As our population ages, dementia continues to present growing challenges for healthcare systems worldwide. While traditional care approaches are essential, there is emerging research pointing to an often overlooked ally: trees and green spaces. How can trees and green spaces in dementia care make a difference and why should healthcare professionals consider incorporating them into their care strategies?
Dementia Prevention Through Green Spaces
Recent studies have revealed an interesting connection between tree canopy cover and dementia risk. Communities with greater tree canopy show lower rates of dementia onset among residents compared to areas with fewer mature trees. This protective effect appears to be particularly strong with tree canopy cover, offering more protection than open grassland areas. There are multiple reasons behind this:
- trees help filter air pollution
- trees create spaces that encourage physical activity
- trees foster environments where social connections naturally develop
What’s especially noteworthy is how areas with substantial tree canopy seem to create environments for outdoor leisure and social interaction. These findings highlight the importance of urban planning that prioritises tree preservation and planting, especially in areas where our aging population resides. Healthcare sites can play a key part in this.
Therapeutic Benefits for Those Living with Dementia
For individuals already living with dementia, green spaces offer remarkable therapeutic potential. Natural environments provide rich sensory experiences that can trigger positive memories and improve emotional wellbeing. The sound of rustling leaves, the feel of bark, the sight of seasonal changes – all these elements create a stimulating yet calming environment that can improve mood.
Woodland activities have shown particular promise in dementia care. When guided by trained rangers, activities like bird box building, willow weaving and woodland cooking not only improve spatial awareness but also provide opportunities for meaningful engagement. These activities help maintain physical abilities and create natural situations for social interaction and peer support.
Whilst tree planting itself can be too demanding for many patients with dementia, there are other ways they can contribute. Our ranger based at Aintree Hospital and Broadgreen Hospital in Liverpool has included patients with dementia in tree-based activities through gathering and planting seeds and even growing oak trees from acorns.
Understanding the Benefits of Trees and Green Spaces in Dementia Care
The positive impact of green spaces on people living with dementia works in several key ways. Engaging in nature-based activities provides a sense of purpose and accomplishment. Whether it’s identifying different tree species or participating in gardening activities, these experiences empower individuals and allow them to maintain a degree of independence.
Importantly, natural environments offer opportunities for positive risk-taking in a supported context. This might mean exploring a new woodland trail or trying a new outdoor activity. Such experiences can help people reconnect with their past experiences and reinforce their sense of identity – a crucial factor in dementia care. A mention should also be made of current work being done with virtual reality systems that recreate different green spaces allowing those who might not be able to leave the ward or their home to receive some of the benefits of being in nature.
Practical Steps for Care Professionals
As dementia care professionals, there are several ways to incorporate these benefits into your practice. Start by advocating for greater access to green spaces in care facilities and communities. Look for opportunities to include nature-based activities in care plans, whether through regular garden visits, organised woodland walks or structured outdoor programmes.
Consider collaborating with local organisations and trained rangers to develop nature-based programmes. While some might worry about risk, evidence shows that the benefits of outdoor engagement far outweigh the potential concerns when properly managed. The key is to challenge risk-averse attitudes while ensuring appropriate support is in place. Although not directly related to dementia care, the Centre for Sustainable Healthcare’s Green Walking in Mental Health Recovery project offers many useful lessons on how to run outdoor sessions safely with vulnerable adults.
The integration of woodland activities aligns with the 8 Pillars Model of Community Support, enhancing therapeutic interventions, community connections and support for carers. When delivered by knowledgeable rangers, these programmes can provide structured, meaningful activities that benefit both those living with dementia and their caregivers.
Moving Forward
Dementia care professionals have a unique opportunity to champion the use of green spaces in their work. The evidence clearly shows that trees and natural environments can play a vital role in both preventing dementia and supporting those living with the condition. By incorporating these elements into care strategies, we can enhance the quality of life for patients while potentially helping to reduce dementia risk in our communities.
The time has come to recognise trees and green spaces as essential elements of holistic dementia care. Whether you’re working in a care facility, community setting or hospital, consider how you might integrate nature-based activities into your care approach. The benefits for patients could be transformative.
Further reading/sources
Forests as places of mental well-being for people with dementia
Green spaces, dementia and a meaningful life in the community: A mixed studies review