1. What is Hoppiness Brews?
Hoppiness Brews is an innovative project that combines gardening, brewing and the reminiscence associated to enrich the lives of people living with dementia. We grow hops in care homes and aim to co-produce a beer; connecting people with their memories through the sights, smells, tastes and sounds.
2. How does growing hops benefit people living with dementia?
Gardening is known to have therapeutic benefits, and growing hops offers a sensory experience that helps people with dementia reconnect with past memories. The act of tending to plants, smelling the hops, and observing the growth process can evoke memories of gardening, family, and outdoor experiences that may be meaningful to them.
3. What is the connection between brewing beer and dementia care?
Brewing beer is more than just a process; it is a sensory experience that taps into familiar tastes, smells, and emotions. For people with dementia, these sensory cues can trigger positive memories of socializing, family gatherings, and pub visits. The act of brewing and tasting beer can spark conversations and encourage social engagement within the care home community.
4. How can people with dementia participate in the project?
People living with dementia can participate through specially designed gardening sessions; helping to tend to the hops; smelling different beers and taking part in discussions about brewing. The project is designed to be flexible, offering varying levels of participation depending on the individual’s abilities and interests. We encourage family members and care home staff to join in and support the residents’ involvement.
5. Is the beer brewed specifically for people with dementia?
The beer brewed through Hoppiness Brews is crafted to evoke positive memories, but it is made for general enjoyment. We aim to co-produce a beer that brings people together, stimulates conversation, and helps unlock happy memories for all involved.
6. Can family members and visitors be involved in the project?
Yes! Family members, visitors, and volunteers are encouraged to get involved. We believe that creating an inclusive environment fosters a sense of community, and having loved ones participate in gardening, brewing, and tasting together can be an enriching experience for everyone.
7. How does this project help dementia patients with memory recall?
Through sensory experiences such as the smell of hops or the taste of a freshly brewed beer, Hoppiness Brews taps into long-term memories that might be harder to access. Smells, tastes, and even the act of gardening can serve as triggers, reminding people living with dementia of happy times from their past, and helping to spark conversations and connections.
8. Where are the hops grown and brewed?
The hops are grown in around the care homes taking part, allowing residents to be involved in the process from start to finish. The hops are then hand harvested and brewed with local brewers, creating a deeply meaningful experience for everyone involved.
9. Can the project be introduced to other care homes or communities?
Absolutely! Our goal is to expand Hoppiness Brews to other care homes and communities that would benefit from the positive impact of gardening, brewing, and reminiscence. We welcome partnerships and are eager to share our experiences with others interested in this unique approach.
10. What are the main goals of the Hoppiness Brews project?
Our primary goals are:
- To improve the quality of life for people living with dementia through sensory stimulation and social connection.
- To stimulate memories of past experiences of gardening, beer, and socializing.
- To create a sense of purpose and accomplishment by growing and brewing together.
- To raise funds and awareness for dementia research and dementia-friendly gardening projects.
- To challenge ageism and age-related discrimination by showing that older people still have plenty to contribute!
11. How can I support or get involved with the project?
We welcome any form of support, whether it’s volunteering, donating, or helping to spread the word about Hoppiness Brews. If you’re a care home, community, or individual interested in bringing this initiative to your area, feel free to contact us through our website for more information.
12. Is the beer available for purchase?
At the moment, the beer produced through Hoppiness Brews is primarily for community involvement and internal enjoyment within the care homes. However, we are exploring opportunities to share our beer with the broader community in the future, as we aim to raise awareness about the project and its positive impact.
More questions? Contact [email protected]