Color creates moments of joy and contentment. The pull of color is a strong one; when people notice pops of red or orange color outside through a window, their natural inclination is to seek out that color. Getting residents, and their caregivers and visitors, outside amongst these vibrant colors helps to promote healing and a sense of wellbeing.

“Color and smell stimulate … the brain, and even those with little cognitive ability seem able to sense the tranquility and beauty of a garden on a precognitive, affective basis,” said Susan Rodiek and Benyamin Schwarz in their book “Outdoor Environments for People with Dementia.”

When working with people with dementia, it is important to incorporate flowers that may help to trigger fond memories of their younger years. For many older people, roses and hydrangea were the flowers that were in fashion in their youth. Including these bold, beautiful plants, in a garden, can help older adults feel grounded, providing a sense of connection.

When compared to the more classic rose bush that many are familiar with, Knock Out roses are hardier, easier to care for, and thornless, proving to be a popular addition. This variety, first introduced in 2000, blooms every five to six weeks from spring until the first frost of fall.

Thanks to Martha Stewart, hydrangeas are once again easier to find. The queen of do-it-yourselfer mentioned hydrangea a few years ago, creating an explosion of popularity for this classic plant that had since fallen out of favor. Hydrangea blooms from early spring to late autumn, with the color of the blooms affected by the pH of the soil. An acidic soil (pH below 7) will produce blue flowers, while an alkaline soil (pH above 7) produces pink flowers.

The large size and bold color of roses and hydrangea serve as sensory cue reference points to help orient people with partial sight or diminished visual acuity. Including a hanging basket of fuchsia flowers near a doorway would do the same.

Offering a colorful oasis reminiscent of happier times encourages people to engage with nature, promoting physical and emotional health.