Understanding participatory arts among persons living with dementia: A case study of the Garden Trolley program
Funmi AKINDEJOYE

Date and Time

Wednesday, November 11, 2026

Theme / Track

Arts, design, innovation and technology

Presentation Format

Poster Presentation
Dementia is a progressive condition that profoundly impacts on the lives of people affected and their families. Currently, without a known cure, the focus of dementia care is on maintaining and promoting optimum quality of life. Evidence suggests that connecting with nature improves the quality of life of people living with dementia, and that nature-based art activities can bolster nature connection. Little is known about the role of art activities in fostering nature connection, however improved understanding will help caregivers and care staff provide effective, valuable support for people living with dementia. This study seeks to understand how participatory art in green spaces influences connection to nature among people living with dementia, through a critical evaluation of a garden and art program (“garden trolley”) at the Roy Fagan Centre, Lenah Valley, Tasmania. Our method utilises a qualitative phenomenological case study approach framed by a constructivist paradigm. Qualitative data were obtained through dementia-inclusive methods of participant observation, in-depth interviews, and self-reflexive journaling. Data analysis utilises inductive, reflexive thematic analysis techniques. In this paper, we present the preliminary findings from our analysis in the form of a narrative description. Early findings suggest that participatory art influences connection to nature through increased sensory stimulation opportunities, quest for novelty, relational art approach and practical sustainability strategies. We found that caregiver and care staff views may influence how art engagements are implemented, and we identify barriers and facilitators to participation. Our findings will enhance understanding and application of art engagement to foster nature connection in dementia-related psychosocial support and care.

Keywords

Dementia, Innovation, Meaningful Engagement, Non-Pharmacological Interventions, Painting / Sculpture / Fine Arts

Authors

Azam Bazooband, University of Tasmania
Leigh Tesch, University of Tasmania
Duncan Sinclair, University of Tasmania
Bec Stevens, Inscape Tasmania, Tasmania Australia
Pauline Marsh, University of Tasmania