Several seniors who love to sew are helping others battling dementia and autism by designing and sewing a very special kind of blanket as seen on WEAU and WQOW. 

“They are called fidget blankets because they have a number of items sewn on them for people to explore with their hands and fingers. It’s designed to be a calming item to help reduce anxiety”, said Grace Willowbrook Assisted Living Director Peg Husby.

Husby says the sewing seniors design the blankets to have different buttons, zippers, beads, pockets or Velcro on them. Each blanket is designed to have different textures and items that stimulate the sense of touch. When finished these special blankets will be given to memory care centers and to local schools to enhance the lives of others. 

“This activity for Willowbrook residents taps into their creativity; so the project is a win win! Everyone has a desire to help others in some way and this new project will spread love and compassion to those in our community who need it most,” Husby added.

Grace Lutheran Communities has been helping our friends and neighbors in communities all over the Chippewa Valley since 1960. The non-profit organization specializes in rehabilitation, assisted living, skilled nursing, memory care, child care, independent living, and adult day services.