Sue Hinds is Head of Innovation, Research and Development at Dementia Adventure, a charity with a vision for a more active and fulfilled life for people living with dementia. Here Sue explains the role of outdoor activities and nature in enabling people living with dementia to live their best and meaningful lives.
In the intricate landscape of dementia care, nature and the great outdoors offer great potential for people with dementia and those who care for them. Dementia Action Week reminds us how important it is to harness the therapeutic benefits of nature so that we can all, including those affected by dementia, lead more fulfilling lives.
The role of nature in cultivating wellbeing
Whether through quiet walks, breezy adventures by the sea or by bringing the outdoors indoors – perhaps through potted plants, the sound of birds through the window or some aromatic herbs – nature has the unique ability to uplift the spirit and rejuvenate the soul.
Dementia Adventure is dedicated to giving people with dementia and their carers the opportunity to reconnect with nature and each other. Through bespoke small group holidays and tailored breaks, we create space for meaningful experiences and the creation of precious family moments. These breaks offer more than relaxation; they are often a lifeline for families in need of a break and a chance to recharge their batteries together.
Engaging positively with people living with dementia
Inclusive communities are the cornerstone of Dementia Adventure’s approach to supporting people with dementia and their carers. For example, by working with organisations such as the National Trust and the Alzheimer’s Society, we have helped to create safe and welcoming environments where everyone feels valued and supported. One of our initiatives is the National Trust’s Damsons project at Peckover House.
The project was born out of a shared commitment to create inclusive spaces for people living with dementia and their carers. With funding from the EU-funded MONUMENT pilot project, we have transformed Reed Barn at Peckover House into a safe and welcoming environment.
Throughout, we received overwhelmingly positive feedback from Damsons participants. One member, Karen, described the welcoming atmosphere and positive effect on her mother’s demeanour. She said, “Mum loves wandering around the garden on the way to the barn, and what’s really lovely is when you walk through the doors, everybody says hello and welcome, and is smiling – that’s what brings mum in.”
Our Gardening Group at the Jubilee allotment site in Great Dunmow is further evidence of our commitment to nature-based activities in the community. The allotment is a real enclave and we pride ourselves on the fact that you often can not tell who is living with dementia and who is a volunteer because we all work together. At each session, up to six volunteers support six people with dementia to work together on the two plots of the allotment.
The group acts as a beacon of community connection and support by actively caring for the allotment by planting, weeding, watering and harvesting. Physical activities are tailored to the individual abilities of the participants. All produce grown on site is shared amongst members to encourage healthy eating habits and provide a platform for meaningful discussion.
Guiding Individuals towards outdoor activities
Social care professionals can play a crucial role in guiding people with dementia and their families to enriching outdoor activities. Although Dementia Adventure does not provide direct social care itself, we champion nature experiences and work with partner organisations to promote access to outdoor activities.
By working with community organisations, social care providers can effectively guide people to dementia-inclusive spaces and outdoor activities. Information sessions and social media platforms can also be used to disseminate details of dementia-welcoming events and outings. In addition, transportation support for people with dementia is essential to ensure they can access nature trails, parks or botanical gardens. By offering personalised recommendations, activity calendars and staff training, social care providers can empower people with dementia to engage with nature in a meaningful way, improving their overall wellbeing and quality of life.
Moreover, with advances in access to technology and the ability to order from around the world, there is an opportunity to connect people with the nature of their past, such as native plants and sounds from different parts of the world. By finding innovative ways to bring nature into the home, even for the most frail people, social care providers can ensure that everyone, regardless of physical ability, can benefit from the therapeutic power of nature.
By recognising the transformative power of nature and fostering inclusive communities, we can open doors for access and inclusion for people living with dementia. Together, we can create a future where people affected by dementia experience independence, connection and fulfilment in the outdoors.
@DementiaAdv
dementiaadventure.org
