Old, young, and people in between have taken up knitting. For those who know a knitter, their friends, family members, teachers, and more can likely look forward to scarves, blankets, sweaters, etc. as gifts for holidays, birthdays, and other special occasions. For those who love to knit, one way to positively contribute to the lives of others is to knit hats, lap blankets, scarves, and others for people with dementia/Alzheimer’s, older adults, individuals in assisted living facilities, etc. To thank generations for all they’ve contributed, knitting gifts for older adults is a loving endeavor.
However, many older adults also like to knit. It helps pass the time, can be done in groups (thereby promoting socialization), is a great way to have gifts ready when needed, and helps keep their mind sharp and hands flexible.
Here, we’re going to offer some advice and knitting tips for older adults who enjoy the craft.
Blankets
Whether you’re knitting a baby blanket, a throw for someone’s couch, a blanket for a retirement age friend or relative, or someone else, there are a few things that you may want to keep in mind:
- Depending on who’s going to be using the blanket, you might want to steer away from lacey patterns. If the individual to whom you’re giving the blanket can get their fingers or toes caught in the holes, go with a different pattern.
- That said, interesting stitch patterns are a great idea. The raised stitches involved in square patterns are visually and texturally stimulating and attention-grabbing.
- Bright colors are favorites for many individuals. Possibly, somewhere in your collection, a few colors that were seemingly “too loud” might be the perfect thing to bring out now. Make something that stands out, attracts attention, and can be a real conversation starter.
Good Patterns and a Bonus
Some great ideas where patterns are concerned are those involving geometrics. To add interest to your piece, consider seed or moss stitches, herringbone, or basketweave.
Just for fun, and as a little bonus, you might consider sewing a simple, small square pocket on your blanket for an extra practical touch. It’s a great place to hold things like tissues.
Knitting for Donations
If you’re going to be donating the items you knit to a nursing facility, for example, consider the following:
- Hand knitted socks or slippers
- Walker or wheelchair totes
- Gloves
- Shawls
- Lap blankets/small afghans (45″ x 36″ or so)
Additional tips:
- To brighten the day of the person receiving your knitted craft, consider bright colors and extra soft yarn.
- On the bottom, any slippers you knit should have some kind of skid-resistant material or paint applied.
Enjoy Your Favorite Pastimes – Like Knitting – at Spring Mill
Discover retirement living at its finest in Spring Mill. There’s always something to do, no matter your passion. Engage in knitting, crafting, watching movies with others, going to a dance – the possibilities are very nearly limitless. Our community calendar is full, so your loved one never needs to feel bored or unfulfilled.
