Gardening at Alexander House: Growing Happiness and Connection in Our Dementia Community

At Alexander House Care Home, we believe in creating moments that matter, ones that spark memories, offer comfort and promote well-being. This month, our Dementia Community embraced the delights of summer by getting their hands in the soil and their senses immersed in nature. Residents stepped out into the garden from their dining room and began planting herbs and vegetables in our newly developed raised beds, transforming the area into a vibrant sensory garden.

A Space to Touch, Smell and Grow

From fragrant rosemary and earthy sage to zesty chives and aromatic curry plants, the garden has blossomed into a therapeutic haven. Residents also planted pepper plants, carefully tending to them as they grow under the warm sunshine. This simple but meaningful activity has brought the outdoors to their doorstep, creating a connection to the season, to nature and to fond memories of time spent in their own gardens.

Why Gardening Matters, Especially for Those Living with Dementia

Gardening is more than just a hobby, for many of our residents, it's a part of who they are. Several residents in our Dementia Community were avid gardeners before moving to Alexander House. By offering opportunities to garden, we’re not only honouring their identities, we’re supporting their cognitive, emotional and physical well-being.

Research shows that gardening offers a range of benefits for people living with dementia:

Sensory stimulation: The smell of herbs, the feel of soil and the colours of growing plants provide a rich sensory experience that can help trigger positive memories and emotions.

A sense of purpose: Planting and nurturing something gives residents a clear and rewarding goal, boosting self-esteem and confidence.

Social connection: Gardening can be a communal activity, encouraging conversation, teamwork and laughter.

Gentle physical activity: It helps maintain dexterity and mobility, supporting overall health.

Cognitive engagement: Remembering how to plant, recognising different herbs or simply following the rhythm of seasonal change can help stimulate memory and focus.

Bringing the Outside In

The garden at Alexander House is now a peaceful, engaging space where residents can explore and reconnect with nature. For those living with dementia, familiar routines like gardening can bring a powerful sense of comfort and continuity.

Most importantly, this project has brought joy to the residents of Alexander House. It has created smiles, sparked stories and encouraged residents to share gardening tips from years gone by. It’s another way we support person-centred care, where every individual’s preferences, life stories and abilities are at the heart of what we do.

If you want to discover more about our gardens and home, get in touch and arrange a private tour with one of our friendly team.