Your mother with dementia planting fake flowers in the yard might seem odd, but there’s actually a good explanation for this behavior. Dementia affects the brain in ways that can change how a person thinks and acts. For your mom, planting fake flowers could be her way of connecting with past memories and activities she enjoyed.
Gardening is often a beloved hobby for many people, especially older adults. As dementia progresses, your mother may still have the urge to garden, even if she can’t quite remember how to do it properly. The fake flowers might be easier for her to handle and “plant” compared to real ones.
This activity could also be providing her with a sense of purpose and accomplishment. Even though the flowers aren’t real, the act of planting them might make her feel productive and useful. It’s a way for her to engage with her environment and express herself creatively.
Interestingly, gardening has been shown to have positive effects on mental health and cognitive function. Studies have found that people who garden regularly have a lower risk of developing dementia symptoms[9]. So, in a way, your mother’s desire to “garden” with fake flowers might be her brain’s way of trying to stay active and engaged.
It’s important to remember that for someone with dementia, their perception of reality can be different from ours. To your mother, those fake flowers might seem very real and beautiful. Instead of correcting her or stopping this behavior, it might be more helpful to join in and support her activity. You could even set up a special area in the yard where she can “plant” her fake flowers safely.
This behavior is also a form of reminiscence therapy, which is often used to help people with dementia. By engaging in familiar activities from their past, like gardening, individuals can experience positive emotions and a sense of connection to their personal history.
While it might be tempting to redirect your mother or explain that the flowers aren’t real, it’s often better to go along with her reality. This approach, known as validation therapy, can help reduce anxiety and agitation in people with dementia.
If you’re concerned about safety, you could provide your mother with soft, fabric flowers that won’t cause harm if she falls. You might also consider creating a raised garden bed or container garden that’s easier for her to access and work with.
Remember, your mother’s desire to garden, even with fake flowers, is a positive sign. It shows she still has interests and wants to engage with her environment. By supporting this activity, you’re helping her maintain a sense of normalcy and purpose, which is crucial for people living with dementia.
