Also one thing that could be done is long sleeve sweet shirts can be cut down the front in the middle then bind the edge and you have a quick top that will keep them warm. Also they wash very well and wear good to. But remember to make them bigger then there normal size because getting into things can be very hard for the elderly. You might also think about using fleece to make the lap blanket and just finish the edge with a pretty stitch. This also would be nice and warm. If I were you I think it would be nice if you could get a group of ladies together in your area to help with this. Could be alot of fun.