RESEARCH

Flowers or Leaves? Assessing the Impact of Crape Myrtle Observation on the Physical and Mental Well-being of Senior Citizens

This study examined the effects of watching videos of crape myrtle flowers or leaves on the well-being of 90 senior citizens, measuring physiological and psychological indicators before and after a 15-minute viewing period. The results showed that observing crape myrtle, especially the flowers, significantly improved the physical and mental health of the elderly participants, decreasing blood pressure and heart rate compared to a control group.

Program Types: Therapeutic

Population Groups: Older Adults/Seniors

Setting or Context: Homes/Private Residences

Health and Wellness Outcomes: Improved Mental Health, Enhanced Emotional Well-being, Improved Stress Management, Improved Cognitive Function, Improved Physical Health, Longevity & Aging Well

Allied Profession Intersections: Landscape Design

Type of Activity: Indoor Plant Care, Outdoor Gardening, Mindfulness/Visualizations

Evidence Type: Peer-Reviewed Studies, Randomized Controlled Trials, Quantitative Research

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

Access: Free

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Summary

This study investigated the impact of observing crape myrtle on the physical and mental well-being of senior citizens. Ninety participants aged 60-99 were recruited and divided into three groups: a group watching videos of crape myrtle flowers, a group watching videos of crape myrtle leaves, and a control group watching no video. Physiological parameters (blood pressure, heart rate, blood oxygen saturation, fingertip pulse) and psychological aspects (positive and negative affect schedule scores, smile face scale) were measured before and after the 15-minute observation period.

The results showed that engaging in crape myrtle observation activities, particularly observing the flowers, significantly enhanced the physical and mental well-being of elderly participants compared to the control group. Specifically, physiological indices like blood pressure and heart rate decreased after crape myrtle observation. The study suggests that visual stimulation from the natural environment, especially crape myrtle flowers, can positively influence the health of elderly individuals, offering insights for landscape design aimed at enhancing well-being.

Link

Hao, S., Zhang, D., Wen, Y. et al. (2024). Flowers or leaves? Assessing the impact of crape myrtle observation on the physical and mental well-being of senior citizens. HortTechnology, 34(3), 372- 380.

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