Dementia Action Week: why spending time outdoors can help people living with dementia
As the winter chills lift and the days grow longer, many people will be looking forward to spending more time in their gardens this summer. However, for people living with dementia, gardening can offer so much more than a seasonal hobby.
From stimulating memories, to supporting wellbeing and independence, spending time outside can provide so many meaningful health benefits. For those who don't have a garden or outdoor space at home, public parks, community gardens and botanic gardens have welcoming places to sit and enjoy the change of season outside.
Professor June Andrews OBE, Special Advisor and friend of the Dementia Trust, is sharing why time outdoors can be particularly valuable for people living with dementia.
June said:
"Sometimes people caring for someone with dementia ask me for ideas of things to do and the brighter weather is a timely reminder that spending time outdoors can make a real difference to daily life and staying well.
“For people with dementia many outdoor activities, including gardening, are valuable because they allow them to use familiar skills and expertise that they can even teach other people. Fresh air and movement can improve mood and reduce restlessness and avid gardeners will know that this can be a great tool for everyone when it comes to staying healthy.
“Many people with dementia struggle with disrupted sleep and so exposure to natural daylight, especially in the mornings, can help the body reset its rhythm too.”
June’s top garden tips for families to support those living with dementia:
The most important thing for a person with dementia is to change as little as possible in their own space because they are likely to become confused by things they don’t recognise. Other simple things you can do to help include:
Keep things as simple as possible, starting with tasks that the person is already familiar with. Let them take the lead if possible.
Include plants for eating as well as flowers.
Take time and enjoy the process, don’t worry too much about the results and just enjoy talking and spending time together.
It’s a good opportunity to allow them to burn off some energy, so don’t hesitate to get started on double digging and turning over the compost heap.
That being said, remember that some people with dementia will get tired more easily than they used to so it is important to build in some rest time.
