RESEARCH

Effectiveness of Horticultural Therapy on Physical Functioning and Psychological Health Outcomes for Older Adults: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Horticultural therapy significantly improved upper body flexibility, aerobic endurance, emotional well-being, social functioning, and quality of life in older adults compared to control groups. These findings suggest that HT is a safe and promising nonpharmacological approach for enhancing the physical and psychological health of older adults.
Program Types: Therapeutic
Population Groups: Older Adults/Seniors
Evidence Type: Meta-Analyses/Systematic Reviews
Measurement and Evaluation: Metrics for Mental Health, Metrics for Physical Health
Access: Paid
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Summary

This research paper aimed to find out if horticultural therapy (HT) could help older adults improve their physical abilities and psychological well-being. The researchers conducted a systematic review of existing studies that used randomized controlled trials (RCTs) to compare the effects of HT with a control group (like usual care or social activities) in people aged 60 and over. They looked at studies that measured things like muscle strength, flexibility, balance, how well people could perform daily tasks, as well as their mood, anxiety levels, social connections, and overall quality of life. The researchers searched multiple databases for relevant studies published in English or Chinese up to June 2021 and ended up including ten studies with a total of 884 participants.

The review of these studies found that horticultural therapy showed potential benefits for older adults in several areas. Specifically, it was found to significantly improve upper body flexibility and aerobic endurance. Additionally, HT was more effective in promoting emotional well-being, a sense of social connection, and overall quality of life among older adults. While the overall effect on general physical functioning wasn’t statistically significant, the direction of the findings suggested a positive influence of HT. The attendance in HT sessions was generally good, and no negative side effects were reported in the studies.

Link

Lin, Y., Lin, R., Liu, W., & Wu, W. (2022). Effectiveness of horticultural therapy on physical functioning and psychological health outcomes for older adults: A systematic review and meta‐analysis. Journal of Clinical Nursing, 31(15-16), 2087-2099.

 

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