Horticulture therapy to improve care

Bolton Clarke has recognised outstanding gardens from across the group’s Allity residential homes as part of its newly launched gardening competition.

Group Lifestyle Services Manager Catherine Doyle said The Best in Grow Resident Gardening Competition had created a real buzz across the homes. The competition saw 43 homes working to create a fresh and vibrant gardening masterpiece.

Bayside Aged Care home secured the dementia-specific category with its sensory garden, while Claremont Terrace was awarded the general category with a variety of fruit, vegetables and flowers.

“Horticultural therapy is so beneficial for residents and they’ve been able to get involved in lots of different ways, from planning and planting their gardens to weeding, watering and watching their gardens grow,” Doyle said.

“The gardens have also given residents a real sense of accomplishment and will be used for lots of activities into the future.

Claremont Terrace resident Valarie Johnson said the experience was so enjoyable that she didn’t miss a single session to help get the gardens prepared for judging.

“It was a great way to meet and socialise with other residents in our home,” Johnson said.

“It has brought a lot of memories back for me of my gardening days as I did my own landscaping whenever I built a home.

“It has been amazing being in a group of creative, positive and likeminded people and I am now growing radish on my own balcony!” she said.

Doyle said the competition has been a great success and residents are already planning their next project.

Images: Supplied