Weighted Blankets for Dementia Elders.
The onset of an individual’s dementia can be a difficult time for the entire family. Typically, the dementia becomes noticeable when a person begins repeating themselves, forget to perform everyday tasks, and have trouble putting names and faces of family members together. They may seek comfort and security by pacing, doing repetitive tasks or some other obsessive behaviour.
Giving the elder a weighted blanket provides comfort through the naturally pleasant feeling of being held. Many have described the added weight in a weighted blanket as feeling like a hug. Being able to give a loved one a “hug,” even if you aren’t there physically, will help the person relax through the transition. In care homes, weighted blankets have proven to keep residents calm during the night time hours. Often as dementia progresses, insomnia can become an issue. Sleeping for one or two hours during the night, then awakening only to wander around the house, is a common experience. Having a resident nap in a comfy chair in the lounge under a weighted blanket often helps.
The weighted blanket is not a restraint, they are light enough to lift off even by the most feeble of elders.
A selection of sellers in the UK
Patsy Pope is our Dementia Specialist and advocate for the elderly, with 30 years of experience working in dementia care, both in the UK and the USA. A career ladder spanning mental health nursing and psychology, frontline carer, recreational therapy, charge nurse, care home manager, service inspector and Ombudsman.