At The Beeches, we believe that every season brings its own opportunities to enhance the wellbeing of those in our care – and summer is no exception. With longer days, gentle warmth and vibrant natural beauty, the summer months offer unique chances to connect residents living with dementia to the world around them in simple, meaningful ways.
Living with dementia can affect how a person experiences their environment. However, many individuals find comfort and stimulation in nature. Thoughtfully designed outdoor experiences can support memory, mood and quality of life, particularly when approached with care and understanding.
The Power of Nature in Dementia Care
Spending time in nature has well-documented benefits for people living with dementia. Exposure to fresh air, greenery, sunlight and natural sounds can:
- Improve mood and reduce feelings of anxiety or agitation
- Provide gentle sensory stimulation, which can soothe or engage the brain
- Promote better sleep and appetite
- Encourage movement and activity in a natural, unforced way
At The Beeches, we incorporate outdoor time into the everyday life of our home. Whether it’s a brief walk through the garden or a longer afternoon spent under a sun umbrella with a cold drink, we recognise that nature can play a vital role in supporting emotional and cognitive wellbeing.
Safe and Supportive Outdoor Activities
One of our priorities during the summer months is to ensure that outdoor time is not only enjoyable, but safe and accessible for all residents. Our gardens are designed with dementia-friendly features that support independent exploration where possible, as well as staff-led engagement for those who need more guidance.
Some of the outdoor activities our team facilitates include:
- Gentle walks along secure, non-slip paths surrounded by greenery
- Tending to raised garden beds, with herbs, flowers, or seasonal vegetables
- Sitting areas with shade, where residents can rest, socialise, or simply observe nature
- Outdoor refreshments, such as tea, lemonade, or light snacks
- Listening to birdsong or soft music, which can evoke pleasant memories
These small interactions with the natural environment are not just recreational—they can also support memory recall, reduce agitation and bring a calming rhythm to the day.
Designing a Dementia-Friendly Outdoor Space
Every aspect of our outdoor environment is designed with purpose. Key considerations include:
- Clear visual cues to help residents orient themselves and feel confident moving through the space
- Shaded seating and sheltered areas to protect from direct sun and reduce overheating
- Surfaces that are easy to walk on, minimising the risk of slips or confusion
- Calm and uncluttered landscaping, with familiar flowers and scents
We also take precautions to protect residents from the risks of sun exposure, such as ensuring everyone has access to sunhats, sunscreen and water.
Creating Moments of Connection
Summer also allows for more relaxed, enjoyable visits with family and friends. We encourage loved ones to join us in the garden for conversations, shared meals or simply spending time together. These informal moments often feel less pressured and more familiar than traditional indoor visits and can be deeply meaningful for residents.
Even when verbal communication becomes limited, the simple act of sitting side by side outdoors can offer a sense of presence and emotional connection.
Supporting Individual Needs
It’s important to remember that each person’s experience of dementia is unique. While some residents may enjoy longer periods in the garden or group activities, others may prefer shorter, quieter outdoor experiences. Our team is trained to recognise signs of discomfort or overstimulation and to adjust plans accordingly.
At The Beeches, we adopt a person-centred approach to care. This means getting to know each resident’s preferences, history and rhythms, so we can create a summer routine that is both familiar and fulfilling.
Looking Ahead
As we move through the warmer months, we remain committed to making the most of what this season has to offer. Whether it’s the smell of lavender on the breeze, the joy of a familiar summer song playing nearby or the quiet pleasure of sipping tea in the sunshine, these experiences can have a profound and lasting impact.
The Beeches is more than just a place to live – it’s a community where every season is embraced with purpose and care. This summer, we’re proud to offer thoughtful, nature-based experiences that support the dignity, comfort and joy of all our residents living with dementia.