Lakeridge Gardens residents knit ‘dignity blanket’ for use after a death

Residents at Lakeridge Gardens, Lakeridge Health’s long‑term care home, knitted individual squares into a single “dignity blanket” that will be used to cover a resident as they are accompanied out of the home after death, Lakeridge Health said Dec. 23.

The announcement outlines an end‑of‑life practice at the home and explains how the blanket will be used during a resident’s departure. It provides families and residents with details about the procedure followed after a death at the facility.

The blanket is reserved for that purpose at the home.

The project began with a resident knitting group that met over several months. Each participant created one square that was later joined to form the blanket. Residents and volunteers assembled the finished piece.

“Every individual who contributed to what we call our dignity blanket has left a lasting legacy, ensuring that no one leaves Lakeridge Gardens without being surrounded by the collective love of the community,” said Brian Pollard, Health System Executive, Clinical.

“We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the residents and volunteers whose time and talents brought this project to life,” added Lisa McVety, Administrator, Lakeridge Gardens. “It is a powerful reminder of the profound impact that even the simplest acts of kindness can have.”

Lakeridge Health published the details in a post on its website’s News and Stories section on Dec. 23. The post referred to the item as a “dignity blanket” and described its use following a resident’s passing at Lakeridge Gardens.