ASG Tucson: Comm Service: Fidget aprons

ASG, Tucson Chapter Community Service

Fidget Aprons

Sometimes known as "Busy" or "Activity" aprons, Fidget aprons are designed for individuals suffering from dementia. The combined fabric textures and embellishments provide a distraction that keeps the affected wearers entertained for hours. The aprons can be purchased on the internet for $30 and up, but making them is a popular and creative outreach project. Ready-made chef's aprons can also be purchased and embellished if desired.

Chapter member Jody Elmer (seen at right) led a campaign to make as many aprons possible in 2007. Having lost her mother to Alzheimer's disease, Jody knew how valuable the aprons were to both the afflicted individual and appointed caregiver.

The Chapter held its first apron sewing day in August 2007. A pattern was provided and supplies were bought and donated.

Trinkets of all kinds were collected along with bindings, cordings, elastic, and fabrics with various textures and lofts. People who didn't sew could help cut out the aprons and assemble kits matching up trinkets and fabrics. All sewn aprons were donated locally. The Chapter received gratitude and rave reviews from the AZ Alzheimer's Association, nursing homes and individual staffers, patients and patients' families.

Along the way, tips were shared. One observer pointed out that most apron wearers look down at their aprons. Therefore some of the designs were applied in a way that appeared upside down to the average onlooker. But when the wearers looked down, they could see the design looking back at them.

The leftover materials from the sew-a-thon were passed on to others and the momentum continued.

More Chapter

members had a great time

putting together their talents, creativity and lots more aprons.

People from all over heard about the aprons made by Tucson ASG. They would contact the chapter for advice about organizing an apron community effort in their home towns. One lady from Canada sent a photo of her finished apron to share after contacting the Chapter. She's seen on the right wearing a waist-wrapped style half apron.

Queries on how to make the aprons seemed to come in fits and starts. Just when the interest started to wane, more people would surface and ask how to get involved. Because of the periodic interest, the Chapter produced a published reference available to anyone who wants Fidget apron information. A suggested pattern is included along with lots of photos for sharing creative ideas and results.

To get a copy of the reference, click on the apron photo and download a 6-page PDF file. Share it with anyone interested and spread the word of this critical need. The reference should provide a quick start on how to proceed with your own Fidget apron journey!

This page last modified 12/1/11