RESEARCH

Horticultural Therapy Reduces Biomarkers of Immunosenescence and Inflammaging in Community-Dwelling Older Adults: A Feasibility Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial

After 6 months, participants in the gardening group had significantly higher levels of naive CD8+ T cells and lower levels of CTLA4+ TEMRA cells, both markers of a stronger immune system​.Additionally, they experienced a notable drop in IL-6 levels, which was strongly linked to the improved immune profile and lower signs of chronic inflammation​.
Print Form

Summary

This study tested whether gardening and nature-based activities—known as horticultural therapy (HT)—could improve immune health in older adults. Researchers recruited 59 people aged 61–77 in Singapore and randomly assigned them to either a six-month HT program or a waitlist control group. The program included indoor and outdoor gardening, park visits, and nature education. Blood samples were taken at the start, 3 months, and 6 months to measure immune cell changes and levels of IL-6, a chemical linked to inflammation and aging.

The group that participated in gardening activities showed improvements in their immune system, including an increase in healthy “naive” T cells and a decrease in exhausted T cells that are linked to chronic disease and aging. IL-6 levels also dropped, suggesting less inflammation in the body. These changes were not seen in the control group. The study highlights how simple nature-based activities may help older adults stay healthier and reduce the risk of age-related illnesses.

Link

Chua, M., Tan, J., Lee, S. et al. (2021). Horticultural therapy reduces biomarkers of immunosenescence and inflammaging in community-dwelling older adults: A feasibility pilot randomized controlled trial. J Gerontol A Biol Sci Med Sci., 76(2), 307-317

 

Other Recommended Research

Native and Invasive Plants

Participants learn about native and invasive plants through demonstration and reflection in this multi-part open-ended activity.

Gratitude Leaf Garland

A mindful activity hunting for leaves to create a leaf garland promoting gratitude.

Ice Mobiles

Participants create frozen beauty with winter hardy natural elements.

‘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.

‘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.

“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.

Report

Contains abusive or derogatory content
Contains mature or sensitive content
Contains misleading or false information
Contains spam, fake content or potential malware
Harassment or bullying behavior

Block Member?

Please confirm you want to block this member.

You will no longer be able to:

  • See blocked member's posts
  • Mention this member in posts
  • Invite this member to groups
  • Message this member
  • Add this member as a connection

Please note: This action will also remove this member from your connections and send a report to the site admin. Please allow a few minutes for this process to complete.

Report

You have already reported this .