Hospital of the Holy Spirit - Aged Care (Est. 1227)

As the largest Aged Care in Hamburg, Germany, the Hospital of the Holy Ghost residential Aged Care lives up to its tag line - a small city for Seniors.

With its own Convenience Store, Civic Square, Hairdressers, Restaurant, Church and a number of Gardens and natural spaces all on site, it is an environment of familiar housing types and domestic atmosphere. Settled amongst forested pockets, it has a welcoming feel.

I particularly visited the Sensory Garden (455m2), which forms the core of the expanding Garden Therapy program here. Nestled in a courtyard that is surrounded by housing of 72 residents living with dementia - spread over three floors of shared accommodation, living in groups of 12.

The garden was built in collaboration with the Garden Therapist, which allowed specialised details such as even footing around raised beds, a central water feature and opportunities to participate any time in watering, to be considered. The garden offers views and natural soundscapes for residents, as well as an easily accessible space for both socialising and respite.

The Garden Therapy program consists of a growing team of a Garden Therapist, 1-2 Assistants and several volunteers, who undertake group activities both outdoors and indoors depending on weather and capabilities. The activities include gardening, but also many hand-crafting skills such as paper flower making, clay work and woodwork. These activities not only cover diverse interests, but also challenge and build on skills, making both the garden and the program a popular part of life here. Thank you so much for the visit!