An appeal has been launched to create a dementia friendly garden at the Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital.
Staff who work in Older People’s Medicine have begun fundraising for the N&N Hospitals Charity appeal to convert a courtyard between two wards into a garden for patients, carers and visitors.
The proposed garden is between Elsing and Dunston Wards at NNUH, which care for high numbers of people living with dementia.
Staff are looking to raise £100,000 for the project to carry out groundworks and widen doors to enable patients in wheelchairs and hospital beds to enjoy the garden.
They aim to create raised flower beds and walkways to provide a safe area where patients can walk outside and sit with their relatives and carers.
Sharon Wrath, Older People’s Medicine Matron, said:
“Some of our patients can be on our in-patient wards for an extended period of time and can get frustrated if they are stuck inside.
“There are many health benefits for patients who are living with dementia if they have access to a garden. Getting outside and active is great at avoiding deconditioning and getting some natural light helps improve sleep quality.
“Elsing and Dunston wards are both older people’s wards and the garden, which is currently an unused space, would create a safe space for patients to go for a walk and meet with their loved-ones and pets.”
Staff have been carrying out cake sales in the hospital and are planning further fundraising events.
Julie Cooper, Head of Charity at the N&N Hospitals Charity, said: “We are delighted to support this appeal to make sure patients with dementia and their families or carers can experience the very best care, in the very best environment.
“A dementia friendly garden will be a peaceful outdoor space that can be safely and securely accessed by patients and their families.”
People can find out more about the appeal at the NNUH Dementia Fayre, which will be held in the East Atrium and Benjamin Gooch Lecture Theatre on Monday 20 May between 10am and 3pm.
People can support the appeal by donating to a Just Giving page https://www.justgiving.com/campaign/dementiacomfort
For more information about the N&N Hospitals Charity and to support the work they do, contact [email protected]
