15 Thoughtful and Practical Gifts for People With Arthritis

15 Arthritis-Friendly Gifts That Are as Thoughtful as They Are Functional

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Everyday Health independently vets all recommended products. If you purchase a featured product, we may be compensated. Learn why you can trust us.

Arthritis is a common condition in which inflammation of the joints causes pain, stiffness, and decreased mobility. It comes in various forms, such as osteoarthritis, which results from wear and tear, and rheumatoid arthritis, an autoimmune disorder in which the body’s immune system attacks the joints.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately 1 in 5 adults in the United States, which is more than 58 million people, live with some form of arthritis.

“Arthritis can lead to limitations in mobility and make everyday tasks like dressing, cooking, and chores more challenging,” notes Simran Malhotra, MD. “Arthritis of the hand joints can affect grip strength and dexterity, which can interfere with writing, lifting things, or opening jars. This can significantly affect a person’s quality of life and may require them to depend more on their family or friends for assistance with everyday tasks.”

When choosing gifts for people with arthritis, it’s important to consider their specific needs and limitations. Consider products that can help ease their pain, improve their mobility, and make their daily routines a bit easier. “Look for items with ergonomic designs, nonslip grips, or features that require minimal effort,” advises Robin Valadares, a physical therapist. “Heating pads or massagers are great for relieving stiffness, while adaptive clothing with magnetic fastenings can be helpful for people who struggle with buttons or zippers.” The best gifts for people with arthritis provide practical relief while adding comfort and joy to their everyday lives.

TENS 7000 Digital TENS Unit With Accessories

$38.88 at Amazon
When it comes to thoughtful gifts for someone with arthritis, an electrical pain reliever like this TENS unit can provide much-needed relief for those stubborn aches and pains. TENS stands for transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation, and while that might sound high-tech, it’s basically a small device that uses gentle electrical pulses to block pain signals and stimulate the release of feel-good endorphins. In fact, research has found that people experienced less pain during and after using a TENS unit than those who didn’t use it or relied on over-the-counter medications like ibuprofen.

 For someone dealing with daily aches and stiffness, this little gadget may provide a nice alternative to over-the-counter meds to help manage discomfort and allow them to enjoy more moments of ease throughout the day.

BunMo Utensils

$23.98 at Amazon
$29.99Now 20% Off

These ergonomic kitchen utensils combine practicality with comfort, making daily tasks easier for your loved one who might struggle with traditional utensils. These tools are made with easy-to-grip handles and lightweight foam for maximum hold, reducing strain on hands and wrists and making eating and cooking more enjoyable and less painful. They’ll help your loved one continue appreciating their favorite activities, whether it’s enjoying a delicious meal or simply making their morning coffee without discomfort. This small change can make a big difference in preserving their independence and happiness in the kitchen all year long.

Hempvana Ultra Strength Pain Relief Gel

$17.94 at Amazon
$19.99Now 10% Off
Some sticky arthritis creams simply don’t deliver on their promise of relief, but Hempvana Ultra Strength Pain Relief Gel combines both menthol and hempseed oil in a nongreasy formula that can indeed ease sore joints and achy muscles. Studies have found that menthol reduces pain during everyday activities, helping your loved one move more comfortably and enjoy life without the constant nagging of sore joints and muscles. Additionally, the hemp seed oil in the gel has been found to help improve knee pain and physical function and reduce stiffness in people with knee osteoarthritis.

With its soothing blend of menthol and hemp seed oil, Hempvana Ultra Strength Pain Relief Gel offers a welcome escape from discomfort to make everyday life easier for those with arthritis.

Medical King Heated Blanket

$44.99 at Amazon
If you’re on the hunt for gifts for people with arthritis this holiday season, the Medical King Heated Blanket is definitely worth considering, because heated blankets may help loosen stiff joints and relieve achy muscles.

 This blanket offers cozy, targeted relief, with 10 adjustable heating settings and an automatic-shutoff feature for peace of mind. Also, with its fast heating feature and convenient hand controller, they’ll feel relief in no time. Plus, it’s simple to care for: Just toss it in the washing machine and it’s as good as new!

AllSett Health Half Moon Bolster Pillow

$20.95 at Amazon
Unfortunately, arthritis pain and sleep issues often go together, creating a vicious cycle in which poor sleep makes the pain feel worse. Studies have found that nearly half of adults with arthritis reported having trouble falling asleep and waking up feeling unrested.

The AllSett Health Half Moon Bolster Pillow is the perfect solution. Its unique shape makes it ideal for placing under the knees, behind the back, or between the legs to relieve pressure and improve alignment. Additionally, its compact size makes it perfect for use on the couch, in bed, or even while traveling, offering relief and support wherever your loved one goes.

MauSong Jewelry Fastening Helper

$5.99 at Amazon
Let’s be honest: No look is truly complete without a piece of flair. So if you’re looking for thoughtful gifts for people with arthritis, try this little hidden gem: the MauSong Jewelry Fastening Helper, a clever tool designed to make fastening necklaces or bracelets a breeze, even for hands that may struggle with stiffness or limited mobility. This unique jewelry assistant allows someone to enjoy their favorite jewelry without the frustration and hassle of fumbling with tricky clasps. It’s compact enough to slip into a Christmas stocking, or you can pair it with a shiny new bracelet to create a complete and heartfelt gift.

BalanceFrom 7-Piece Yoga Set

$39.99 at Amazon
Never underestimate the power that movement can have on arthritis pain. Yoga has been found to boost muscle strength and joint flexibility while supporting a healthy mood and decreasing stress.

 The BalanceFrom 7-Piece Yoga Set includes a supportive mat with a carrying strap, two yoga blocks, a yoga mat towel, hand towel, yoga strap, and even a knee pad for extra cushioning. It has everything needed to get started in the practice, whether your gift’s recipient is attending a gentle yoga class or finding their zen right at home.

Fit King Hand Massager

$66.99 at Amazon
$99.99Now 33% Off

A hand massager combines relaxation and relief in one thoughtful package, and the Fit King Hand Massager is a great option. It’s designed to target the entire hand and fingers with its three professional massage modes, including kneading, shiatsu, and squeezing. These techniques work together to relax joints, ease pain, and relieve stiffness, making everyday activities feel more manageable. Also, with two levels of heating therapy, it adds a soothing warmth that can loosen tight joints and improve circulation. Portable and cordless, it’s perfect for use at home or on the go, making it a gift that’s as practical as it is pampering.

KitchenClouds Kitchen Mat

$14.99 at Amazon
$21.99Now 32% Off

Whether your loved one is cooking, washing dishes, or working, standing for long periods can take a toll on the joints. Here’s where a mat like the KitchenClouds Kitchen Mat comes into play. Made from soft, high-quality PVC foam, it offers a 0.4-inch cushion that supports tired feet and eases pressure on muscles and joints, helping to reduce discomfort in the feet, knees, legs, and back. Its thoughtful design includes a diamond-shaped nonslip bottom to keep it securely in place, while the beveled edges minimize the risk of tripping, perfect for protecting the safety and comfort of your loved one as they move around their home.

Spa Luxetique Epsom Salts Gift Set

$16.99 at Amazon
$22.99Now 26% Off
A hot bath can work wonders to soothe arthritis aches, and Epsom salts takes a plain soak to the next level. Research has found that a soak in an Epsom salt bath reduced pain and improved mobility for people with arthritis more than a regular bath did.

Given this, the Spa Luxetique Epsom Salts Gift Set is a thoughtful gift for someone with arthritis. It includes three scents: lavender for relaxation, vanilla for warmth, and coconut for a tropical escape. It’s a simple but meaningful way to help someone unwind and find relief from their arthritis symptoms, all while indulging in a little at-home spa time.

EazyHold Adaptive Handle

$21.99 at Amazon
This odd-looking silicone gadget might not look like much at first, but it’s the BFF for anyone who needs a little extra help holding things. You simply slide the two loops onto pretty much anything — a water bottle, hair dryer handle, tennis racket grip, smart phone — and voilà, an instant grippy handle that also acts like a safety net. Slide your hand through the adaptive handle and hold the item as you would normally. If you lose your grip, the silicone handle keeps it on your hand while you readjust your grip.

Fitbit Inspire 3

$79.93 at Amazon
$99.95Now 20% Off
A fitness tracker like the Fitbit is like having a personal coach right at your fingertips. Research shows that staying active can improve physical function, reduce pain, and even lower the risk of falls for people with arthritis — and this handy gadget can help track progress and keep them motivated.

It has a heart rate monitor to help them maintain a safe and effective workout intensity, and the reminders to move gently nudges them to stay active, which can make a big difference for joint health. Furthermore, the sleep monitor can provide insights into sleep quality, which is so important considering restful sleep can help with pain management. Throw in alarms and phone notifications, and it’s not just a gift — it’s a sleek, wearable tool for improving their day-to-day life.


Fit King Leg and Foot Massager With Heat

$99.99 at Amazon
$129.99Now 23% Off
The Fit King Leg and Foot Massager With Heat combines comfort and functionality to soothe achy legs and feet. Its massage feature offers three modes, including sequence, circulation, and whole mode, each designed to tackle different needs. They can choose minimum intensity for daily relaxation, medium for easing stiffness and soreness, or maximum to support post-workout recovery. Plus, the two heat levels provide soothing warmth, which can alleviate joint pain and improve circulation, making it perfect for chilly days. With a 20-minute auto-off feature, you can give them peace of mind, knowing they can unwind safely without any worries.


Dr. Frederick’s Original Grippy Arthritis Gloves

$13.49 at Amazon
$19.99Now 33% Off
These grippy fingerless gloves can help people with arthritis feel confident that nothing will slip through their fingers. They’re breathable, comfortable, and just a little bit stretchy, thanks to the cotton, polyester, and spandex fabric. The textured surface of these gloves provides extra traction whenever your loved one is holding or reaching for something they need. They come in four sizes (small, medium, large, extra-large) and there’s a handy measuring graphic to help figure out which size is appropriate.

OXO Good Grips Twisting Jar Opener

$16.40 at Amazon
$19.99Now 18% Off

A jar opener might seem like a simple gift, but for someone with arthritis it can make the once-impossible task of opening a jar easy and pain-free. The OXO Good Grips Twisting Jar Opener is designed to make opening jars nearly effortless while saving hands from unnecessary strain. With its large, easy-to-grip handle, it’s perfect for arthritic hands, and the nonslip base pad keeps jars steady while sharp teeth latch onto lids for a hassle-free twist. Whether it’s a small jar of honey or a stubborn jar of pasta sauce, this adjustable gadget has it covered. Thoughtful, practical, and totally underrated — it’s the kind of gift they’ll thank you for every time they use it!

Common Questions & Answers

What is arthritis, and how does it affect daily life?

“Arthritis is a condition that causes joint inflammation, leading to pain, stiffness, and swelling,” explains Valadares. “This can make movements like bending, gripping, or walking more difficult. Over time, arthritis can reduce strength and flexibility, limiting the range of motion in affected joints and making everyday tasks like opening jars, writing, or climbing stairs more challenging.”

Osteoarthritis is the most common type of arthritis among adults. Between 19 and 30 percent of people older than 45 have knee osteoarthritis, 27 percent have it in their hands, and 27 percent in their hips. It’s estimated that 40 percent of men and 47 percent of women will develop osteoarthritis in their lifetime, with the risk rising to 60 percent for those with a BMI higher than 30.

Arthritis-friendly gifts often feature ergonomic designs that reduce strain on the joints, nonslip grips that provide better control, and designs that make daily tasks more manageable and comfortable. Examples include kitchen tools with large, cushioned handles, massagers that help ease pain, and heated pads or blankets to soothe aching joints. An arthritis-friendly gift should prioritize comfort, ease of use, and functionality. Look for items designed to reduce strain on joints, offer pain relief, or make everyday tasks easier.

“Heat therapy is one of my favorite recommendations for arthritis and arthritis-related pain,” Dr. Malhotra says. “It works effectively by increasing blood flow and relaxing muscles, which eases stiffness and pain. It can improve joint flexibility and range of motion, which can positively impact a person’s quality of life.” Heated blankets, heated desk pads, or massagers with heat functions all make excellent gifts for people with arthritis.

Yes, gifts like fitness trackers and yoga sets are great options that support gentle movement and promote overall health, which can ease arthritis symptoms.
EDITORIAL SOURCES
Everyday Health follows strict sourcing guidelines to ensure the accuracy of its content, outlined in our editorial policy. We use only trustworthy sources, including peer-reviewed studies, board-certified medical experts, patients with lived experience, and information from top institutions.
Resources
  1. Arthritis Basics. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. March 22, 2024.
  2. Johnson MI et al. Efficacy and Safety of Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS) for Acute and Chronic Pain in Adults: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of 381 Studies (the Meta-TENS Study). BMJ Open. February 10, 2022.
  3. Li Z et al. The Distinctive Role of Menthol in Pain and Analgesia: Mechanisms, Practices, and Advances. Frontiers in Molecular Neuroscience. October 4, 2022.
  4. Abbasifard M et al. Effect of Topical Hemp (Cannabis Sativa L.) Seed Oil on Knee Osteoarthritis: A Randomized Double-Blind Controlled Trial. Pain Management Nursing. September 9, 2024.
  5. Heat Therapy Helps Relax Stiff Joints. Arthritis Foundation. December 17, 2024.
  6. A Wake-Up Call for Sleep in Rheumatic Diseases. Lancet Rheumatology. November 2022.
  7. The Benefits of Yoga. American Osteopathic Association.
  8. Vats S et al. Analysing the Therapeutic Potential of Epsom Salt Across Multiple Human Physiological Systems: A Comprehensive Review. Journal of Clinical and Diagnostic Research. September 2024.
  9. Guglielmo D et al. Walking and Other Common Physical Activities Among Adults With Arthritis — United States, 2019. Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report. October 8, 2021.
  10. Whale K et al. The Importance of Sleep for People With Chronic Pain: Current Insights and Evidence. JBMR Plus. July 1, 2022.
  11. Shen C et al. Thermotherapy for Knee Osteoarthritis: A Protocol for Systematic Review. Medicine. May 14, 2021.

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Emily Hirsch, MS, RD, LDN

Author

Emily Hirsch is a registered dietitian, expert health writer, and speaker with over 18 years of experience in the health and wellness space. She is the founder and owner of South Charlotte Nutrition, a private practice dedicated to various nutrition services including counseling, medical nutrition therapy, and corporate wellness.

Beyond her clinical practice, Emily is a professional writer covering a wide variety of health and wellness topics. She remains dedicated to bringing lackluster research to life by translating main research points into language that resonates with diverse audiences. Emily has been a trusted contributor for renowned companies like Nature Made, Garden of Life, and That Clean Life, among others.

Emily's goal is to continue to consistently deliver sound nutrition guidance to help people improve the quality of their lives.

When not working, Emily can be found outdoors picnicking and hiking while taking in all of the vitamin O (oxygen) she can get with her husband and two children.