Pioneering Cairngorms outdoors dementia centre is blazing a trail
A pioneering outdoor dementia centre near Glenmore has inspired plans for a similar project in Scotland’s capital.
The Alzheimer Scotland Outdoor Dementia Resource Centre at Badaguish is part of the Cairngorms 2030 programme supported by The National Lottery Heritage Fund.
The project offers valuable nature-based activities for those living with dementia while also providing a welcoming space for their carers.
The first of its kind in the UK, it has quickly grown into a thriving and supportive community and provides a lifeline for regular users since its launch in April, last year.
Now there are plans for a new facility in Edinburgh, modelled on the original at Badaguish.
Scotland’s second Outdoor Dementia Resource Centre at Lauriston Castle is due to open next year and will offer a similar programme of therapeutic activities in the hope of replicating the success of the Cairngorms project.
Among the regulars at Badaguish are Rosemary and Peter Evans, from Inverness.
Since Mrs Evans was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s in 2018, her ability to take part in some of her favourite hobbies has become more limited.
But coming along to the centre has meant she and her husband can still enjoy the great outdoors together.
Mr Evans said: “There’s just something about being in nature and breathing in fresh air which makes you feel calm and centred.
“The Outdoor Dementia Resource Centre is a vital resource and the team there are worth their weight in gold.
“There’s a wide range of indoor and outdoor activities on offer, and there’s nothing we haven’t tried - jam making, willow weaving, cycling, gardening … you name it!
“And of course, walking. It’s that simple pleasure we can often take for granted, and one which offers so many mental and physical health benefits.
“I may be Rosemary’s carer but I am her husband too and it’s been good for us as a couple to socialise with others at the centre.
“I also get a chance to talk to people who are carers like me which is a great support.
“These opportunities and activities are vital to helping Rosemary live as well as she can for as long as she can.”
The centre team has put together a winter programme to make sure that even on the darkest, coldest days, participants have access to nature and its many benefits.
The ‘wintering well’ activities include sensory workshops such as candle-making.
To help give a sense of community at a time of year which can feel isolating, participants and carers were encouraged to light their candles at 3.30pm on Saturday - sunset on the winter solstice.
Centre co-ordinator Kenny Wright says the service is always evolving, shaped by the views and needs of regular attendees and their loved ones.
He said: “It’s a continuous process and we’re always trying to respond to the aspirations of our participants which change over time.
“Our programme of events is now much more established and regular which helps participants to plan ahead and set routines.
“We’re now looking at how to capture what we’ve learned here to export it to other areas and extend the reach across Scotland.”
David Clyne, Head of Cairngorms 2030, said: “It’s wonderful to hear about the positive impact the dementia centre is having on people’s lives.
“The fact that this project has inspired plans for a second Outdoor Dementia Resource Centre so soon into our Cairngorms 2030 programme is testament to the work of the team on the ground and a fitting legacy of this pioneering green health initiative.”
Cairngorms 2030 is made possible through funding by The National Lottery Heritage Fund, with thanks to National Lottery Players.
Pictured: Centre Co-ordinator Kenny Wright, left, and Outdoor Community Activities Organiser Andy Miller at the Alzheimer Scotland Outdoor Dementia Resource Centre at Badaguish.