Dementia Sufferers Could Benefit From Gardening

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Dementia Sufferers Could Benefit From Gardening
We all know how good we feel after a spot of gardening and now it is thought this green leisure activity could help individuals who are experiencing dementia.

The combination of fresh air, physical exercise, sense of achievement and being surrounded by nature, all contribute to a person's wellbeing when gardening.

Jeremy Hughes, Alzheimer's Society chief executive said: "A garden can help people living with dementia. They can enjoy socialising, as well as taking part in physical activity and stimulating the senses, all of which greatly improve their wellbeing.".

In addition to getting a general sense of wellbeing, dementia suffers typically benefit from the regular nature of gardening - tending to plants, sowing and watering, and harvesting. These activities provide structure to a person's day and make them feel in control, as well as helping them make sense of the world around them. Gardening can also improve individuals' fine motor skills and spatial awareness, reports the Herts and Essex Observer.

Those with onset dementia could also benefit from gardening, for all the same reasons plus the fact such tasks could help replace the patterns from when the individuals worked.

Jill Walton, support group co-ordinator at the Frontotemporal Dementia Support Group, which offers support and guidance to carers of young people with dementia, said: "Younger people with dementia want and need activities which are stimulating, fulfilling and productive because they are still seeking activities which mimic the workplace model.".

A recent survey conducted by Homebase revealed that 83 % of dementia sufferers want to live in their own homes for as long as they can. This is why making the most of their gardens can prove so beneficial. The charity Thrive, which supports horticultural therapy, suggests keeping the garden simple yet appealing for those with dementia - for example, having paths that don't suddenly end is a good idea, such as a loop, and places to sit are ideal also. Make certain there are garden benches or a table with parasol near picturesque parts of the individual's garden, and focal points are located in the shade and away from the elements.

When it comes to planting, naturally you need to choose carefully to avoid any toxic or prickly plants which could harm people with dementia. Instead, select interesting plants like lavender and rosemary, and if possible include the individual suffering from dementia in the decision making process, as some plants may evoke childhood memories and create a sense of security and happiness.


In addition to getting a general sense of wellbeing, dementia suffers typically benefit from the regular nature of gardening - tending to plants, sowing and watering, and harvesting. A recent survey conducted by Homebase revealed that 83 % of dementia sufferers want to live in their own homes for as long as they can. The charity Thrive, which supports horticultural therapy, suggests keeping the garden simple yet appealing for those with dementia - for example, having paths that don't suddenly end is a good idea, such as a loop, and places to sit are ideal.