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Edinburgh is a wonderful city at this time of year, and people from all over the world pay a visit to enjoy the likes of Hogmany, the festive atmosphere and generally just enjoy the history, that looks that little bit more special as the nights set in and the snow falls.
It’s a great trip, or even day out for many, even those with neurological disabilities such as dementia, with there many dementia-friendly things to do in the city.
So, if you’re taking a loved one out of a residential care home for a special treat, wish to just getaway from the house with your family or for any other reason and you’re looking for some dementia friendly ideas in Edinburgh, here are five you should consider…
Discover the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh
The Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh is a beautiful, peaceful spot for a winter outing. With carefully landscaped gardens, glasshouses, and a wide selection of plants and trees, it offers a calm environment where people with dementia can enjoy sensory experiences through the sights, sounds, and scents of nature. Winter often reveals unique seasonal plants and provides a quieter time to visit, making it less overwhelming than peak season. The Garden offers dementia-friendly tours and has accessible pathways, benches, and quiet areas to rest, making it an ideal spot for a relaxed outing with plenty of natural beauty.
Experience Edinburgh’s Christmas Market with a Dementia-Friendly Touch
Edinburgh’s Christmas Market is a popular winter attraction featuring stalls, festive food, crafts, and holiday lights. Early in the day, before the crowds arrive, the market can be a wonderful outing for people with dementia. Consider visiting during “quiet hours” when many areas of the market lower music levels and dim flashing lights, creating a calmer, sensory-friendly environment. Caregivers and family members can enjoy the festive sights with their loved ones, sampling treats, and browsing displays at a relaxed pace. Familiar holiday music, pleasant scents from mulled wine and roasting nuts, and colourful decorations offer a warm, seasonal atmosphere.
Explore the National Museum of Scotland
The National Museum of Scotland, located on Chambers Street, provides a variety of exhibitions that engage people of all ages. The museum has introduced “relaxed openings” specifically for visitors with dementia, where spaces are quieter, and staff are trained to assist visitors with cognitive impairments. The museum’s displays include objects that stimulate conversation and curiosity, such as artefacts from Scottish history, interactive science exhibits, and even dinosaur skeletons. There are dedicated quiet spaces for resting, and wheelchairs are available to make the experience comfortable for all.
Take a Tranquil Walk in Holyrood Park and Visit Holyrood Palace
Holyrood Park, with its stunning views and natural beauty, is a peaceful setting for a winter stroll. People with dementia often benefit from gentle physical activity and familiar surroundings, and Holyrood Park offers both. Pathways are accessible, and there are benches along the routes, perfect for resting and enjoying the surroundings. After a walk, consider visiting the nearby Holyrood Palace, which occasionally hosts dementia-friendly tours that give a glimpse into the royal history and stunning interiors of the palace. Staff are attentive and can provide a relaxed tour experience with a focus on engaging those with cognitive impairments.
Join a Dementia-Friendly Film Screening at the Filmhouse
The Edinburgh Filmhouse runs dementia-friendly film screenings, providing an inclusive cinema experience tailored for individuals with dementia and their companions. During these screenings, lights are slightly dimmed, sound levels are adjusted to be comfortable, and attendees are welcome to move around or make noise as needed. These screenings often feature classic films and musicals that may evoke positive memories, making the experience both enjoyable and familiar. The staff are trained to accommodate people with dementia, creating a warm, accepting environment where everyone can relax and enjoy the film.