Adapting Garden Activities for Overcoming Difficulties of Individuals with Dementia and Physical Limitations

Abstract

Horticultural activities offer numerous benefits to individuals with dementia, despite decreased physical mobility and mental acuity. Awareness of the characteristics and lifestyle associated with dementia is essential for the design of garden activities. Most difficulties encountered during gardening activities are related to mobility, access to the activity areas, ability to use tools or techniques and sensory (visual, olfactory, touch, auditory) impairment. The best garden activities for individuals with dementia are dependent on the person's strength, physical ability, clinical condition, and personal preferences. Well-designed garden activities can reduce participants' frustrations with gardening and can give them a wide range of therapeutic benefits that will increase self-esteem, success, and self-confidence. This article presents strategies for designing accessible gardening activities to overcome difficulties associated with common symptoms experienced by individuals with dementia.