There are patterns out there for toddler busy books where they have ties and zippers and whatnot. I'd use the pages as blocks... I know I have seen some free ones online.

I will admit that I didn't read every response here. Maybe someone else suggested it already :)

That's a great idea! When my mother was in the nursing home with Alzheimers, I made her a quilted purse that had zippered pockets on the inside and outside and filled it with stuff like a note pad,a pen, a calendar filled with family birthday dates, comb, chapstick, small photo album, wallet with change, etc. She loved it and it kept her quite busy checking it all out. Please post what you make so we can all see! (((HUGS)))

what a fantastic idea. I know, when my DSIL's dad was confined to a nursing home, the Alzheimers wing had chests of drawers in the hallways, filled with 'things'. They helped keep the residents happy. You are doing something very very special. Please post your progress.

Add some keys to the fidget blanket ... either on the outside, or on a string in the pockets

Very interesting - I never heard of these before but what a great idea!

I never heard of these either, what a great idea. Lots of good ideas here. Great thing for you to do.

When my kids were little, DM made them activity books- I imagine they could be converted to adult status and searched for easily on the internet. This epidemic of alzheimers is so tragic.

Thanks, that is a great idea.

That's kind of what I was thinking too. If you look at activity pads for babies you might get some good ideas - I remember having toys similar to things already mentioned for my kids somewhere between their newborn and toddler ages.

Here's one that has photos and sensory items.
http://www.flickr.com/photos/picturesbyann/4207842423/