There is a local club that meets to make fidget aprons, I used to think this was a worthwhile activity until I noticed that no one in mom's nursing home uses them. So I'd like to know, does your loved one use a "fidget" item? Are there certain designs that work better than others?
My Mom's fidget activity was folding washcloths. She loved doing it at my house so when she went to the NH I brought her a basket of about a dozen in different colors and textures. Washcloths are just the right size to fit on a wheelchair tray.
Mom also loved sorting things. Coins for me or beads for the activity center. She loved matching socks into pairs.
Each of these activities to combat restlessness felt useful to her. There was a reason for arranging the beads by color -- makes it easier for folks working on jewelry. Jeanne needed the coins sorted for vending machines. The washcloths fit into the linen closet once they were folded. I noticed with my husband also that he wanted to do things for a reason.
My babies loved their fidget toys just to fidget. Wow! If you shake this it makes a sound. If you turn it upside down it looks like a candle. You can roll it.
I think adults do better with a purpose. Buttoning is good if it holds Teddy's vest on. Buttoning just because there is a button may not be as satisfying.
(Both my mother and my husband had dementia, but neither one was ALZ type.)
This is a great topic, CW. I hope we hear from more people with experience.