Dementia resident, Linda (75), transforms her life through gardening and upcycling projects
and on Freeview 262 or Freely 565
Linda moved to Oakview Care Home in 2023, and initially found the transition hard as did her loving partner, Julie. Due to Linda's dementia diagnosis, group activities became difficult for her to enjoy. However, after staff recognised her love for gardening, they encouraged her to spend more time outdoors, supporting Linda to replant flower beds and work on small upcycling projects to help her stay engaged and fulfilled.
"Linda has lived such a rich and adventurous life," said her partner, Julie. "She’s travelled the world and even used to ride a motorcycle. The outdoors has always been her passion - whether it was rearing chickens, growing vegetables or gardening.
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Hide Ad“I’m incredibly grateful to the staff at Oakview Care Home for nurturing this part of her. Knowing that she’s well cared for, happy and safe has allowed me to return to my work as a nurse. Now, I can truly enjoy time with Lin, whether we’re going on day trips or working in the garden. I feel like I’ve gotten my life back - and so has she."


Since spending time in the garden at Oakview Care Home, Linda has replanted the rough area of the garden with beautiful flowers and created stunning hanging baskets, as well as repainting old benches and the garden fence. Next, Linda has her sights set on a greenhouse to grow her own vegetables.
Commenting on the improvements Linda has made, Oakview’s Care Home manager, Pal Grewal, said: "Gardening is a wonderful activity for our residents, offering them a deep sense of purpose and accomplishment as they nurture plants and watch them thrive.
“Linda, in particular, feels a great sense of pride when others recognise the effort she puts into the garden. Being outdoors not only keeps her physically active but also helps her form shared experiences with fellow residents who enjoy the space too. It stimulates her senses and brings back memories - both of which are essential for managing dementia. We couldn't be prouder of Linda and everything she has achieved."
Linda continues to spend time in the garden and thinks of herself as “The Beeches Gardener” which is the name of the unit she lives in at Oakview Care Home.
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