RESEARCH

Horticulture Therapy and Seniors: A Manual for Recreational Therapists and Master Gardeners

The study showed that adults with dementia can successfully engage in planting, cooking, and craft activities using plant materials, experiencing comparable cognitive, psychosocial, and physical benefits across all three types. These horticultural therapy activities offer valuable opportunities for socialization, skill rehabilitation, and enhanced well-being for individuals with dementia.

Program Types: Therapeutic

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

Setting or Context: Community Gardens

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

Type of Activity: Indoor Plant Care, Outdoor Gardening, Meal/Diet-Based Activities, Nature-Based Arts & Crafts

Evidence Type: Peer-Reviewed Studies, Observational Research, Quantitative Research

Measurement and Evaluation: Metrics for Mental Health, Metrics for Physical Health, Standardized Assessment Tools, Program Effectiveness

Access: Free

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Summary

This study explores how horticultural therapy (HT) – using gardening and plant-based activities – affects older adults with dementia. Researchers looked at whether different types of HT activities, like planting, cooking with plants, and crafts with plant materials, had varying effects on the participants. The goal was to understand how well individuals with dementia could engage in these activities and what benefits they experienced, such as improved social interaction, cognitive function, physical abilities, and psychological well-being.

The research found that older adults with dementia could successfully participate in all three types of HT activities, often requiring only minimal assistance. Participants experienced similar benefits across the different activities, including increased social interaction, concentration, and the completion of tasks. The study suggests that HT is a valuable tool for engaging individuals with dementia, providing a range of benefits that can improve their overall quality of life.

Link

Gigliotti, C., Jarrott, S. E., Gaines, B., Cook, C., Pecora, P., Predny, M., & Relf, D. (2004). HORTICULTURE THERAPY AND SENIORS: A MANUAL FOR RECREATIONAL THERAPISTS AND MASTER GARDENERS. Acta Horticulturae, 639, 151–158.

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