Nature & Dementia

This year's #WorldAlzheimersDay focuses on stigma. This got me thinking what creates and fuels stigma and prejudice and how one way to loosen stigma's hold could be to focus on all that still connects us. People with and without dementia alike may respond to birdsong, to a walk on a farm, to a sunset sky or to stormy weather. Shared experiences could lessen stigma.
Do you find that nature helps you to connect with people who have dementia? Or if you have dementia yourself, do you find time spent in nature allows you to connect with others more easily? Do you like walking with other people, or birdwatching, or other ways of connecting with nature?

While working with non verbal dementia client, at a loss to engage. Bought in some dahlias, rather vibrant in color, a flower that would have been familiar in her earlier years.
As with all dementia activities it’s not what you see as an activity it’s how the client perceives . Remarkably client picked up bloom and proceeded to pluck each petal off. as she plucked, she recited, ‘ he loves me, he loves me not’
Quite remarkable, the staff amazed by her physical engagement and her verbal dialogue. (Her loving husband visiting everyday for years with no verbal communication or sign of recognition)
After all the petals removed, client lapsed back into her Introverted state. No more communication or physical engagement in another activity.

That's a wonderful story and really demonstrates the power of nature! Dahlias are such beautiful flowers too. Thank you for sharing that. Medley also has a new Facebook group now to share ideas and thoughts too in case you are interested the link is https://www.facebook.com/groups/359291215486002