‘A game changer in dementia care’

Earlier this year, the Ladies Craft Group at Resthaven Mount Gambier began their weekly project of knitting fidget rugs, as a gift to the memory support area.

Lifestyle Coordinator, Carolyn Taylor says, ‘fidget rugs are quilt size blankets that are great for the older community who struggle with restless hands.’

‘Residents with Alzheimer’s and dementia particularly benefit, as these rugs are embellished with many different textures, such as zippers, cords and buttons, which can help to significantly soothe them.’

With the help of volunteers, Wendy and Gill, the group began knitting squares in February.

‘The ladies started knitting individual squares, which we then secured and attached to a backing – a lovely heavy-duty navy floral picked by the group.’

‘They ended up completing two large fidget rugs throughout the year, which are now being used in the memory support unit.’

‘One member of the craft group has been seen relaxing in her chair with the rug quite a lot! She just loves it.’

There is one resident, however, who is a natural fidgeter and particularly benefits from the fidget rug.

‘Since he started using it, we noticed a huge difference– it can calm him down instantly.’

‘Fidget rugs truly are incredible and are a game changer in dementia care.’

Established in 1935, Resthaven is a South Australian not-for-profit aged care community service associated with the Uniting Church in Australia.

Every day, Resthaven shares the lives and wisdom of older people and their carers, opening doors to the full range of aged care service options available.

Services are provided throughout metropolitan Adelaide, the Adelaide Hills, Murraylands, Riverland, Fleurieu Peninsula, lower Barossa region and the Limestone Coast of South Australia.