Occupational therapists, students, and assistants put their hearts into helping other people. It’s such a kind gesture to give them something that brightens their day and reminds them of the impact they make on people’s lives. Here are some ideas for occupational therapy gifts.
Overview: Our Top Picks
Gift Ideas for Occupational Therapists
- WhiteCoat Occupational Therapist Clipboard ($29.95)
- Zacurate Pro Series 500DL Fingertip Pulse Oximeter ($22.75)
- Comfy - Elegant Orthopedic & Extremely Soft Shoes ($11.95 - $14.88)
Gift Ideas for Occupational Therapy Students
- Custom Water Bottles ($12.60+)
- 16oz. Reusable Plastic Hot Cup with Lid ($12.50+)
- Nurse Badge Reel Decorative Badge Holder ($7)
- Morgan & Paige Horizontal Crystal Necklace ($29.99)
- Gemstone Earrings ($9.98+)
Gift Ideas for Occupational Therapy Assistants
- Cherokee Women Scrubs ($22.98)
- Bloom Daily Planner ($24.95)
- Discover Unique Healthier Snack Subscription Box ($20.95)
- House Plant Box Subscription ($18/box)
Jump ahead to these sections:
- Gift Ideas for Occupational Therapists
- Gift Ideas for Occupational Therapy Students
- Gift Ideas for Occupational Therapy Assistants
Gift Ideas for Occupational Therapists
Do you know an occupational therapist that you really want to celebrate? We’ve come up with a few gifts that the OT in your life can appreciate. You can customize each gift to suit the personality of the special person you know.
1. Tote bag
Occupational therapists carry around a lot of stuff. Help keep it all together by selecting a fun tote that displays his or her hobbies or interests. You can even customize the tote with his or her initials. A tote bag is always useful.
2. Reference clipboard
If you prefer a practical gift, then a reference clipboard may do just the trick. Occupational therapists can use it to check commonly-used information in a matter of seconds. This is also a great gift for doctors, nurses, or other medical professionals in your life.
3. Pulse oximeter
A pulse oximeter is a great gift for those who are regularly in a hospital setting. You just never know when this handy gadget will be needed. You can check a patient’s pulse and O2 levels quickly. People who come into contact with patients regularly may appreciate having one of their own devices.
5. Comfortable shoes
Occupational therapists are on their feet a fair amount during the day. Pick out a nice pair of shoes or give your favorite OT a gift card to a shoe store. It’s a practical, thoughtful gift.
Gift Ideas for Occupational Therapy Students
Being a student is hard work. Brighten a student’s day with a gift. Not sure where to begin? Here are a few tips to get you started.
6. Massage
School is stressful. Give your favorite occupational therapy student a way to relax with a spa gift card. A massage can help melt away stress and give your student a new, refreshing perspective.
7. Drinkware
Why not decorate and customize a cup or container? This type of gift is a kind way to remind someone that you’re proud of his or her achievements. Water bottles, coffee cups, or other drinkware are all great ideas to get you started.
8. Office decor
Give an OT student office decor — it’s a great way to let your student know that you believe in his or her success. Focus on getting things that match your student’s interests and personality. You may even want to purchase art or motivational pieces to set the tone for his or her space.
Pro tip: An Office Max gift card is also an acceptable option.
9. Retractable badge clip
Badges are just part of the work environment for an occupational therapist. A cute retractable badge clip is a fun gift that also happens to be useful. There are many options to choose from, and you can find one that suits your favorite OT student’s personality.
10. Jewelry
A necklace, earrings, or another customizable piece may be a nice way to celebrate the OT student that you know and love. Keep it simple and stick to a gem or color scheme or you could select something more OT-themed. Either way, the recipient is sure to appreciate this amazing gift.
Check out our guide on the best gifts for medical students if you need more recommendations.
Gift Ideas for Occupational Therapy Assistants
Some of the best gifts really mean something to the person who receives them. Still stumped? Check out these fun ideas for the occupational therapy assistant you know and love.
11. Scrubs
New scrubs are certainly useful for occupational therapy assistants. Scrubs can come in a variety of colors and designs so you can have a bit more creativity when you pick the best option for your friend or family member. You could also purchase a gift card to a clothing store that carries scrubs.
12. Desk calendar
In this digital age, it’s easy to forget that some people prefer good old-fashioned calendars for their scheduling needs.
Consider a desk calendar that may have fun pictures of inspirational quotes that help your occupational therapy assistant stay inspired throughout the day. This is a fantastic gift option that doesn’t cost too much money, either.
13. Snacks
When you’re stuck on a gift idea, you can always get food. Snacks are a great addition to any working day, and getting snacks you can easily pack away is ideal.
Find out what your assistant prefers and then stock up on his or her favorite foods. People appreciate small gestures that help keep them comfortable and happy as they work.
14. Comfortable chair
Some occupational therapy assistants have office space. If so, then you could always give the one you know a comfortable chair. A good office chair is worth the investment.
Make sure you get the right size or one that is adjustable. A great chair can last an entire career, so make sure you choose this item wisely.
15. Subscriptions
There are a variety of occupational therapy-related magazines that could be an excellent gift. Search out some of the topic resources and then consider paying a year-long subscription to something useful and educational. (You could also get a subscription that has absolutely nothing to do with work.)
16. Watch
A watch has various features that may be helpful for an OT assistant. You may want to get something waterproof, with a stopwatch, or more.
These features may be useful during school and on the job. A great watch can be a cherished possession for many years to come.
Choose a Gift from the Heart
Gift-giving is done best when it comes from a place of sincerity. Whether you’re giving a gift for a birthday, graduation, or just because, remember to consider the recipient and what would mean the most. Of course, you know the person in your life the best, but these suggestions are excellent if you need a bit more direction.