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Can nature-based activities impact quality of life for individuals with dementia and their caregivers?
Gillian Fallon
New York Memory Center
Brooklyn, NY - United States
Background
Individuals with Alzheimer’s and other dementia may experience mood and behavioral changes including depression, stress, anxiety, and loneliness. Community programs are a new approach to reducing these mental health challenges and quality of life for those living with dementia as well as their caregivers. Studies have shown that nature and art-based activities are a cost-effective way of improving mood symptoms and promoting brain health for individuals with dementia. However, this presents a challenge to larger cities with less access to green space and limited outdoor arts activities.
Research Plan
Dr. Fallon and colleagues will create a dementia-friendly nature and art program called the “Nature Walks Program” in New York City. In partnership with the New York Memory Center and other local organizations, the researchers will develop a program in which individuals with dementia and their caregivers can engage in a series of nature walks with art activities in Prospect Park over a 12-month period. Further, the team will conduct interviews with the program participants to understand the challenges and benefits of engaging in a nature art walk program. Lastly, the researchers will curate an exhibition of the participants’ art from the Nature Walks Program for the community.
Impact
If successful, the findings from this study may highlight how nature and arts community programs could improve quality of life for individuals with dementia and their caregivers.
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