30 Thoughtful Gifts for Intellectually Disabled Adults That They’ll Actually Use and Love

Finding the perfect and thoughtful gifts for a developmentally delayed adult can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re looking for something that’s both practical and meaningful, whether it’s for a birthday, holiday, or just because, gifts that cater to their unique sensory, functional, and leisure needs can make all the difference.

I’ve crowd-sourced a thoughtful list of gifts that provide comfort, enjoyment, and a touch of independence for developmentally delayed adults, ensuring they’ll actually use and love what you give. These ideas came from disabled adults and their parents and caregivers on my message boards and Facebook page.

Thoughtful Gifts For Teens and Adults

Please note this list has now been split into two lists:

• Gift Ideas for Autistic Adults and Teens
• Gift Ideas for Intellectually Disabled Adults (the list you’re reading right now)

While there are similarities, I felt it was important to separate them out.

Splurge Gifts for Cognitively Disabled Adult

If you’re the parent or primary caregiver, you might be looking for one or two splurge gifts. In recent years, we’ve been focusing on one expensive gift rather than a lot of little stuff.

1. Season Pass: What does this person enjoy most? A particular amusement park or venue? A favorite waterpark or health club with a swimming pool? Consider a season pass or annual pass to their favorite thing. For us, it’s Sesame Place. We also indulge in the character dining experiences sometimes, which you can see he loves! (I don’t let age restrictions or stigma bother us, he likes what he likes)

Gifts for Developmentally Disabled Adults

Here’s a list of practical gift ideas for developmentally delayed adults, keeping in mind various sensory, functional, and leisure needs:

2. Weighted Blanket – Provides comfort and helps with anxiety or sensory needs.

3. Noise-Cancelling Headphones – Great for reducing overwhelming sounds.

4. Adaptive Board Games – Simple, easy-to-follow games for social interaction.

5. Large Print Puzzle Books – For those who enjoy mental challenges at a slower pace.

6. Fidget Tools – Useful for sensory stimulation and focus.

7. Memory Foam Slippers – Comfortable footwear with sensory benefits.

8. Sensory Swing – Provides calming movement and sensory input.

9. Tablet with Protective Case – Loaded with apps for communication, education, or entertainment.

10. Coloring Books – Relaxing and creative without being overly complicated.

11. Subscription to a Streaming Service – Access to shows and movies at their own pace.

12. Soft, Textured Throw Blankets – Cozy and soothing for downtime.

13. Adaptive Kitchen Tools – Easy-grip utensils and tools for independence in the kitchen.

14. Personalized Photo Albums – A familiar, comforting way to reminisce with family and friends.

15. Body Pillow – Provides comfort and support, especially for those with mobility or sensory issues.

16. Tactile Sensory Toys – Toys with different textures to provide soothing tactile input.

17. Smart Speaker (like Alexa) – Voice-controlled for music, alarms, and reminders.

18. Simple Craft Kits – Easy-to-follow crafts like knitting or beading that don’t require complex instructions.

19. Adaptive Clothing – Comfortable clothing designed for ease of dressing, like Velcro shoes or magnetic closures.

20. Lego Duplo Sets – Larger blocks for easy handling and imaginative play.

21. Hydro Flask or Adaptive Water Bottle – Easy-to-use, spill-proof hydration options.

22-23. Exercise Ball or Therapy Ball – Useful for balance, core strengthening, and sensory movement.

24. Lap Desk – For easy use of books, tablets, or hobbies while seated.

25. Simple Musical Instruments – Like tambourines or maracas, for musical expression without needing complex skills.

26. Visual Schedules or Timers – For organizing daily activities in a structured, visual way.

27. Interactive Storybooks – Books with simple stories and textures or sound effects for engagement.