Tor-Na-Dee is shortlisted for national award

Home news

Oct 24, 2017

The team at Tor-na-dee care home in Aberdeen is celebrating after being shortlisted for Best Dementia Garden at the National Dementia Care Awards. 

The home has been recognised for the accolade as part of its commitment to delivering excellence in dementia care and providing residents with meaningful activity to maintain their independence and quality of life.

The awards are held annually and recognise the very best in dementia care across the sector, culminating in an awards ceremony on 9th November 2017. The purpose of the awards is to pay tribute to individuals who have demonstrated outstanding performance within their field of work.

With the support of residents, relatives, local community groups and schoolchildren, the team has come together to create a sensory garden that has become the heart of the outdoor space. It’s packed full of winding non-slip walk ways, calming seating areas and plants chosen for their sensory properties.

The beautiful outside areas also include a greenhouse where residents grow plants, plus a large summerhouse and gazebo which are transformed at Christmas into a space for social gatherings and a Santa’s grotto for residents and visitors to enjoy.

Maureen Barrett, home manager at Tor-Na-Dee, said: “We’re really honoured to have been shortlisted for Best Dementia Garden at the National Dementia Care Awards.

“At Tor-Na-Dee, we all take great pride in our gardens and enjoy them through the seasons. For residents living with dementia, we know the importance of a sensory experience and our garden, complete with its calming sounds, beautiful smells and year round colour, provides the perfect environment. Gardening is a great way for residents to maintain their independence and quality of life, and residents of all abilities are encouraged to join in with the many activities the garden provides –from planting and weeding, to watering and enjoying the wildlife.

“We’re delighted to receive national recognition from the care sector and hopeful that we can win.”