GADS early Christmas gift
The Gibraltar Alzheimer’s and Dementia Society will be handing out fidget-busy blankets this week to all patients suffering with Alzheimer’s and dementia. Last week at the Catholic Community Centre members and volunteers displayed the 251 blankets which had been made over the past two months. As from today the society will be handing out the blankets to Alzheimer’s and dementia patients at Ocean View, St Bernard’s Hospital, Mount Alvernia, the John Mackintosh Wing and other Elderly Care wards.
As children are often calmed by their favourite toy or blanket, a person with Alzheimer’s or dementia may also be soothed by these blankets, said chairperson Daphne Alcantara.
“In the latter stages of the disease dementia patients are unable to concentrate on reading or watching television and they might become restless and tend to fidget with their hands. These blankets help with sensory stimulation and keep their hands busy and their minds occupied thus reducing the potential for agitation,” she explained.
All the blankets have a variety of zips, buttons, and different materials, re-used and re-cycled old clothes.
GADS is grateful to all those dedicated ladies who have offered their time and supported by helping and making these blankets throughout the months of October to December. In the new year the society is expected to continue with their weekly sessions making blankets and other items and aims to also provide friends, families and caregivers with a forum where they can share their experiences and also seek practical advise or emotional support.
If anyone knows of someone who is living at home and would like one of these blankets they should contact GADS, on mobile 54001422 or email: gads@gibtelecom.net or via their FaceBook. They are being handed out as Christmas gift.