![[Dementia Prevention] Introducing Easy Knitting!](https://i.ytimg.com/vi/-M16L3fUTlQ/sddefault.jpg)
Knitting is effective for preventing dementia.
When you knit, various brain functions are activated, which can slow the progression of dementia.
Because knitting involves using your hands, it stimulates the brain’s motor and sensory areas.
Also, working while looking at a knitting pattern helps train cognitive abilities such as concentration and memory.
Furthermore, the sense of accomplishment you feel when you finish a piece brings joy to the brain and helps relieve stress.
The projects we’re introducing this time are all easy enough for beginners.
By all means, consider adopting knitting as a new hobby for older adults.
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[Dementia Prevention] Introducing Simple Knitting! (1–10)
arm warmers
When you think of knitting, you probably picture using two needles.
This time, we’re introducing arm warmers made with a circular knitting loom.
Looms and yarn are easy to prepare, as they’re sold at 100-yen shops and similar stores.
Hook the yarn onto the loom’s pegs as you knit.
Once you learn the method, you can focus and get into the flow.
Older adults who used to enjoy knitting will likely have fun with this project.
It’s easier than hand knitting, so it’s also recommended for seniors trying knitting for the first time.
Use your favorite yarn to make lovely arm warmers that will be perfect for outings in the cold season.
muffler
When it comes to knitting classics, many people probably think of scarves.
You can make a scarf by knitting straight, but the width can end up getting narrower or wider.
Scarves do require some knitting tricks, though some older adults may be able to produce them neatly at a consistent width.
One of the nice things about knitting is that you can work on it while listening to tips on techniques like these.
As you reminisce about your knitting memories, conversations with others are likely to flow.
Enjoy a pleasant time while creating wonderful pieces.
knitted yarn coaster
Energize your brain with handwoven coasters! Knitting with needles can feel intimidating, but using a loom and wrapping the yarn makes it relatively accessible, even if you’re not confident with fine handwork.
You’ll need a loom and some thick paper for the coasters.
Secure the yarn firmly in the notch at the upper left of the loom, then start wrapping it vertically.
Once you hook the end into the notch at the lower right, slide a strip of thick paper (cut into a long, narrow piece) under the wrapped vertical yarn from the side, and use a tapestry needle to weave the weft thread over it.
Continue weaving to create your preferred pattern, and finish by tying a knot to secure everything—done!
tote bag
Here’s an introduction to a crocheted tote bag that looks handy for quick shopping trips or a stroll.
We’ll use a crochet hook to work it up.
Making a bag can seem difficult, but the large flat sections are worked using the same stitch pattern throughout.
Please offer support at key points—like the starting rounds—based on the needs of older adults.
Since you move the hook with your fingers, it can also be good brain training.
You can focus and make it on your own, or enjoy chatting with others while you crochet.
The finished bag would make a delightful gift, too.
It’s also a bag you can use when visiting a care facility.
lap blanket
Keep your feet warm by trying a crocheted lap blanket.
It’s made with a single crochet hook, and seniors who enjoy knitting and crochet can work through it smoothly.
There are some tricky parts, so please offer support if any seniors find it difficult.
You’ll use several stitch patterns, making it a rewarding project.
Once it’s finished, they’re likely to feel a strong sense of accomplishment.
A lap blanket that’s sure to be useful on cold days.
When something they made themselves becomes part of everyday life, it can really add a spark to a senior’s daily routine.
clutch bag
Are you familiar with a material called T-shirt yarn? T-shirt yarn is made by cutting leftover fabric from T-shirts and cut-and-sew garments into long, narrow strips so that it resembles knitting yarn.
You can even recycle T-shirts you actually wore by turning them into T-shirt yarn and making new creations.
This time, we’re introducing a clutch bag made using T-shirt yarn, which is also sold pre-wound like yarn at 100-yen shops.
Unlike regular yarn, it doesn’t feel hot to the touch, so it’s great for summer projects.
The process isn’t very complicated, and you can make it with a knitting machine, making it easy for seniors to try as well.
You can also attach a strap to turn it into a crossbody bag—there are plenty of possibilities depending on your ideas.
room socks
As the weather turns chilly, some older adults may be worried about cold feet.
Here’s a project that can help keep your feet warm and make daily life more comfortable: knitting room socks using a loom and yarn, both of which can be found at 100-yen shops.
Choose thick, fluffy yarn for warmer socks—it’s highly recommended.
Since you’ll use a knitting loom, it’s easier than traditional hand knitting with needles.
Moving your fingers and hands to hook the yarn onto the loom’s pegs also helps stimulate the brain.
The finished socks are great for home use and would make a thoughtful gift for family members too.