20 Fidget Blankets for Autism, ADHD, Alzheimer’s, and Sensory Needs

 

Do you or a loved one struggle with restless hands and a need for tactile sensory input? If so, fidget blankets may be for you.

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Handmade Wooden Activity and Therapy Fidget Board with Gears for Dementia, Alzheimer's...
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Fidget Quilt Handmade in the U.S.A. Memory Loss & Alzheimer's Blanket Dementia...
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Sensory Toys for Alzheimer Patients Anxiety Relief Autistic Dementia Therapeutic Tool
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Last update was on: May 27, 2023 4:05 AM
Fidget sensory maze, ADHD, Special needs, Alzheimer’s, Dementia, Autism, Marble maze
Fidget Quilt, Busy Blanket, Sensory Mat for Memory Care, Dementia, Alzheimer’s, Seniors,...
Last update was on: May 16, 2023 2:30 AM

What are fidget blankets?

Fidget blankets are therapeutic lap-size quilts with various items sewn onto them for a person to play with, including buttons, beads, clips, gears, and plush toys. Some are designed to help develop or retain fine motor skills, and others just provide comfort and stress relief. The familiar objects on sensory quilts help users self-soothe and serve as a source of visual, tactile, and sensory stimulation. They often come in soothing pastel or cheerful bright colors and patterns, and may be themed around a particular interest, hobby, animal, etc. Fidget blankets are also known as fidget quilts, activity blankets, busy blankets, and sensory lap pads. Most fidget blankets are handmade by people running small home businesses. 

Who can use a fidget blanket?

Fidget blankets are for almost anyone! They were originally developed for elderly people with Alzheimer’s disease or dementia who need sensory input to cope with restlessness and confusion. But they’re also great for children and adults on the autism spectrum, those with ADHD, sensory processing disorder, developmental disabilities, stroke, brain injury, and anyone else who benefits from stimming — sensory stimulation. Stimming helps neurodivergent people cope with stressful situations and self-regulate when we struggle with loud noises, bright lights, and other sensory processing challenges.  As an autistic adult, I like lots of different stim toys, but fidget blankets and other soft fidget items have become important tools in my sensory toolbox.

Who should not use a fidget blanket?

Busy blankets may not be appropriate for children under 3, kids and adults with pica, and individuals with cognitive disabilities who tend to rip and tear fabric. Although most makers of sensory activity mats sew the items on securely, if your loved one is able to rip the ribbons or fabric, small objects such as beads could become a choking hazard. We’ve included activity mats with a wide variety of attached items so you can find one that is safe for the person who needs it. We also recommend that you supervise their use of the fidget quilt until/unless you can be sure of their safety. 

Do fidget blankets work?

Yes, studies show that the use of a fidget blanket helps reduce behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia such as anxiety, irritability, insomnia, and agitation. They can have similar benefits for anyone who struggles with these symptoms, including autistic people and those with ADHD or mental illness. If you think you or your relative could benefit from an activity mat, give it a try! 

What kinds of items should you sew on a fidget blanket?

Fidget quilts often feature buttons, ribbons, sequins, beads, pockets, small plush toys, and multiple fabric textures to provide lots of different sensations. Some people add scented items that promote relaxation using aromatherapy, especially lavender. My favorite sensory quilt has super soft minky fleece as the background and on the side that lays against your body. The flower stems are made with satin ribbon, and the petals of the flowers are made with cotton in various textures and colors. The center of each flower is a button. There are two strings of beads on ribbons to spin, and a small section of reversible sequins that change colors depending on which side is showing. All of these items are very satisfying to touch and fulfill my natural need to stim as a neurodivergent person. 

If you’re making your own fidget blanket, you can sew anything and everything you want on it. If you’re buying a sensory mat or board for yourself or a loved one, consider their abilities and goals first. For example, if you have a child with cerebral palsy who is working on fine motor skills in occupational therapy, you might get them a busy board with switches, lights, buttons, and buckles to practice. But if you have an elderly parent with Parkinson’s disease or arthritis, items that require hand dexterity and strength may be painful and frustrating to use.

What are the benefits of fidget blankets compared to other fidget toys?

Fidget blankets offer several advantages over other kinds of sensory toys you or your family member may have tried. For starters, they’re quiet. Unlike spinners or cubes, most if not all of the items attached to them are silent when you play with them. So if you need to stim at work or school, sensory mats are a great option. They’re soft and comforting to hold, and if you really want something cuddly, try a fidget pillow! Although busy blankets aren’t as compact as other fidget toys or fidget jewelry, it’s easy to roll them up and carry them in a backpack or purse.

Fidget Blankets and Soft Sensory Toys From Small Businesses

Here at the Ability Toolbox, we always support buying from small businesses if you can. Since fidget blankets can help people with very diverse needs, buying from an artisan is often your best option, as many sellers offer custom blankets that can provide exactly what you or your loved one needs. If you don’t need customization, we know it can be frustrating to wait a long time to receive things you order online, so we’ve listed several designers who have sensory items in stock and ready to ship.

This post contains affiliate links, so if you make a purchase, we may receive a small commission at no additional cost to you. 

Fidget Blankets 

Gorgeous Fidget Quilts

Adult Fidget Quilt
Adult Fidget Quilt
Adult Fidget Quilt
Last update was on: May 16, 2023 2:30 AM

If I could only buy one fidget blanket on this list, I’d choose one made by Jennifer from Bear and Peeps. These quilts are stunning treasures anyone would want to own and use, and the price is amazing — frankly, she should be charging more. In-stock items ship quickly from the USA.

Shop for fidget quilts at Bear and Peeps.

Fidget Quilt with Shirt

Patriotic, Military, USA pride Fidget, Sensory, Activity Quilt Blanket for Dementia, Alzheimers
Last update was on: May 16, 2023 2:30 AM

These fidget quilts feature a shirt with buttons to fasten and unfasten, plus lots of other activities. Even though they are handmade, they’re all ready to ship from the USA, so you won’t have to wait long to get a helpful tool for stimming and stress relief.

Shop for fidget quilts at Totally Sewn.

Fidget Blankets with Cute Animals

Puppies & Kittens Fidget Blanket #12-FREE SHIPPING--Memory Blanket, Fidget blanket, Alzheimer's, Dementia,...
Denim Farm, Picking Ruffles, & Gadgets Fidget Blanket #2 -FREE SHIPPING--Memory Blanket,...
Blissful Bear Fidget Blanket -FREE SHIPPING--Memory Blanket, Fidget blanket, Alzheimer's, Dementia, Autism,...
Last update was on: May 16, 2023 2:30 AM

What makes these fidget blankets unique is the adorable plush animals and toys attached. They are handmade and all listed items are ready to ship from the USA.

Shop for fidget blankets at Juju’s Gentle Living.

Weighted Lap Pad with Reversible Sequins

Hologram red/blue reversible sequins & minky weighted lap pad, kid lap pad,...
Rose gold/turquoise reversible sequins weighted lap pad, anxiety relief, ptsd, spd, autism,...
Neon Multi/Silver reversible sequins & minky weighted lap pad, kid lap pad,...
Last update was on: May 16, 2023 2:30 AM

This unique stim pad also gives you the benefits of a weighted blanket. And if you have never played with reversible sequins before, you’re missing out! These lap pads are a great option for older children and adults who need something portable that doesn’t stand out when you use it at work or school. The US-based designer, Faith, has a son with cerebral palsy and sensory processing disorder, and she realized that other kids and adults like him could benefit from weighted items. All items are made to order and can be weighted or non-weighted.  

Shop for reversible sequin weighted lap pads at Sensory Driven.

Crochet Fidget Blanket

OCTOPUS Crochet Fidget Blanket | washable l Sensory Lap Blanket for Adults...
Last update was on: May 16, 2023 2:30 AM

These unique sensory blankets are crocheted, and most of the fidget items on them are too. If you or your loved one prefers soft and fuzzy yarn, you’ll love these blankets.

Shop for crocheted fidget blankets at Miss Heidi’s House.

Memory Care Sensory Mat

Fidget Quilt, Busy Blanket, Sensory Mat for Memory Care, Dementia, Alzheimer’s, Seniors,...
Fidget Quilt, Busy Blanket, Sensory Mat for Memory Care, Dementia, Alzheimer’s, Seniors
Last update was on: May 16, 2023 2:30 AM

These sensory mats are geared toward Alzheimer’s / dementia patients and can help keep them grounded and calm using familiar objects. They ship quickly from the USA.

Shop for memory care mats at Ion Design Creations.

Themed Sensory Lap Quilt

CAT Fidget Activity Tactile Sensory Quilt Wheelchair Blanket for Alzheimer's, stroke, autistic,...
Fishing Outdoor Fidget Activity Tactile Sensory Quilt Wheelchair Blanket for Alzheimer autistic...
Happy HoNeY BEE LoVe ORANGE YELLOW Fidget Activity Quilt Blanket for Alzheimers...
Last update was on: May 16, 2023 2:30 AM

These sensory quilts are themed around various topics and activities. They’re perfect for an autistic person with a special interest or an elderly person with dementia to help bring back memories of a favorite job or hobby.

Shop for sensory quilts at Caring Heart Lovables.

 

Fidget Pillows, Plush Toys, and Soft Cubes

Fidget Pillows for Seniors

Fidget Pillow, Activity Pillow, Alzheimers Therapy Dementia Therapy, Autism Support, Special Needs,...
Alzheimers Care, Dementia Care, Busy Hands Activity, Alzheimers Gift, Dementia Gift, Lady's...
Fidget Pillow, Activity Pillow, Special Needs, Alzheimer Therapy, Dementia Therapy, Autisum Therapy,...
Last update was on: May 16, 2023 2:30 AM

These sweet pillows are styled for elderly people with Alzheimer’s disease and dementia. The seller offers free, fast shipping from the USA.

Shop for fidget pillows at KCW and Company.

Reversible Sequin Stim Pillow Case

Sequin Pillow • Gifts for Her Valentines • Picture Pillow • Picture Gifts • Memory Pillow • Custom Sequin Pillow Case Magic Reversible Throw

★★★★★
Etsy.com
as of May 16, 2023 2:30 AM

My favorite soft stim — reversible sequins! This pillow case can be customized with a photo of your choice, but it only takes 1 to 2 business days to print and ships from the USA, so this is a unique gift that will arrive quickly. You can buy just the case or the case and pillow insert.

Shop for custom reversible sequin pillows at Pacific Customs.

Animal Fidget Pillow

FIDGET PILLOW TURTLE Sensory, Tactile, Emotional, Alzheimer, Dementia, Brain Injury therapy

★★★★★
Etsy.com
as of May 16, 2023 2:30 AM

These charming animal-themed fidget pillows are great for older kids, adults, and seniors to help with sensory needs.

Shop for fidget pillows at Hearts of Gold Gifts.

Sensory Buckle Stuffed Animal

Sensory4u Owl Sensory Board - Busy Board for Kids - Activity Board...
Sensory4u Sensory Buckle Pillow Fine Motor Development Toy Activity - Plus Threading...
Last update was on: May 16, 2023 2:30 AM

This adorable plush narwhal features several different buckles to fasten and unfasten. Kids with autism and other developmental disabilities will love it! The company also makes busy boards and other fine motor skill development items. Fast shipping from the USA.

Shop at the Sensory4U store.

Sensory Cube

Soft fidget cube for autism.

This soft sensory cube has a big handle that makes it easy to hold, and lots of relaxing items to fiddle with on each side. The seller can customize items and is based in the UK, but ships internationally too.

Shop for fabric activity cubes and more at Sensory Creations.

Fidget Aprons

Activity aprons are great for people who wander or who sit in wheelchairs, as they stay on the person and won’t fall on the floor.

Activity Apron for Seniors

FIDGET PURSE/ HANDBAG /tote bag/ Alzheimer's/ Dementia/ Stroke Rehab/ Anxiety/ Sensory
FIDGET WORK APRON
ADULT FIDGET BASKET /Activity Basket/ Wheelchair Activity/ Alzheimer's/Brain Trauma/Stroke Rehab
ADULT FIDGET APRON / wheelchair activity
Last update was on: May 16, 2023 2:30 AM

This full-length apron with simple fidgets would make a great gift for someone with intellectual disabilities or dementia. Ships fast and free from the United States.

Shop for Alzheimer’s Aprons and Pillows.

 

Fidget Muffs

Fidget muffs are sleeves that can be worn on your arm so they’re easy to use and won’t fall on the floor out of reach. They make great hand-warmers too!

Garden-Themed Fidget Muffs

Not for Sale - DISPLAY ONLY- Made to Order - Dog Vest...
Last update was on: May 16, 2023 2:30 AM

These beautiful fidget muffs offer a garden of activities and textural delights. Each one is a work of art, yet they’re affordable and ship quickly from the USA.

Shop for a fidget muff at Awesome Creations by MC.

Sensory Muffs

Alzheimer's Muff - Dementia Muff - Fidget Muff - Cancer - Gift...
Alzheimer's and dementia - Dementia patients- Cancer Gifts for Dementia- Gift for...
Alzheimer's Muff - Dementia Muff - Fidget Muff - Cancer - Gift...
Alzheimer's and dementia - Dementia patients- Cancer Gifts for Dementia- Gift for...
Last update was on: May 16, 2023 2:30 AM

These beautifully-crafted sensory muffs are so warm and comfortable with lots of knitted accessories attached. They would make a great gift for teens or adults with ADHD or autism as they are school and work-appropriate. They’re also helpful in winter for those who can’t put on gloves due to arthritis or limited fine motor skills. These handmade treasures ship quickly from the USA.

Shop for activity muffs.

Twiddle Muff

Alzheimers Fiddle Muff, Rainbow Fiddle Muff, Crochet Muff, Anxiety Muff, Autism Fidget,...
Rainbow Twiddle Muff, Anxiety Muff, Alzheimer's Muff, Autism Muff, Hospice Muff, Crochet...
Anxiety Fiddle Muff, Rainbow Fiddle Muff, Crochet Muff, Alzheimer's Muff, Autism Muff,...
Last update was on: May 16, 2023 2:30 AM

This cozy twiddle muff has lots of beads and fuzzy balls to spin and twirl. The designer offers fast shipping from the USA.

Shop for fidget muffs at From the Heart by Mary.

Sensory Cuff

Fidget Cuff/Sensory Bracelet Alzheimer's Dementia A.d.h.d. Autisum soothing Twiddle calming focus Free...
Fidget Sleeve/Sensory Muff Twiddle Fiddle Alzheimer's Dementia A.D.H.D., Autisum, Soother, Hand Knit...
Fidget Sleeve/Sensory Muff Twiddle Fiddle Alzheimer's Dementia A.D.H.D., Autisum, Soother, Hand Knit...
Fidget Cuff/Sensory Bracelet Twiddle Medium Fiddle Alzheimer's Dementia a.d.h.d Autisum Soother USA...
Last update was on: May 16, 2023 2:30 AM

These charming knitted sensory muffs and cuffs come in different lengths and in child and adult sizes. The store ships quickly from the USA.

Shop for sensory cuffs at Amy’s Knitted Creations.

Fidget Books and Busy Boards

Sensory Activity Book

Senior care activities, Dementia senior gifts, Dementia gifts, Activity book adult, Alzheimer...
Dementia books, Fidget book, Fabric activity book for women, Adult sensory book,...
Fidget book for dementia, Sensory book dementia activities, Dementia gifts, Dementia awareness,...
Dementia activities, Dementia fidget book, Dementia quiet book, Lewy body dementia gift,...
Last update was on: May 16, 2023 2:30 AM

These fabric books contain several pages of items for fidgeting. The seller is in the Ukraine, working despite the war, and could use your support so they can survive and continue sewing these beautiful books and quilts.

Shop for sensory books at Lineara Handmade.

Busy Board

Adult fidget board, Dementia board, Sensory toys adult, Activity boards, Adult busy...
Dementia board, Busy board adult, Dementia fidget toy, Sensory board adults
Dementia activities, Board games for people with dementia, Dementia Busy Board, Dementia...
Sensory board for adults, Gift for dementia patient
Last update was on: May 16, 2023 2:30 AM

These therapeutic busy boards are made in Ukraine and feature lots of activities to help with fine motor skills.

Shop for busy boards at Lineara Handmade.

Fidget Board

Musical Sensory Board "Percussion" Instruments Sensory Activity Panel - Sensory boards for...
Six travel-size (5"x7") sensory boards. Sensory board for autism. Small sensory boards...
Sensory Wall Panels, Sensory toys, Sensory Boardsl, Sensory Toys for Autism, Alzheimer's,...
6-pack mini sensory boards (12"x9") Sensory board for autism. Small sensory boards...
Last update was on: May 16, 2023 2:30 AM

These fidget boards feature lots of items that will appeal to kids (use with supervision) and seniors alike. The seller is based in the USA and can customize boards or build one just for you.

Shop at Sensory Crafters.

Fidget Blankets From Amazon

Didn’t find what you needed from any of the small businesses listed above? Amazon also has some activity mats, aprons, and boards.

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

Sensory Toys for Alzheimer Patients Anxiety Relief Autistic Dementia Sensory Arm Pillow...
$15.88
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Amazon Amazon.com
-10% HarVow Busy Board for Toddlers, Sensory Activity Board for Preschool Learning Toys...
$17.90 $19.89
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Amazon Amazon.com
Esjay Toddler Busy Board, Sensory Board for Fine Motor Skill, Montessori Toys...
$19.99
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Amazon Amazon.com
Fidget Blanket for Dementia Patients Alzheimers Sensory Blanket for Adults with Dementia...
$26.99
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Amazon Amazon.com
Fidget Blanket for Elderly Dementia Alzheimer’s Therapy Activity Apron Anxiety Relief Solutions...
$28.32
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Amazon Amazon.com
Ecovona - Special Needs Sensory Therapy Activity Apron (Adult Size) for Seniors...
$29.99
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Amazon Amazon.com
Sensory Toys for Alzheimer Patients Anxiety Relief Autistic Dementia Therapeutic Tool
$38.68
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Amazon Amazon.com
-30% Fidget Blanket for Elderly, Dementia Alzheimers Products, Sensory Blanket Memory Loss Fidget...
$38.99 $55.99
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Fidget Blanket for Alzheimer Patients Anxiety Relief Autistic Dementia Therapeutic Tool Sensory...
$43.99
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Fidget Blanket for Dementia Memory Loss Sensory Activities for Seniors Adults Patients...
$44.99
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Fidget and Sensory APRON Handmade in the U.S.A. for People with Memory...
$49.95
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Amazon Amazon.com
Twiddle Sensory Toys for Dementia and Alzheimers Patients - Fidget Toys for...
$55.00
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Amazon Amazon.com
Fidget Quilt Handmade in the U.S.A. for People with Memory Loss. Alzheimer's...
$62.95
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Amazon Amazon.com
Fidget Quilt Handmade in the U.S.A. Memory Loss & Alzheimer's Blanket Dementia...
$63.95
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Montessori Busy Board for Toddlers-Busy Board Toys Learn to Dress Toys for...
$86.99
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Handmade Wooden Activity and Therapy Fidget Board with Gears for Dementia, Alzheimer's...
$98.95
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Amazon Amazon.com
Last update was on: May 27, 2023 4:05 AM
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Hey I'm Olivia and I'm a proud Autistic woman. My special interests are cats, stim toys, and electronic music! I love to write and help other Autistic adults find ways to enjoy life in this LOUD world!

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