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Rose Garden to Instigate Trips Down Memory Lane

on Thursday, September 10, 2020

Dozens of scented roses, which are currently being planted at not-for-profit aged care home Mercy Place Mont Clare, are all part of a new sensory experience aimed at enriching the lives of seniors living with dementia or Alzheimer’s by creating a peaceful place of their own.

The rose garden is being installed on the rooftop garden at the Claremont-based home by staff and residents, and will provide a new therapeutic experience for residents living with short term memory loss.

Mark Flores, Acting Service Manager at Mercy Place Mont Clare, says the garden will provide an enriching opportunity for seniors to discuss their thoughts and memories, both with staff, fellow residents and family members.

“We’re incredibly pleased with how the new rose garden is taking shape,” he says. “Spending time in nature has been found to improve attention, relaxation and self-esteem among seniors, while using senses like smell, touch and sight can help trigger previously forgotten memories.

“Our new rose garden will also give residents the opportunity to explore their surroundings in their own time, and provide an outlet for self-expression, as well as helping with movement and coordination, which are all important factors as we get older.

“We also know that smell and touch sensations actually promote concentration and alertness, so the garden should be a very beneficial and relaxing addition for our residents living at Mont Clare.”

Find out more about Mercy Health.

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