RESEARCH

Comparing the Effectiveness of the Frequency and Duration of the Horticultural Therapy Program on Elderly Women with Mild Cognitive Impairment and Mild Dementia

This research indicates that for elderly women with mild cognitive impairment and mild dementia, a shorter, more frequent horticultural therapy program is more effective for improving cognitive function, while a longer, less frequent program is better for increasing life satisfaction. When planning a horticultural therapy program for mental and psychological rehabilitation, it is more effective to organize and implement the program by setting the duration of intervention to be 3-4 months or longer, even if this reduces the number of sessions per week.

Program Types: Therapeutic

Population Groups: Older Adults/Seniors, Dementia/Traumatic & Acquired Brain Injuries, Neurodevelopmental Differences

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

Allied Profession Intersections: Social Work, Education

Type of Activity: Sensory Stimulation, Indoor Plant Care, Outdoor Gardening

Evidence Type: Meta-Analyses/Systematic Reviews, Observational Research, Quantitative Research

Measurement and Evaluation: Metrics for Mental Health, Patient-Reported Outcomes

Access: Free

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Summary

This study compared how different frequencies and durations of horticultural therapy programs affected elderly women with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and mild dementia. The researchers developed a 15-session program aimed at improving cognitive functions, life satisfaction, and reducing depression. One group participated once a week for 15 weeks (Longer Treatment), while the other participated twice a week for 7.5 weeks (Shorter Treatment). They measured life satisfaction, depression, and cognitive function before and after the program to see which schedule was more effective.

The study found that both groups experienced improved life satisfaction and reduced depression. However, only the Shorter Treatment group showed significant improvements in cognitive function. The Longer Treatment group had a more significant increase in life satisfaction. This suggests that a shorter, more frequent program might be better for boosting cognitive function, while a longer program with fewer sessions per week might be better for improving overall well-being. The researchers suggest that programs for elderly people with MCI or mild dementia should have a minimum duration of 3-4 months, even if the frequency per week is low.

Link

Kim, Y., Jo, HS., Park, CS., & Kang, K. (2020). Comparing the effectiveness of the frequency and duration of the horticultural therapy program on elderly women with mild cognitive impairment and mild dementia. J People Plant Environ., 23, 35-46.

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