Woodland Wellbeing: a pilot for people with dementia. Issue 3 (20th July 2017)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Gibson, Elanor; Ramsden, Nicola; Tomlinson, Rachel; Jones, Charlie
• Is Part Of: Working with older people. Volume 21:Issue 3(2017)
• Page Start: 178
• Page End: 185
• Publication Date: 2017-07-20
• Subjects: Wellbeing -- Partnership -- Dementia -- Connection -- Nature -- Woodland; Community health services for older people -- Great Britain -- Periodicals; 362.6094105
• DOI: 10.1108/WWOP-05-2017-0012
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1366-3666

Abstract

Abstract : Purpose: The purpose of this paper is to understand whether a woodland-based intervention might offer something helpful and engaging for people affected by dementia. In total, 18 people came to Woodland Wellbeing groups over summer and autumn in 2016. Design/methodology/approach: The authors made observations during the groups, kept some notes and conducted some interviews around three months after people had participated in Woodland Wellbeing. Findings: Feedback from participants indicated themes around connection with nature and to one another; the joy in new learning and activities; and the inspirational impact of feeling part of nature. Originality/value: This paper adds to the growing literature on natural approaches in supporting the wellbeing of people affected by dementia, and highlights the value of partnership working.