Case Study: Designing Age UK's Dementia Friendly Garden in Tameside
Innovative landscape design to improve the independence and quality of life of older people in Tameside.
Applying principles obtained through the internationally recognised Dementia Services Development Centre at the University of Stirling, our landscape designers created this tailored landscaping solution for older people visiting the Age UK day care centre in Tameside, including those living with dementia.
Originally the outdoor space at Age UK in Tameside was under used and difficult to access.
Our designers understand the unique requirements of people living with dementia, making them best place to redesign this space, in consultation with the client and the site users.
During the design phase they considered design elements such as access, signage, how the garden will be used, sensory planting, seating arrangements and when and where to use, or avoid, the use of strong contrasts in colours between materials.
The design included a circuit path to allow for infinite movement which was made with the same material throughout to enable the users to move about the space with confidence.
The planting scheme was created to be sensory and used species which invite insects, birds and other creatures into the garden.
The garden also encourages participation by the users, with fruits trees, raised beds and a shed for potting in.
The Age UK garden is designed to unlock benefits for both carers and users, reducing some of the anxiety associated with dementia; improving sleep patterns and reducing recovery time after bone damage or other illness.
For more information on our age friendly design please contact Richard Clark, Senior Landscape Architect on:
0161 220 1000