Dobbies Garden Centre in Livingston will be joining forces with Alzheimer’s Research UK to mark Dementia Action Week, a national campaign that aims to reduce stigma and increase awareness about dementia. The partnership will take place from May 19 to 25 and will focus on the benefits of garden living for brain health.

Benefits of Garden Living for Brain Health

• Physical activity: Gardening can help improve cardiovascular health, boost mood, and reduce stress levels.
• Learning new skills: Gardening can provide a sense of accomplishment and self-confidence.
• Keeping connected with others: Gardening can provide opportunities for social interaction and community building.

May’s “Grow How” event, Love Your Lawn, will take place in the Livingston store on Saturday, May 3 and Wednesday, May 7 at 10:30am and 3:30pm. The event is free to attend and is open to people of all ages and gardening abilities.

What to Expect at the “Grow How” Event

1. The Dobbies’ Green Team will give a demonstration around lawn care, going back to the basics and illustrating the importance of maintenance for a healthy lawn.
2. The team will also share information on Alzheimer’s Research UK’s Think Brain Health campaign, which aims to educate people about the steps they can take to help reduce the risk of dementia.
3. There will be an activity centred around repairing a lawn with grass plugs, giving everyone the chance to have a go.
4. There will also be the chance to ask any questions relating to lawn care.

During the session, Dobbies’ Green Team will share information on how to show your brain some love and help reduce the risk of dementia, highlighting the importance of three simple rules: love your heart, stay sharp and keep connected.

Quote from Nigel Lawton, Dobbies’ Plant Buyer

“We are excited to partner with Alzheimer’s Research UK to raise awareness about the benefits of garden living for brain health. Our Green Team are full of advice and expertise, and we look forward to sharing this with our customers.”
— Nigel Lawton, Dobbies’ Plant Buyer

Quote from Samantha Benham-Hermetz, Executive Director at Alzheimer’s Research UK

“We are proud to be working with Dobbies to raise much-needed awareness of the actions people can take for their brain health, while also raising vital funds for a cure for dementia. Research shows that nearly half of all dementia cases could be prevented by addressing risk factors we can influence.”
— Samantha Benham-Hermetz, Executive Director at Alzheimer’s Research UK

Community Engagement

The garden centre is also inviting local groups, schools and causes who applied to Dobbies Community Gardens along to stores on Saturday, May 3. Dobbies’ Green Team will be announcing the successful group, who will receive a selection of products and tools, alongside gardening advice and volunteer hours.

Donations can be made at the time of booking or in store on the day. To book the free “Grow How” session, visit: www.dobbies.com\events

Getting Involved

For more information about Alzheimer’s Research UK, visit: www.alzheimersresearchuk.org

Don’t miss out on this opportunity to learn about the benefits of garden living for brain health and get involved in a fantastic cause.