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).
Stand alone devices in the garden include:
- solar powered garden lighting, glow in the dark guidance strips, sensor light
- automatic watering system (set for night-time so person doesn’t accidentally walk through when turns on)
- lockable storage of chemicals and electrical/ hazardous tools
- gate and door alarm
- garbage disposal – some local services may assist
Connected devices outdoors include home automated outdoor lighting and gates.
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.