RESEARCH

Horticultural Therapy for Adults

NYU Langone’s horticultural therapy programs have successfully helped patients feel more empowered and confident. The programs have provided valuable therapeutic benefits and are highly regarded, especially for dementia care.

Program Types: Therapeutic

Population Groups: Older Adults/Seniors, Dementia/Traumatic & Acquired Brain Injuries, Mental Health Challenges/Trauma

Setting or Context: Hospitals/Clinics, Rehabilitation Centers

Health and Wellness Outcomes: Enhanced Emotional Well-being, Greater Sense of Purpose, Improved Cognitive Function, Increased Social Engagement & Skills, Increased Self-Efficacy

Allied Profession Intersections: Recreational Therapy, Nursing

Type of Activity: Indoor Plant Care, Outdoor Gardening, Nature-Based Arts & Crafts, Plant Propagation

Evidence Type: Anecdotal Evidence/Testimonials

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

Access: Free

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Summary

NYU Langone’s Rusk Rehabilitation offers various horticultural therapy programs for adults, focusing on helping individuals improve their physical, cognitive, social, and emotional functioning through activities that involve working with plants. These programs, which began in the mid-1970s, provide opportunities for people to gain a sense of personal accomplishment and independence by engaging in gardening tasks. Specific programs are available for different groups, including those with aphasia, dementia, and epilepsy, and therapeutic interactions with resident rabbits are also integrated into the activities at the Orthopedic Hospital.

Participants have reported feeling more confident, empowered, and serene after participating in these horticultural therapy groups. These activities are designed not only to be enjoyable but also to help patients develop new skills and self-esteem. The program for those living with dementia has even received recognition, with the facilitator being awarded “Dementia Care Provider of the Year” in 2012 by the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America.

Link

NYU Langone Health. (2022). Horticultural therapy for adults

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RESEARCH

Horticultural Therapy for Adults

Summary

Link

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