Do you know an elderly friend or relative who needs something to do with their hands? Are you often on the hunt to find something to help a senior pass the time now that they are less active and/or more restless?
During this two-hour workshop, the group will be introduced to the purpose and value of fidget mats and view books, as well as considerations of safety in selecting items to use. Each participant will have the opportunity to make their own customized fidget item and/or view book.

Optional Attachments for the Fidget Mat

Participants are encouraged to bring items for personalizing their creation and making it more meaningful to their intended senior.

If cleaning out junk drawer, a jewellery box, or sewing/craft supplies, please consider bringing items for use by yourself or other participants. Items such as buttons, old zippers, swatches of cloth, yarn, ribbon, earrings, broaches, and knick-knacks may all find a use as fidget items.

Some commonly used supplies will be provided.

For view books (at right), an album with photos and pictures, a collection of pages from discarded wall calendars, art cards, family photos, and any other visual images that catch attention or potentially elicit meaningful memories, are effective.
A view book


Workshop Leader
Join Nancy Pitts, an ADRP Board member and retired Associate Professor, Faculty of Agriculture, for a participatory workshop on making Fidget Mats and View Books. Nancy is trained as an end-of-life doula and a volunteer with Colchester East Hants Hospice. She has been inspired to make some items for her own Senior Comfort Chest, along with a detailed Advanced Care Plan.

Details
Monday, March 24, 2025: 9:30 am – 11:30 am
Storm Date: Thursday, March 27, 2025
Monaghan Square, 6140 Young Street, Halifax
5th Floor Meeting Room

Hot beverages and a treat provided as well as basic supplies for the creation of your Fidget Mat and/or View Book. Participants are encouraged to supplement the items available with fidget items or pictures that would be particularly meaningful to the Elderly Senior that is the intended recipient.  

There is no cost to attend but registration is limited due to space. Please register by Wednesday March 19th. To register email Secretary@theadrp.ca with “Fidget” in the subject line. Include your name, email address, phone number (and number of participants if you are bringing a friend). Note, that the Workshop Leader, Nancy Pitts, will email you inviting you to do some reflection and planning, in advance to make the workshop more meaningful and fun.