Dementia Support Line
Activity ideas for a person with dementia in gardens and using plants and flowers
From the October/November 2015 issue of our magazine, activities involving plants and flowers can be enjoyable and beneficial for a person with dementia, even if they don't have access to a garden.
Activity ideas: Natural benefits
Contact with nature can improve wellbeing, and nurturing plants may give us a better sense of control of our own lives.
If you can access a garden, mid to late autumn activities include cutting back perennials, planting tulips for spring, sweeping paths and gathering leaves. Without a garden, you can sow herbs and flowers in pots, re-potting as they grow.
Remember to take into account which plants are poisonous, irritate the skin or eyes, or have thorns or sharp edges. Some people might need help using sharp tools safely or with strenuous activities.
Pressed flowers may be used to create framed pictures or to decorate objects. To make them, press between sheets of greaseproof or blotting paper and under heavy books, or use a press kit.
More ideas are included in our guide Taking part: activities for people with dementia, currently on sale for £22.50 plus postage via our online shop.
