Creating a garden in a care home is about much more than just beautifying the outdoor space. It involves thoughtful design and implementation to ensure the area is both safe and stimulating for residents, especially those who may be living with mobility issues or cognitive impairments. Gardens in care homes are carefully planned to provide therapeutic benefits, encourage physical activity, and offer a sense of tranquility and connection to nature. Here’s an in-depth look at how care homes design their gardens to meet the needs of their residents.
Accessibility is Key
One of the primary considerations when designing a care home garden is accessibility. The goal is to create a space that all residents, regardless of their physical capabilities, can enjoy. Paths are typically made wide and flat enough to accommodate wheelchairs and walkers easily. The surfaces are usually smooth but non-slip to prevent falls, with materials like compacted gravel or paving that are easy to navigate. Additionally, ramps are installed where necessary to ensure that all areas are accessible.
Sensory Planting
Gardens in care homes often focus on sensory experiences to stimulate the senses and evoke memories. Planting schemes are selected not only for their visual beauty but also for their scents, textures, and even tastes. Fragrant plants such as lavender, roses, and herbs like mint and rosemary are popular choices because they can trigger memories and improve mood. Textured plants like lamb’s ear, which has soft, velvety leaves, provide tactile stimulation which can be particularly beneficial for residents with visual impairments.
Safe and Comfortable Seating Areas
Seating is an essential feature in care home gardens, allowing residents to rest and engage with the space at their leisure. Seating areas are strategically placed throughout the garden to provide both sunny spots and shaded areas, accommodating different preferences and needs. These areas are often surrounded by attractive plantings and equipped with comfortable, sturdy furniture that supports easy transfer from wheelchairs.
Raised Beds and Vertical Gardening
Many care homes incorporate raised beds or vertical gardens to facilitate active participation. These allow residents who have difficulty bending down to engage in gardening activities at a comfortable height. This luxury care home in Farnham Common encourages residents to continue their gardening hobby or learn more about gardening while living there. Gardening is a rewarding activity that can improve physical strength, agility, and mental well-being. Residents can plant flowers, herbs, and vegetables, which provides them with a sense of accomplishment and can even contribute to the care home’s kitchen.
Therapeutic Elements
Many care home gardens include features specifically designed for therapeutic benefits. For example, water features can provide soothing background sounds that promote relaxation and reduce stress. Additionally, wildlife elements such as bird feeders and butterfly plants can attract local fauna, adding an educational and entertaining aspect to the garden that residents can enjoy daily.
Safety First
Safety is a paramount concern in any care home garden. The area is regularly inspected for tripping hazards, and toxic plants are strictly avoided. Garden tools are safely stored, and supervision is provided when necessary to ensure that all residents can enjoy the garden safely.
Regular Maintenance
Maintaining a care home garden involves regular upkeep to ensure that the area remains safe, accessible, and enjoyable. This includes routine tasks such as mowing lawns, trimming hedges, weeding, and repairing any wear and tear to paths and furniture. Maintenance staff often engage with residents, offering opportunities for interaction and involvement in the garden’s upkeep to whatever degree possible.
Conclusion
Care home gardens are thoughtfully designed to cater to the physical and psychological needs of elderly residents. Through careful planning and regular maintenance, these gardens provide a safe, accessible, and enriching environment that enhances the quality of life for residents by connecting them with nature, stimulating their senses, and encouraging physical activity.