RESEARCH

Developing a Sensory Area for Visually Impaired Person to Impart Horticultural Therapy

This study created a sensory garden area to provide horticultural therapy for visually impaired students, focusing on tactile, olfactory, and aural stimulation. Ten students from a school for the visually impaired interacted with the garden, and feedback from questionnaires, and observations indicated that the sensory area was engaging and beneficial.

Program Types: Therapeutic

Population Groups: Children/Youth, Physical Disabilities

Setting or Context: Schools/Educational Settings, Public/Botanical Gardens

Health and Wellness Outcomes: Improved Mental Health, Sensory Stimulation, Increased Social Engagement & Skills

Allied Profession Intersections: Recreational Therapy

Type of Activity: Sensory Stimulation, Outdoor Gardening

Evidence Type: Case Studies, Observational Research, Qualitative Research

Measurement and Evaluation: Patient-Reported Outcomes, Program Effectiveness

Access: Free

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Summary

This study focused on developing a sensory area within a horticultural therapy (HT) garden to benefit visually impaired individuals. Researchers randomly selected ten students, aged 10-20, from a school for the visually impaired and observed their interactions within the sensory garden. The garden design incorporated elements catering to smell (aromatic plants), sound (wind chimes, rustling plants), touch (varied textures like soft leaves and rough bark), taste (herbs, vegetables, fruits), and sight (vibrant flowers) for those with partial vision.

The study used questionnaires and interviews to gather feedback on the practicality and acceptability of the sensory area. Observations were also conducted to assess the children’s responses. Results indicated that the sensory area, designed to stimulate non-visual senses, was engaging and beneficial for the visually impaired students, offering them a unique way to interact with and experience nature. The study highlighted the importance of considering tactile, olfactory, and aural elements when designing accessible environments for visually impaired individuals.

Link

Jasmin, A.B., Sathyan, A.R., & Beela, G.K. (2023). Developing a sensory area for visually impaired person to impart horticultural therapy. IJSA, 3(2), 16-21

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