Maintaining Independence in Old Age: the Importance of Home Gardens and Gardening
I took the photographs myself with the respondents' consent. I was interested in using visual media as an additional method for my data collection and in order to make the thesis visually interesting (planned submission 2008). Respondents were also provided with a disposable camera between April and October 2006 as part of the research method Photovoice, so that they could record and interpret their own meanings and experiences of their gardens. A brief outline of the research findings will help to illuminate my rationale. The garden is a key site for constructing and reconstructing identity over the life course. The findings from the study are being organised for the purposes of the thesis into Past, Present and Future. Older peoples' 'past' garden experiences are mostly derived from the significance of memory and place attachment; an example of this is that the respondents Susan and Ada had both been in their current homes all of their adult lives. The sensory stimulation the garden provides will take people back to fond childhood experiences of nature/gardens and reinforce their identity in the present on both an individual and a social level as collective memories are shared with peers. Plants and flowers will be planted in the garden as a visual reminder of a lost loved one and the memory of why plants were bought or were received as gifts creates a space in which older people can construct and reflect upon their identity.

For many older people the garden as experienced in the 'present' is not only a vital part of their home, which reflects their identity and social status, but it is also a place to retreat and spend time alone in contemplation. Being able to access a natural environment on a daily basis and interact with wildlife is huge part of the appeal of a home garden. Being able to cultivate a garden .and protect plants and animals gives older people enormous sense of satisfaction and well-being. This is physical and psychological and many people talked of the spiritual connection they feel when they are out in their gardens and close to the natural environment.

The garden is also social space in the sense of how it is used and experienced and keen gardeners also find it to be an excellent talking point to socialise with other people. After retirement the garden can become an important site for working and this can lead to reciprocity and the sharing of advice, plants, produce, tour of the garden and photographs with others.