Why do people with dementia benefit from therapeutic gardening for sensory engagement?
People with dementia often find therapeutic gardening to be incredibly beneficial, particularly when it comes to sensory engagement. This form of therapy involves using gardens and gardening activities to stimulate the senses and improve overall well-being. Here’s why it’s so effective:
Firstly, gardening is a multisensory experience that engages all five senses: sight, sound, touch, taste, and smell. For individuals with dementia, this can be especially powerful. For example, the vibrant colors of flowers and plants stimulate the sense of sight, while the sounds of birds chirping or water flowing create a soothing auditory experience. The tactile sensation of touching different textures like soil, leaves, or flowers can be very grounding. Even the taste of fresh herbs or the smell of blooming flowers can evoke memories and emotions.
Therapeutic gardens are designed to maximize these sensory experiences. They often include a variety of plants with different scents, textures, and colors, as well as water features or birdhouses to enhance the auditory experience. This sensory stimulation can help reduce agitation and stress, which are common challenges for people with dementia.
Moreover, gardening activities can help improve cognitive function and memory. Tasks like planting, watering, and pruning require problem-solving and memory recall, which can help stimulate cognitive abilities. Additionally, the physical activity involved in gardening can improve mobility and reduce the risk of falls.
Social interaction is another significant benefit of therapeutic gardening. Many programs involve group activities, which encourage social engagement and interaction among participants. This can lead to increased verbal communication and a sense of community, which are vital for emotional well-being.
In dementia care homes, the introduction of therapeutic gardens has been shown to increase family visits and improve the overall atmosphere. Family members report greater enjoyment during visits, which can lead to more meaningful interactions with residents. This increased social interaction can have positive effects on both the residents and their families.
Overall, therapeutic gardening offers a holistic approach to supporting people with dementia. By engaging the senses, improving cognitive function, promoting physical activity, and fostering social interaction, it provides a unique and effective way to enhance quality of life.
