Enliven films

ENLIVEN was a 3-year programme running from March 2021 to February 2024 based at the University of Exeter, involving an expert team from Brunel, Hertfordshire, Manchester Metropolitan, and Bradford Universities, as well as Innovations In Dementia and The Sensory Trust.

Throughout its duration, ENLIVEN worked with small businesses to make the wellbeing benefits of outdoor activity more accessible to older people with cognitive impairment, such as memory problems resulting from dementia or a stroke. The primary focus was to enable individuals to maintain their activity levels, independence, and social connections through increased engagement in outdoor activities. For more information on the project visit: Home > ENLIVEN – University of Exeter (enlivenproject.co.uk)

Through spring and summer 2023 a group of people with early stage dementia, along with their carers, took the tram to Seaton wetlands once a month to spend time exploring the site with the education ranger. From bird watching and pond dipping to art and crafts inspired by their surroundings to outdoor mindfulness the group took part in activities that immersed and engaged them in their surroundings.

After the sessions ended some of those who took part worked with  biggerhouse film to produce 12 poetic films exploring the relationship between dementia and nature. You can watch these poignant films, along with those made by a dementia group from Okehampton by visiting:  https://vimeo.com/showcase/10887320