RESEARCH

Effect of Horticultural Therapy on Wellbeing Among Dementia Day Care Programme Participants: A Mixed-Methods Study (Innovative Practice)

This study demonstrates that horticultural therapy can improve the well-being and engagement of people with dementia through a combination of structured and unstructured activities in a therapeutic garden setting. The participants experienced enhanced well-being, positive emotional expression, and improved social interaction through their involvement in the horticultural therapy program.

Program Types: Therapeutic

Population Groups: Dementia/Traumatic & Acquired Brain Injuries

Setting or Context: Assisted Living/Long-Term Care Homes, Low Care/Independent Long-Term Homes

Health and Wellness Outcomes: Improved Mental Health, Enhanced Emotional Well-being, Increased Sense of Belonging (Reduced Isolation), Improved Cognitive Function, Sensory Stimulation

Allied Profession Intersections: Recreational Therapy, Occupational Therapy

Type of Activity: Sensory Stimulation, Indoor Plant Care

Evidence Type: Peer-Reviewed Studies, Case Studies, Anecdotal Evidence/Testimonials

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

Access: Free

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Summary

This research paper investigates the impact of horticultural therapy on the well-being of participants with dementia in an adult day program. The study was conducted over 10 weeks with 14 participants and aimed to assess whether improved garden design and recreational programming could increase client engagement in horticultural activities, enhancing their well-being. The program combined structured and unstructured activities such as garden tours, sensory activities, planting, and weeding. Data was collected using dementia care mapping, narrative notes, and questionnaires completed by family caregivers.

The results indicated that horticultural therapy significantly enhanced the well-being of the participants. Dementia care mapping showed that participants were in a state of well-being over 75% of the time while engaging in horticultural therapy. Narrative notes revealed the importance of combining structured and unstructured activities, teamwork, garden reminiscence, and positive risk-taking. Caregiver questionnaires indicated that participants frequently talked about their garden club experience with happy and enthusiastic expressions. The study concludes that horticultural therapy is a beneficial non-pharmacological approach to care for people living with dementia, enhancing their engagement and overall well-being.

Link

Hall, J., Mitchell, G., Webber, C., & Johnson, K. (2016). Effect of horticultural therapy on wellbeing among dementia day care programme participants: A mixed-methods study (innovative practice). Dementia, 17(5), 611–620.

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