Cultivating Wellbeing Within Our Local Community
At Dementia Adventure, we are dedicated to enhancing the wellbeing of our local community through engaging initiatives like our gardening group, led by volunteer Debbie Anderson at the Jubilee Allotment site in Great Dunmow, Essex, conveniently located near our headquarters. With her background as our former Head of Training, Research, and Consultancy, Debbie brings a wealth of expertise to this initiative, exemplifying our commitment to changing perceptions of dementia.
Research indicates that spending time outdoors can significantly benefit individuals with dementia, and our two-hour gardening sessions, held every Friday morning (weather permitting), offer a wonderful opportunity for connection and engagement. Gardening not only boosts mood and provides a sense of purpose, but it also fosters social connections with others who share a passion for nature. These sessions stimulate memory, encourage learning, and promote overall brain health by allowing participants to grow fresh produce.
Our gardening group aims to create a supportive environment that fosters joy and connection within the natural world. Importantly, our Jubilee Club is free to all participants, highlighting our strong local ties and our gratitude for the support we receive from the Fowler Smith and Jones Trust. Their contributions play a vital role in enabling us to serve the Essex community and enhance the lives of those affected by dementia.
Every Friday 10am-12pm
January – March:
Dourdan Pavillion, The Causeway, Dunmow, CM6 2AA
April – November:
Jubilee Allotment, Waldgrooms, Great Dunmow, CM6 1DZ
The Gardening Group is generously funded by Great Dunmow Council and Essex Community Foundation.
The benefits of gardening:
- Improves Physical Health: Gardening is a great way to stay active, promoting physical fitness through movement and exercise.
- Enhances Mental Wellbeing: Regular time in nature has been shown to reduce stress and anxiety, leading to improved mood and emotional health.
- Creates a Sense of Purpose: Tending to a garden provides a rewarding sense of accomplishment, offering a positive distraction from daily stresses.
- Encourages Continual Learning: Gardening offers continual opportunities for education and exploration, inspiring individuals to try new techniques and plant varieties.
- Fosters Social Connections: Discussing plants and gardening can spark meaningful conversations, helping to build new relationships and create lasting memories.
