How seasonal change can stimulate the senses
When the seasons change, it often has a way of making us notice the world around us. The crunch of leaves beneath our feet, the changing colours in the garden, and even the return of cooler mornings all awaken something different for our senses.
For older people, these everyday experiences can create fresh opportunities for engagement and connection. The NHS recommends sensory activities involving sight, hearing, touch, taste, and smell, particularly for people living with dementia. We love helping our residents make the most of these simple seasonal experiences, and here’s how…
Seeing the seasons change
Autumn certainly gives us plenty to look at. Leaves gradually turn from green to golden yellow, orange, and red. Our lovely nine-acre gardens take on a different character, whether residents are enjoying it from the warmth of our conservatory, a bedroom window, or whilst sipping tea on a garden seat.
Spending time outside, watching the birds, or simply noticing what has changed in the garden can be an activity in itself. The Alzheimer’s Society has talked about the way nature can stimulate the senses through sights such as changing leaves and wildlife, as well as sounds and textures, and we couldn’t agree more. Even when indoors, autumn colours can also inspire creative activities, seasonal decorations, or a look through photographs from previous years.
The scents that take us somewhere
Few things are quite as evocative as a familiar smell. The scent of herbs from the garden, damp earth after rain, or something delicious baking in Chef John’s kitchen can all spark a reaction.
For some people, a particular smell may bring back memories of a place, person, or time in their life. The Alzheimer’s Society describes scent as a powerful tool for reminiscence, particularly when the smell has a personal connection – such as a favourite food, perfume, or familiar place.
That might mean the smell of a favourite cake leading to a story about family baking, or the scent of herbs in the garden reminding someone of their own garden at home. Our Lifestyle Lead, Lizzie, is often inspired to introduce a new activity when a resident shares a memory which they enjoy recalling and would like to recreate.
Sounds, songs, and stories
Autumn has its own soundtrack, too: birdsong, rain against the windows, leaves underfoot. Music can be particularly meaningful. A familiar song may remind someone of a favourite dance, a holiday, or a particular period of their life, creating an more opportunities to share memories and stories. The NHS recommends using music, photographs, and favourite objects as part of reminiscence activities. Sometimes one familiar song is enough to start a conversation that makes someone’s day and creates a sense of connection.
Getting hands-on with autumn
Sensory experiences don’t have to be complicated. Gardening, flower arranging, baking, arts and crafts or simply handling natural objects can all provide opportunities to explore different textures.
And activities don’t have to be about achieving a finished product. Someone might enjoy feeling the texture of a leaf, kneading dough, or touching wool even if they don’t want or are unable to complete the whole activity. Our approach is always person-centred and tailored to individual residents.
Autumn at our care home
Perhaps the best thing about sensory stimulation is that it doesn’t always need to be a specially planned activity. It can be woven naturally into everyday life.
For us and our residents, that might mean enjoying time in our garden, getting involved with seasonal cooking and creative activities, watching for Kentish deer, listening to favourite music, or simply sitting together and noticing the changing world outside – like our bird feeders outside the dining room windows. We’ve had many birds visit, including a delightful Robin.
These moments can open the door to reminiscence. A photograph, familiar smell, favourite song, or taste can prompt stories about childhood, family, work, holidays and traditions. NHS guidance notes that reminiscence and life-story work can support mood and wellbeing, while helping people focus on their experiences, skills and achievements.
Autumn gives us plenty to see, hear, smell, touch, and taste. We see these little seasonal moments as opportunities to enjoy the present, connect with one another, and celebrate the memories that make each person who they are.
