This creative act engages the senses of sight, touch, and smell, providing a sense of purpose and collaborative achievement. It transforms your shared space with the beauty you made together, focusing on ability and shared joy.

This design shows the simplicity of creating a "mini-Ikebana" arrangment of flowers - an activity which may be enjoyed TOGETHER by a person living with dementia and the care partner.

How to do it:

  • Gather 2-3 stems of flowers, greenery, or even interesting branches.
  • Use a simple vase, jar, or cup.
  • Work side-by-side to arrange them. Talk about colors, shapes, and scents.

Place your finished creation where you can both admire it.

This design shows the simplicity of creating a "mini-Ikebana" arrangment of flowers - an activity which may be enjoyed TOGETHER by a person living with dementia and the care partner.

Pro tip:

  • You don’t need special flowers. A walk in the garden or a glance at the grocery store’s floral section is all it takes.

Comfort note:

  • If handling stems is difficult, you can be the “hands,” following their verbal or gestured guidance: “Put the red one higher.”

Novelty Journaling:

  • “Log your collaboration: Which part did they enjoy most—choosing, touching, or placing? How did creating something non-essential change the dynamic?”

This design shows the simplicity of creating a "mini-Ikebana" arrangment of flowers - an activity which may be enjoyed TOGETHER by a person living with dementia and the care partner.

Example moment:

  • “Dad directed the whole arrangement. ‘The green behind the pink… yes. Now turn it to the light.’ We felt like a team.”

Caregiver note:

  • This is a pressure-free project. There’s no “right” way, which makes it a relaxing, connective activity for both of you.

This design shows the simplicity of creating a "mini-Ikebana" arrangment of flowers - an activity which may be enjoyed TOGETHER by a person living with dementia and the care partner.

Directly inspired by the “Raise the Garden” initiative recently featured by Reimagining Dementia Coalition. The initiative uses Ikebana to bring “surprise, joy, and wonder” to care homes. This indicates that the desire to create and appreciate beauty is ageless and stageless.

For later stages, simplify:

  • Offer one beautiful flower to hold or enjoy together, focusing on the sensory gift.

This design shows the simplicity of creating a "mini-Ikebana" arrangment of flowers - an activity which may be enjoyed TOGETHER by a person living with dementia and the care partner.

 

Blog Author:

Zulekha ("Zuley") is a brilliant content writer who demonstrates empathy and compassion in storytelling.

Zulekha Ali (“Zuley”) is a freelance writer with a commitment to delivering informative and impactful content to enrich readers’ understanding and empower them to make informed decisions.

Blog Co-Author:

Susan Troyer, MS, BA, is author and curator of ABeautifulVoice.org.

Member: