How Gardening Is Transforming Dementia Care   

• Gardening may seem like a modest pastime, but a growing body of research suggests it could be one of the keys to a longer, healthier, and happier life. That evidence is reshaping dementia care, as countries increasingly turn to “care farms” and nature-based prescriptions to keep patients engaged, active, and socially connected. Marianne Rogstad, a retired Norwegian grandmother, spent decades working as a hotel clerk in Switzerland, constantly engaged with people and languages. After returning home, however, she was diagnosed with dementia and became increasingly isolated. That changed when she joined Impulssenter, a small farm outside Oslo where people with dementia garden, care for animals, and work alongside others. Impulssenter is part of Norway’s national dementia care plan, launched in 2015, which includes government-supported “care farms.” Known locally as Inn pa tunet, or “into the yard,” the program aims to keep people active and socially engaged through meaningful work in natural settings. “Nature prescriptions can increase physical activity and social connection while reducing stress,” said Dr. Melissa Lem, a Vancouver-based physician and researcher. These, in turn, positively affect blood pressure, blood sugar control, and weight, reducing the risk of diseases that can lead to dementia. “We all know that more physical activity improves mental and physical health, but gardening supercharges those benefits,” Lem says. Research supports her view. A landmark University of Edinburgh study found that people who gardened showed greater lifetime improvements in cognitive ability. Other studies have linked regular gardening to a lower risk of dementia, improved attention, and reduced reliance on medication. Scientists say gardening stimulates memory, planning, and problem-solving while boosting proteins that support neuron growth and cognitive function. Nature itself also plays a role. “Nature provides soft fascination that reduces fatigue and irritability,” Lem said, pointing to evidence that natural settings restore focus and ease stress. For people already living with dementia, the effects can be especially potent. Care farm managers say gardening improves mood, communication, and independence. “People love it because they can see the results of their work,” said Henriette Bringsjord, who helps run Impulssenter. Rogstad now spends several days a week tending plants and animals. “It’s nice to be out here in nature,” she said. “It’s much better than sitting at home.” Yesel Kang Copy Editor teen/1769997713/1613367750