a variety of sensory gift ideas that offer meaningful experiences.
Sight: Brightening the world around them
For many, a decline in vision can make it difficult to enjoy their environment. Sensory gifts that focus on sight can improve their space and bring joy.
- Colourful and contrast-enhanced decorations: Brightly coloured items like pillows, throws, or wall art can help stimulate vision and make the environment more vibrant. Consider decorations with bold contrasts, as they are easier to see.
- LED light therapy lamps: These lamps offer a soothing effect and can be particularly beneficial for those who struggle with low energy as the soft, adjustable lighting can create a calming atmosphere.
- Visual stimulation toys: Kinetic sand or liquid motion toys are great for sensory play. The movement and changing colours capture attention and can be a relaxing, visual experience.
Sound: Calming and engaging auditory stimulation
For those who benefit from auditory input, sound-focused gifts can bring comfort, joy, and mental engagement.
- Soothing music players: Music has the power to evoke memories and promote relaxation. Many people enjoy listening to their favourite tunes, which can help calm the mind and improve mood. Devices such as portable music players or radios offer a variety of music options. For a more personalised touch, consider creating a playlist based on their preferences.
- Nature sound machines: For those who find it difficult to sleep or are experiencing heightened anxiety, machines that play nature sounds – such as rain, ocean waves, or birds chirping – can create a peaceful environment.
- Voice-activated devices: Gifts such as smart speakers (like Google Home or Amazon Echo) allow individuals to control music, news, or even reminders with voice commands, offering both entertainment and practical assistance.
Touch: Promoting comfort and relaxation
Touch is a powerful sense that can be used to enhance wellbeing, providing feelings of comfort, security, and relaxation.
- Weighted blankets: These are incredibly popular sensory gifts, especially for those with anxiety, dementia, or restlessness. The gentle pressure of a weighted blanket can help improve sleep quality and calm agitation.
- Sensory fidget tools: Fidget spinners, texture blankets, or sensory pads make for excellent gifts. These tactile items engage the hands, reducing stress and providing a comforting focus.
- Soft clothing or bedding: Luxurious, soft fabrics like fleece, cotton, or satin can be a great comfort, especially for those with sensitive skin. Gifts like robes, slippers, or pillowcases can provide both tactile pleasure and warmth.
Taste: Engaging the palate
Many people take pleasure in savouring their food, and taste-focused sensory gifts can create enjoyable moments during mealtimes.
- Flavoured teas and coffees: A collection of herbal teas or flavoured coffees can bring joy, offering both a soothing ritual and the chance to explore different flavours.
- Gourmet snack baskets: Sensory gift baskets with a variety of flavoured treats (like chocolate, fruit, or nuts) are a delightful way to engage the sense of taste. Choose items that cater to specific dietary needs, such as low-sodium or sugar-free options.
- DIY recipe kits: For those who enjoy cooking, a DIY meal kit that comprises of simple, safe cooking tasks can be both a sensory and stimulating activity. The act of preparing food, from mixing ingredients to enjoying the smell and taste, can be a fulfilling experience.
Smell: Aromatherapy and fragrance gifts
The sense of smell is deeply connected to memory and emotion, making it an incredibly powerful tool for sensory engagement.
- Aromatherapy diffusers: Essential oils like lavender, peppermint, or eucalyptus can help with things like relaxation and focus. They distribute a calming fragrance that enhances the atmosphere of any room.
- Scented candles: Fragrant candles are a great way to evoke positive emotions and memories. Choose scents known for their calming effects, such as chamomile, or citrus.
- Herbal sachets: Placing lavender or other herbal sachets in drawers, pillows, or clothing can provide a subtle, refreshing scent. These are especially nice for individuals who may be sensitive to stronger fragrances.
Combining sensory gifts for a more holistic experience
While sensory gifts that engage a single sense are undoubtedly special, the true magic lies in combining multiple sensory experiences to create a deeply enriching, holistic environment. For instance, imagine a cosy chair draped with a soft, plush blanket, paired with soothing music that gently fills the room, a calming scent from an essential oil diffuser, and the comforting warmth of a cup of tea. When this harmonious blend is thoughtfully combined, these sensory gifts can work together in nurturing the body and mind, offering an experience that can make an individual feel cherished.
Sensory gifts are a thoughtful and meaningful way to show your care for loved ones. They are designed to promote relaxation, reduce stress, and provide moments of comfort throughout the day. Whether you are looking for something to engage the senses of sight, sound, touch, taste, or smell, there are plenty of options that can bring meaningful benefits.
Alternatively, you might be looking to treat yourself to something special to enhance your sensory experience. Depending on your individual goals and available funding, certain items may be accessible through your NDIS funding, or Home Care Package. To learn more about how these options could benefit you, it is a good idea to consult your KompleteCare Client Service Manager, Support Coordinator, or Plan Manager, for more information.
As the company with heart, we provide the utmost care for individuals with unique needs. Our professional team at KompleteCare are trained to offer personalised care plans that can incorporate sensory experiences to improve overall wellbeing. If you are seeking support for yourself, or someone you know, get in touch with KompleteCare today by calling (08) 8265 5696 or filling out an online form via the website.