April 2023 saw the official opening of the UK’s first Outdoor Dementia Resource Centre in Badaguish, Aviemore and since then the Centre has welcomed hundreds of people who are living with dementia, their families, and carers.
Set within the spectacular Cairngorms National Park, this pioneering project received development phase funding as part of the Cairngorms 2030 programme, supported by The National Lottery Heritage Fund. Earlier this year it was confirmed that funding would continue through to 2028 for the delivery phase of the project. Since its launch, this unique Alzheimer Scotland Centre has enabled people to enjoy the many benefits of ‘green health’ opportunities, which although are important for everyone, are especially advantageous for people who are living with dementia.
Nestled within a wonderful outdoor space, the Centre, owned by Speyside Trust, has quickly become a bustling hub for a wide range of nature-inspired pastimes such as walking, cycling, gardening, art, and willow weaving. In the 18 months to February of this year, more than 700 people had already benefited from over 150 different groups and activities on offer. The Centre offers the chance for people to spend time in the great outdoors, increasing their physical and mental wellbeing in many ways. It’s a social experience too, giving people the opportunity to connect with friends and family in a relaxed and easy environment.
Not all activities take place out in the open though, which is handy during our long Scottish winters! The team has created a schedule of events that aren’t weatherdependent – allowing people to enjoy the Centre all year round, but also offering the chance to come along to outreach sessions delivered in local community centres. Innovative indoor activities such as Cognitive Stimulation Therapy, a nature themed ‘Bringing the Outdoors In’ programme delivered in partnership with Highland Wildlife Park, and even Gaelic language learning has kept the team busy during the colder months. Centre Co-ordinator Kenny Wright said,
Since opening, the Centre has also received 75 enquiries from people looking to find out more about our services – coming from as far afield as Germany and the United States. This is testament to the positive impact being felt by local people who are affected by dementia – as one participant, John, says, “This is a wonderful, restful place”. Looking ahead to the summer months, staff at the Centre will continue with a packed schedule of activities, ranging from cycling sessions, nature education, basket-making and outdoor music therapy. Anyone living with dementia, their families and carers are welcome to participate and can self-refer, making access a quick and easy process.
Centre Co-ordinator Kenny Wright said,
“I am delighted that funding has been secured until at least 2028. This will have a profound impact on people who are living with dementia, and their families. Badaguish is a thriving Centre, where people can access a wide range of nature-based therapeutics and try out new, interesting activities. During a recent cycling session, one participant told me, “this has changed my life – I can ride a bike again!” I think that sums up the success of the project.”
You can learn more about the Centre’s programme of green health activities and how to get involved here.