With a passion for gardening and plants, Dinah (91) joined us to bring joy, connection and purpose into her week.
Dinah has deteriorating age-related memory loss, and mobility issues due to painful knee problems. Since becoming a widow, she has lost confidence and needed more support to keep doing the things she loves.
Becoming increasingly isolated, her family wanted her to have more opportunities to get outdoors and spend time with others. With only a tiny garden space at home, our Garden Thyme programme gave Dinah access to a welcoming environment and supported activities. As a trained botanist and keen gardener, it was a natural way for Dinah to continue her passions.
Dinah felt happy in the garden; she enjoyed being gently active and took real interest in the planting and seasonal tasks.
It gives me pleasure,
says Dina
Just as importantly, the sessions helped her to spend time with people sharing conversation and a feeling of belonging.
She felt like she had a job and loved the sense of purpose,
her grandson observed
Attending Garden Thyme became the highlight of Dinah’s week, something she looked forward to and could talk about with pride. She grew excited about coming, and we became her happy place.
On Garden Thyme mornings, she would rise bright and early and get herself ready,
recalls Dinah’s oldest daughter Hilary
Dinah’s family saw the positive effects carry through at home, too. As well as supporting Dinah’s happiness and confidence, the impact was felt by her entire family. Knowing Dinah was safe, cared for and happy gave them all valuable respite and reassurance.
Visit our gardens to experience the joy that Dinah found.
For as little as £1 a week, you could be in with the chance of winning up to £25,000 every week!
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