Thornhill puts Alzheimer’s in spotlight

As part of Thornhill Manor’s 2024 Alzheimer’s and Dementia Awareness Drive, resident and retired occupational therapist Vicky Keenan created fidget cushions and blankets to support the Thembalami Care Centre’s residents.

A donated bag of materials allowed the residents to make their own fidget items.

“Fidget cushions and blankets are simple yet powerful tools that can significantly improve the quality of life for those with dementia,” explained Thornhill Manor’s social worker, Karen Griessel.

ALSO READ: Thornhill Manor hosts annual fête

Crafted from various textures and materials, including zippers, buttons, ribbons, silk and bells, the items offer sensory stimulation that helps soothe and engage.

“People with dementia often show anxiety or restlessness with their hands, such as pulling at clothing or wringing their hands,” Griessel said.

“Fidget blankets help calm these behaviours, offering a gentle, engaging way to focus their hands and minds, making it a useful tool for one-on-one occupational therapy.”

ALSO READ: Thornhill Manor marks Alzheimer’s Awareness Month

Thornhill Manor thanked Carol Foulis and the ‘knit and natter’ group for their donated soft toys and resident Sylvia Sinclair, who hand-crafted teddy bears for the centre.

Many of Thembalami’s residents received a soft toy to keep, an addition Griessel believes has notable benefits.
“Soft toys bring comfort and support the well-being of dementia patients,” she said.