There is evidence that viewing trees, flowers, colours, greenery and seasonal changes can result in positive mood changes. Involvement in gardening such as digging, planting, sweeping, raking, picking flowers and watering can fulfill a need for productivity and sharing and promote an overall sense of wellbeing.
Dementia can affect a person’s ability to independently maintain their garden. An unmaintained garden can indicate that a vulnerable person lives in the home. Common dementia related issues in the garden may include safe outdoor activity (including gardening, craft and relaxation), poor garbage storage and disposal, falls, appearance of well maintained yard, poisoning (plants, chemicals).
Consider these features in a garden which may support independence, safety and leisure:
- Adequate natural or artificial light in the shed area, for age, vision and perception needs
- Garbage disposal – what local services assist?
- Visual access to encourage outdoor activity, without glare
- Automated watering system (set for night-time so person doesn’t accidentally walk through when turns on)
- Lockable storage of chemicals and electrical/ hazardous tools
- Shed floor level surface and free of hazards
- Yard free from rubbish and well maintained
- Pathways / surfaces even
- Non toxic plants and plants that don’t drop leaves, berries, remove water features and sharp spiky plants
- Supportive lighting, eg, sensor lighting, solar powered, glow in the dark
- Outdoor activity – activity benches, shaded area, safe furnishing, raised garden beds
Some of the ideas are simple and inexpensive, whilst others require professional installation and are more costly. For professional advise regarding your circumstances and needs, please contact the Independent Living Centre on 1300 885 886.