In 2015, the members of Racing Fingers Quilt Guild decided to assist elderly Alzheimer’s and dementia patients at Florida Hospital by providing them with something to keep their hands occupied, thus preventing them from fidgeting with the equipment used during their care. Guild members made nine-patch mini-quilts with tactile and manipulative objects such as textured fabric, old thread spools, cording, zippers, buttons, and Velcro tabs attached. The quilts were laundered, placed in plastic bags that included future washing instructions, and delivered to Florida Hospital. The nursing staff were thrilled with the donation and have made good use of these quilts which will go home with the patients. Guild members are continuing to make these quilts.

During the 2019 American Quilters’ Society Quilt Week held at the Daytona Beach Ocean Center, AQS and other corporations provided the guild with a booth and donations of fabric and embellishments. Many people stopped by and wanted to participate in or to learn about this outreach project. Over 60 fidget quilts were completed. The majority were sent to Florida Hospital. Over 20  quilts were donated to individuals who expressed a specific need…it was very rewarding to see how much joy they brought to those who requested them.

This project has been so successful that guild members have been asked to supply 13″ x 18″ Fidget Mats for the the Activity Room at the Emory L. Bennett Veterans Nursing Home in Daytona Beach.