DEMENTIA-FRIENDLY PLANTS

Graeme Olds has put together a list of his favourite plants to use in aged-care facilities, which could be integrated in your home garden if you are caring for a loved one affected by dementia. But of course, be guided by your family member, as every person will have some of their own personal favourites.

• Daffodils are a welcome sight in spring, Graeme says. “They are not only a joy to behold, but offer a fragrance that tells of all the garden will offer in the coming months.”

• Dahlias and geraniums offer colour for months.

• Roses are popular for their colour and fragrance. “Generally, we do recommend avoiding plants with thorns or sharp edges, but many people with dementia today would have dedicated an immense amount of time in their younger years to choosing the perfect roses, caring for them and enjoying them in a vase. Finding the perfect spot in the garden would be crucial – somewhere inaccessible yet visible would suit best.”

• Sunflowers are fascinating to watch grow. The flowerheads on tall stalks also attract birdlife, which bring life and song to the outdoor spaces. • Vege gardens are an ideal multisensory experience, with plenty to touch and taste. • Lavender and sage are always popular in gardens around aged-care facilities, Graeme says. They are not only familiar plants for residents, but sage leaves and lavender flowers also contain phytochemicals said to promote relaxation. Lavender is a good alternative to fragrant options such as daphne, which is poisonous and best avoided in a garden used by people with dementia.

• Nasturtiums were as popular in the 1960s and residents enjoy the bright, can’t-miss yellow and orange blooms, seeds that pop open and seeing the raindrops that gather on the leaves. Plus they self-seed easily and reliably, Graeme says. • Wintersweet and rhododendrons with their elegant, fragrant blooms will cheer up any winter’s day.