Crochet Along Fidget/Sensory Blanket for Alzheimer's

This is part 1 of the Crochet Along Fidget/Sensory Blanket for Alzheimer’s, a project dedicated to all persons suffering from any form of memory and cognitive disabilities. Before proceeding to Part 2, Part 3 and Part 4, please read through the post.

It is a project I would love as many of you to join me in because of what it symbolises- a piece of comfort and stability, especially for those experiencing Alzheimer’s.

Sometime in 2017 I came across an article, it was quite popular at the time, about a woman whose mother suffers from Alzheimer’s. She posted a picture of how her mother’s crocheting had deterioted due to the disease.

This photo struck me, as it did many others because it kind of gave me an understanding of how bad this disease can be, and I could never imagine what it would be like losing my ability to create beautiful things or see someone I love go through such.

I could never imagne growing old and being struck by a disease that could leave me unable to button or unbutton my shirt, hold and use a crochet hook or even remember who my children are. I could never imagine it! And it pains my heart that people are actually going through this.

However, that’s not what go me started on this Fidget/Sensory Blanket. In fact, I never knew anything about them. But as I always say, “thank God for Pinterest”. I came across this type of blanket sometime in May this year and the first thing I remebered was the story of that woman.

And I thought to myself, “why not make one with crochet?”. I needed to see if this was something I could create, and now it means a lot more to me than any other project I have designed.

Since all the Fidget/Sensory Blankets I saw were sewn, I studied the photos, checking what safe elements I could use that would work well with the yarn. I also felt this blanket should be as simple as possible, not too busy, not scanty either. And though this is my first try, I think it came out well.

From what I’ve learnt about Fidget/Sensory blankets, they only need to be big enough to lay on the lap for easy reach. This blanket is made in 6 blocks which are joined together and measures 17.2″ wide by 21″ tall (after blocking). Should you decide to sew one, you may find this article helpful on how to make a fidget blanket.

This Fidget/Sensory blanket is so special to me, not that I personally know anyone suffering from Alzheimer’s or Dementia, but just for what it symbolises- Hope, Stability, Memories.

I may have no one to give it to right now, but it so happens our toddler began playing with it right before I assembled all the blocks. So it’s still useful for toddlers to build cognitive and motor skills. What a win-win!

You might ask, “why crochet one when I can just buy one?”. Well, I’ll counter-ask “You have the ability to make awesome things with crochet, why not do it?”

So, what will you be needing for this Crochet Along? 10 different sized buttons (some of which you already have in your craft stash or pluck out the ones from clothing you no longer use), 2 zippers, 25 grms or less of contrast yarn, beads and you’re set. Oh, I must not forget the yarn to actually make the blocks- less than 500 yards (I used only 1 and a half balls of what you see in the photo).

Crochet Along Fidget/Sensory Blanket for Alzheimer’s- Free Pattern

See Part 2, Part 3 and Part 4.

I’m excited to have you join me and see what yours will look like.

Join me on our private facebook group for updates and to share your progress and thoughts. Thank you.