Environmental Suggestions
Pathways – circular pathways can minimise the forced choice of a dead end, or a pathway leading to an area that is unsafe.
Shade – awnings, shade sails, automated pergolas and umbrellas can reduce exposure to UV rays and the rain while encouraging exposure to fresh air activities.
Furnishings – choose garden furniture with strong arms and backrests to provide stability and support when standing up or sitting down. A comfortable, firm cushion to sit on reduces the risk of pressure from sitting on hard surfaces for extended periods of time.
Raised Gardens or Activity Bench - waist height with tools and pot plants to promote activity.
A Garden Shed – can be a symbolic cue and can be used to provide a sense of connection and prompt memory recall. As time progresses it may be necessary to remove some of the more complex tools and items, leaving some of the simpler tools, or providing items that can be safely sorted or rummaged through. Ensure safe storage of tools and chemicals, including petrol.
Plants – consider removing:
- Toxic plants or plants with sap that may irritate the eyes or skin;
- Water features that are easily accessible and pose a risk;
- Sharp or spiky plants.
Fences – for persons who may be at risk of unsafe wandering, opportunities to climb over fences should be eliminated. Paling fences where the palings are facing inwards with the support frame on the outside of the fence can remove opportunities for a person to gain a foothold and climb over the fence and out of the garden. Pool fencing may also be suitable and provide peace of mind for the carer. Fences that remove the visual cue to leave the garden, such as brush or Colorbond fences, have been identified as effective.
Windows that look outside and on to the garden can encourage and motivate someone to go outside.
A No Junk Mail sticker on the letterbox will reduce the amount of mail to be managed.