RESEARCH

A Horticultural Therapy Program Focused on Succulent Cultivation for the Vocational Rehabilitation Training of Individuals with Intellectual Disabilities

This study demonstrates that a horticultural therapy program focused on succulent cultivation can significantly improve hand function, emotional behavior, and social skills in individuals with intellectual disabilities, suggesting it’s an effective approach for vocational rehabilitation. The program’s success highlights the potential of using structured, hands-on gardening activities in a real work environment to enhance skills and promote well-being.

Program Types: Therapeutic, Vocational

Population Groups: Neurodevelopmental Differences

Setting or Context: Farms

Health and Wellness Outcomes: Enhanced Emotional Well-being, Increased Social Engagement & Skills

Allied Profession Intersections: Social Work

Type of Activity: Outdoor Gardening

Evidence Type: Qualitative Research

Measurement and Evaluation: Program Effectiveness

Research Source: Academic Journals

Access: Free

Print Form

Summary

This study explored a horticultural therapy (HT) program using succulent cultivation to help individuals with intellectual disabilities gain vocational skills. Twenty-eight participants from a welfare center took part in planting and maintaining succulents, due to their low effort characteristics for gardening. The program taught skills like making mixed soils, taking cuttings, transplanting, and watering. Researchers assessed hand function, emotional behavior, and social skills before and after the program.

The study found significant improvements in all three areas. Participants showed better grip strength, pinch force, and hand dexterity, along with more positive emotional behavior and improved social skills. The authors suggest that the repetitive, manageable tasks involved in succulent cultivation, combined with the real-world farm setting, contributed to these positive outcomes. The program provided a sense of accomplishment, reduced stress, and fostered social interaction, making it a promising approach to vocational rehabilitation for this population.

Link

Joy, Y. S., Lee, A-Young., & Park, S.-A. (2020). A horticultural therapy program focused on succulent cultivation for the vocational rehabilitation training of individuals with intellectual disabilities. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 17(4), 1303.

Other Recommended Research

‘The nourishing soil of the soul’: The role of horticultural therapy in promoting well-being in community-dwelling people with dementia

Gardening can help people with dementia feel more active, connected, and less lonely by improving their physical and mental well-being. The article highlights the need for more accessible gardening programs in the community to support social engagement and a better quality of life.

‘Into the Wild’: A meta-synthesis of talking therapy in natural outdoor spaces

This Meta-synthesis highlights the benefits of holding therapy sessions in nature, which can reduce stress, improve mood, and enhance emotional well-being. While outdoor therapy offers unique advantages, such as greater openness and connection with nature, it also requires careful consideration of client suitability and professional training.

“Connecting people and the earth”: the occupational experience of people with different capabilities participating in an inclusive horticultural social enterprise

This thesis examines how a gardening-based social enterprise helps people of all abilities by providing meaningful work, social connections, and a sense of belonging. While it highlights the benefits of inclusion and community participation, it also points out challenges like funding and governance that need to be addressed for long-term success.