RESEARCH

Vitamin “G”arden: A Qualitative Study Exploring Perception/s of Horticultural Therapy on a Palliative Care Ward

This qualitative study explored the effects of horticultural therapy (HT) on patients and staff in a palliative care ward through 20 semi-structured interviews. The analysis revealed four main themes: well-being, variation of clinical routine, creation, and building relationships.

Program Types: Therapeutic

Population Groups: Older Adults/Seniors, Chronic/Acute Health Conditions

Setting or Context: Hospitals/Clinics

Health and Wellness Outcomes: Improved Mental Health, Enhanced Emotional Well-being, Increased Sense of Belonging (Reduced Isolation), Improved Stress Management

Allied Profession Intersections: Social Work, Nursing

Type of Activity: Sensory Stimulation, Indoor Plant Care, Nature-Based Arts & Crafts

Evidence Type: Qualitative Research

Measurement and Evaluation: Program Effectiveness

Access: Free

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Summary

This qualitative study explored the effects of horticultural therapy (HT) on patients and staff in a palliative care ward. The research involved 20 semi-structured interviews with 15 advanced cancer patients who participated in HT sessions and 5 palliative care team members. Interviews were analyzed using thematic analysis with NVivo 10 software.

The HT sessions took place in the palliative care ward and were conducted by a horticultural therapist. Activities included making flower arrangements, decorating jars, creating bookmarks from dried flowers, and other plant-based crafts. Out of 66 consecutive patients, 42 (64%) participated in at least one HT session, with 23 (55%) completing two sessions and 9 (21%) completing three. The analysis revealed four main themes: well-being, variation of clinical routine, creation, and building relationships. Patients reported that HT improved their daily routine, provided relaxation, distracted from symptoms, and evoked positive memories. Both patients and staff viewed HT as a beneficial and novel intervention that enriched the clinical environment.

Link

Masel, E.K., Trinczek, H., Adamidis, F. et al. (2018). Vitamin “G”arden: A qualitative study exploring perception/s of horticultural therapy on a palliative care ward. Support Care Cancer, 26(6), 1799-1805.

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