One of the problems with ageing can be feeling the cold more. The Quilters and Patchworkers of New England (QPNE) donated more than 20 lap quilts to the Ken Thompson Lodge (RFBI Armidale Masonic Village) on Thursday.
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They're attractive, with floral designs, stars, echidnas, or cats popping out of boxes. They're also both light and warm - ideal for old bones.
"Each resident will probably have one in their room for their knees," lifestyle manager and quilter Carol Thrift said. The quilts will also be put in the lounge room so residents can grab them when feeling chilly.
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The Quilters and Patchworkers have made quilts for Ken Thompson Lodge for at least 11 years, and have donated knee rugs over the last year.
"The residents really love them," Ms Thrift said. "They find them soothing; instead of great, heavy blankets, they have these nice, light quilts. We're so thankful to the Patchworkers and Quilters."
QPNE president Jennifer Richards said: "We're happy to share our skills with people, and help the community as well."
The group received a grant from Armidale Regional Council for the wadding that goes between the two layers of the quilt - "one of the most expensive things in making them," QPNE member Robyn Wood said.
The rest of the quilts are made of fabrics from members' stashes, or knitted and crocheted.
The group's next project, Ms Richards said, would be quilts with zips, bobbles, and buttons. "Some of the members with dementia really like to fiddle with things," Ms Wood said. Ms Thrift has already made one.
"We just like being part of the community doing this," QPNE member Margaret Schaefer said.
The group meets every week at the Masonic Village - the day group on the first and third Thursday of the month, the night group on the second and fourth Wednesday. New members are always welcome.