Fidget sleeves and touch quilts

How a fidget sleeve or touch quilt can help someone with dementia

People living with dementia typically experience gradual decreases in brain function, and simple, repetitive movements, and sensory stimulation becomes important to reduce behaviours associated with dementia. As the disease progresses, peoples’ hands become more nervous and fidgety, as they continually search for something to occupy them. Fidget Sleeves and Touch Quilts fulfill this pursuit, and provide senses of comfort through the hands and eyes. They also entertain people with dementia and can lift their spirits. Furthermore, these sleeves may occupy the person with dementia enough to allow their caregivers brief respite.

How to request a fidget sleeve or touch quilt

*Note the request must be from within the Alzheimer Society of Thunder Bay catchment area*

1. Download our request form. Fill out this form and email it to administration@alzheimerthunderbay.ca.
2. Phone the Alzheimer Society at 807-345-9556 to provide basic information about the person for whom the Fidget Sleeve is intended.
3. Visit our office at 1-1186 Roland St. Thunder Bay, ON

How to donate

All Fidget Sleeves and Touch Quilts are made by valued volunteers. If you would like to knit or crochet a Fidget Sleeve, please consider following the guidelines below:

• Ensure all attachments are secure to the sleeve and that there are no loose or small items that may pose as choking hazards.
• Attach a variety of doodads such as velcro, lace, buckles, buttons, gloves, beads, rope, etc.
• Using a pattern is not necessary, but if you would like to use a pattern click here.