Fancy gadgets don't make a quilter. Think of the pioneers and how they quilted. They had to use whatever was on hand. I remember my gr-grandmother making comforts out of our old clothes. I know she did not have a machine and they were tied, but they served the purpose and I know she enjoyed making them. That is what counts. If you enjoy the process that is all that is important. God Bless you for being such a dedicated caregiver. May you have many more years of happy quilting!