News

Actions

‘Twiddlemuffs' ease anxiety for seniors with dementia, sundown syndrome

Posted at 4:30 AM, Aug 10, 2017
and last updated 2017-08-10 09:00:47-04

WHEAT RIDGE, Colo. — If you or someone you know suffers from dementia, you understand that each day comes with challenges. A local senior care center is taking on those hurdles and starting a club to battle the memory and sensory issues.

A knitting group at MorningStar Assisted Living and Memory Care in Wheat Ridge is creating what's called "Twiddlemuffs." The muffs are knitted with buttons, zipper, ribbons and other attachments to keep seniors busy; Especially when they are dealing with confusion late in the day, also known as sundowning. Most importantly, the center said this craft gives seniors a sense of purpose.

"Whether it's sorting, wrapping, putting stuff in bags, actually knitting, sewing; Everybody gets to use a skill which is huge," said master knitter and craft organizer Claudia Czajkowski.

The group is planning to make this a weekly activity for residents. They also plan to donate the “Twiddlemuffs” to help other seniors in the area facing dementia.

To learn more about “Twiddlemuffs” click for background information and patterns to create your own at home.