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We know social connection, participating in meaningful activity and being outdoors are all vital for mental wellbeing. But all these things can get more challenging as people age or if they are living with disability.
DIGnity Supported Community Gardening aims to improve wellbeing and quality of life by providing therapeutic and supported community gardening sessions for people with physical or mental disability.
This year, with a Step Forward grant, DIGnity ran 10 therapeutic horticulture sessions in two community gardens in South East Tasmania, Nubeena and Dodges Ferry.
Participants from local aged care services and the general community came to garden under the guidance of a professional support team including an art therapist, occupational therapist and mental health counsellor. They also enjoyed other activities like preparing and sharing group lunches and art.
A range of people in the community joined in, including people living with dementia and their carers, people with disabilities and/or limited mobility, people with chronic ill health, poor mental health or substance use disorders, and some young people and children.
They say they enjoyed their time in the garden and the social interaction, which made them feel welcome and included.
One participant says: ‘My mental health worker turns up at my door and we come down here and there are lots of people and the fire is going and we cook pizzas.
‘It’s nice to come here in the sun, have a good feed and fill what would normally be a long, boring day. Plus the vitamin D is good for my depression. I really enjoy it.’