Garden Space for Relaxation and Connection

May 15, 2023

By: Jen Ryan Hickes

Retired physician Dr. Richard Blank volunteers with MAS and shares wisdom from his personal experience as a caregiver with others whose loved ones are living with dementia. He shared his vision for a gardening space to support connection for those living with dementia and caregivers alike. With help from Missoula Aging Services volunteers, that vision is becoming a reality.

Missoula Aging Services has rented two raised beds in the Roots Off Reserve Community Garden, located at 4795 Siren Road, to provide this space for community garden therapy. Volunteers were quick to sign up to lend a hand with the planting and tending of these beds.

Some plants were provided by a generous donation from a local nursery and others were grown by students at Clark Fork and DeSmet elementary schools, making this a true community project. With a variety of herbs, vegetables, and colorful flowers, these beds have been designed and planted to enhance the lives of people living with dementia, as well as provide a relaxing restorative space for all. This summer, the garden will serve as a spot for drop-in gardening, socializing, and nature-based activities for those living with memory loss and caregivers alike.

Special thanks to the University of Montana Geriatric Education Center for their generous support of this project!

MOW Volunteers Randy Phillips, and Terry and Tom Carlson tend the Dementia Friendly Garden.