When aged-care residents of our Bonalbo, Nimbin and Urbenville Multi-Purpose Services (MPS) received a special delivery in November, it wasn’t just a bundle of blankets. It was a gift of comfort and creativity.
Just one month earlier, Bonalbo Country Women’s Association (CWA) President Helen Tart and her CWA colleagues hand-crafted 38 sensory blankets, which are now helping soothe and engage MPS residents who are living with cognitive impairment.
The tactile blankets help create a sense of calm while improving focus and enhancing hand-eye coordination. Each is unique and bright, featuring textures that invite residents to touch and interact.
Helen said the idea came from a flyer she happened to see.
“We were given a flyer asking craft groups if they were interested in making blankets,” Helen said.
“It’s the first time I became aware sensory blankets exist for people with Alzheimer's.
“We received the kits but I had no idea how to create the blankets. Once I worked out how to put things together, it became a bit of a production line.
“We thought we could help out by making a few, then a kit for 38 turned up.”
Helen, helped by her team of volunteers, used materials provided by Nursing and Midwifery Service Nurse Manager Clinical Practice Karen Bowen, who coordinates craft and sewing volunteers across the District.
Helen said she was happy to donate her time for such a great cause.
“To know the MPS residents are going to get a lot of joy out of seeing the colours and textures is great,” she said.
“The blankets are fun, bright and pretty. They can do a lot of things with them.
“I am pleased I sewed the blankets as well as I have. I would love to do it again.”
Why sensory blankets matter
Sensory blankets help comfort and stimulate people living with dementia and other cognitive conditions, making them ideal for aged care and inpatient settings.
The various textures and colours of each blanket aim to reduce anxiety and enhance hand-eye coordination.
The blankets are gifts to the people who receive them, giving our inpatients and MPS residents some comfort.
Are you crafty?
We are always looking for volunteers to make more sensory blankets.
If you have sewing, craft of basic handyperson skills and are interested in volunteering your time and creative skills, please email us.
Pictured:
Helen proudly displays some of the 38 sensory blankets she and her Bonalbo CWA colleagues crafted for our aged-care MPS residents.