People with dementia often find comfort in having something for their hands 

to do, especially those that are staying in an unfamiliar hospital or care home. Fidget quilts can help those with dementia feel calm while also keeping them occupied. 

As part of the NFWI’s Carers Welcome campaign, we’re encouraging WI members to sew fidget quilts and donate them to their local hospital ward for use by patients with dementia. We’re asking that WI members use the donation as an opportunity to ask hospital officials about the care they provide for those with dementia. 

Since these interactive textiles are meant to stimulate memory, it is important that fidget quilts trigger the senses by using different textures and embellishments as much as possible. They also provide a nice opportunity for you to try your hand at different sewing techniques. You can create your own original fidget quilts or you can use the patterns and ideas created by Jan White, a former costume designer and member of Haywards Heath WI, West Sussex Federation.