Creating a Sensory Garden for Residents: Benefits and Tips

Introduction:

Nature possesses an undeniable power to rejuvenate, heal, and inspire. This is particularly evident in the concept of a sensory garden—a dedicated space that stimulates all five senses. For residents in adult family homes (AFH), especially those with cognitive impairments or sensory deficiencies, these gardens serve as sanctuaries that offer therapeutic and leisurely benefits. Let's delve into the wonders of sensory gardens and how to craft one effectively.

1. Understanding the Benefits of a Sensory Garden:

Cognitive Stimulation: Sensory gardens engage the mind. For residents with Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia, navigating through a sensory-rich environment can awaken memories, enhance cognitive function, and encourage engagement with the present moment.

Emotional Well-being: Engaging with nature, whether it’s feeling the texture of leaves or listening to the trickling of water, can help alleviate feelings of depression, anxiety, and stress.

Physical Health: These gardens encourage mobility and fine motor skill exercises. Walking on different terrains or engaging with various plants can enhance balance, strength, and dexterity.

Social Interaction: Gardens are communal spaces that foster social connections. Residents can share experiences, participate in guided tours, or simply enjoy the space together.

2. Elements to Incorporate in a Sensory Garden:

Sight: Incorporate a diverse range of plants with different colors, sizes, and shapes. Seasonal plants ensure the garden remains vibrant throughout the year. Consider adding visually stimulating elements like wind spinners or bird feeders.

Touch: Include plants with varied textures—velvety lamb’s ear, jagged ferns, or smooth succulents. Different pathways, such as gravel, sand, and wood, can also provide tactile stimulation.

Hearing: Introduce soft sounds with wind chimes, water features, or rustling plants like bamboo. Encouraging wildlife, like birds or insects, can add natural melodies to the garden.

Smell: Fragrant plants like lavender, rosemary, and jasmine can provide calming and invigorating scents. Consider residents' preferences and any possible allergies when selecting plants.

Taste: Edible plants, such as herbs (mint, basil), vegetables, and fruits can be both tasty and therapeutic. Ensure all plants are safe for consumption and free from harmful pesticides.

3. Designing with Accessibility in Mind:

Raised Beds and Planters: These make it easier for residents in wheelchairs or those with mobility issues to engage without strain.

Wide, Stable Pathways: This ensures that those with walkers, canes, or wheelchairs can navigate the garden effortlessly.

Shaded Seating Areas: Comfortable benches under pergolas or trees offer rest spots and encourage prolonged enjoyment of the garden.

4. Safety First:

Non-Toxic Plants: Ensure that all plants, especially those within reach, are non-toxic. Some plants can be harmful when ingested or may cause skin irritations.

Secure Water Features: If incorporating ponds or fountains, ensure they are safely designed to prevent accidents.

Regular Maintenance: A well-maintained garden minimizes risks. Regularly check for trip hazards, overgrown paths, or any harmful insects.

5. Engaging Residents in the Garden's Upkeep:

Gardening Activities: Residents can partake in planting, watering, or pruning. These activities not only offer physical benefits but also instill a sense of purpose and accomplishment.

Educational Sessions: Organize sessions where residents can learn about various plants, their benefits, and care.

Conclusion:

Sensory gardens are more than just an aesthetic addition to an AFH setting. They are havens of therapeutic value, enriching the lives of residents by stimulating their senses, fostering social connections, and providing a touch of nature's serenity.

Crafting a sensory garden is a testament to holistic care—an embodiment of the belief that well-being thrives when we engage not just the mind and body, but also the soul. In the hustle and bustle of modern caregiving, it is such sanctuaries that remind us of life's simple, sensory pleasures.

References:

Sensory Gardens for the Elderly - https://www.griswoldhomecare.com/blog/2020/may/sensory-gardens-for-the-elderly/#:~:text=A%20sensory%20garden%20plant%20list,soups%2C%20and%20other%20menu%20items

THE NURTURING BENEFITS OF A SENSORY GARDEN FOR SENIORS - https://www.claridgecourt.com/blog/sensory-garden-benefits/

HOW TO CREATE A SENSORY GARDEN FOR SOMEONE WITH DEMENTIA - https://lottie.org/dementia-support/sensory-gardens/

The Benefits of a Sensory Garden - https://frontiermgmt.com/blog/the-benefits-of-a-sensory-garden/

Sensory and dementia gardens - https://nhsforest.org/green-your-site/sensory-and-dementia-gardens/

Sensory gardens – design guide - https://www.sensorytrust.org.uk/resources/guidance/sensory-gardens-design-guide

What Is A Dementia Garden? - https://seniorsafetyadvice.com/what-is-a-dementia-garden/

Dementia Sensory Garden provides joy and purpose for patients - https://www.thecommongood.org.au/news/dementia-sensory-garden/

Effectiveness of Therapeutic Gardens for People with Dementia: A Systematic Review - https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8469939/

What Is the Evidence to Support the Use of Therapeutic Gardens for the Elderly? - https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3372556/

Create a sensory garden - https://www.rhs.org.uk/get-involved/community-gardening/resources/sensory-garden