The idea
A sensory garden can give access to conduct physical activity and exercise that promotes physical well-being and health. It provides stimulation with colour, smells, touch and sounds of wildlife. This multisensory stimulation and contact with nature can restore the body and promote feelings of calmness, reduce stress and lower blood pressure. Finally, it provides a space for reflection and privacy; reminiscence opportunities to talk and socialise with others. To recognise the importance in prevention and care of the ones affected.
artFix further would like to use the sensory garden as a place for other groups of the communities to come together by providing a free space for events such as Yoga, meditation or artistic workshops (provided corona restrictions allow). These events will enhance the connectiveness of different groups and help groups identify themselves with the local environment and community.
What we'll deliver
- Consult landscape architect and surveyor to receive quote
- Finalise design and construction requirements
- Hire project manager for project period
- Appoint contractors and building/gardening company
- Buy equipment including barrier free toilet
- Install accessible toilet
Why it's a great idea
The garden can provide multiple benefits for people who live with Dementia. These could be physical health benefits through providing a space for exercise, exposure to natural light and outdoor space, opportunity to release tension and anxiety born from being in care and finally it provides a safe secluded space for reflection and privacy.
Through involving younger people in looking after the garden and running workshops, the garden would nurture intergenerational relationships. Ultimately people who live with dementia and carers would feel part of their community, according to the Alzheimer’s Society one third of people who live with dementia do not feel part of their community.
The garden will have tailored workshops but also provide an opportunity to just relax and pop in at any time to plant some seeds, water the plants or simply enjoy a cup of tea and chat further strengthening the community through providing an additional space for open dialogue.
Steps to get it done
- Designing the garden
We are supported by the Royal Borough of Greenwich Dementia Group
