Conference Agenda

Purpose:

Informal caregivers of people living with dementia often report low levels of physical activity, which is due in part to the high levels of physical, psychological, and social burden associated with their caregiving role. Lower levels of physical activity in caregivers contribute to the increased risk of many conditions, including cardiovascular disease, social isolation, and depression. One of the difficulties in increasing physical activity levels in caregivers is the time required for caring, with physical activity usually a very low priority for caregivers. One solution could be to involve both the caregiver and the person they care for in the physical activity. This can be challenging in traditional physical activity settings, however gardening is a potential solution, especially as it can be considered exercise by stealth.

Project or policy description:

The University of Bedfordshire, in partnership with the Central East Integrated Care Board , developed a wellbeing garden specifically for people living with dementia and their caregivers. The garden was co-designed with a diverse group of stakeholders, including people living with dementia and their caregivers, voluntary organisations, community leaders, and health and social care professionals. The garden design that resulted from this process includes raised beds, vertical planting, sensory plants, and wide accessible paths.

Conclusions:

Community wellbeing gardens can provide a transformative therapeutic space where people living with dementia and their caregivers can share meaningful activity incorporating social interaction and physical activity that can provide both physical and mental health benefits. for people with dementia and their caregivers.