RESEARCH

Effects of Horticultural Therapy on Asian Older Adults: A Randomized Controlled Trial

This study examined the effects of horticultural therapy (HT) on older adults, finding that HT reduced the level of the inflammatory marker IL-6 and improved social connectedness.

Program Types: Therapeutic, Social

Population Groups: Older Adults/Seniors, Mental Health Challenges/Trauma, Chronic/Acute Health Conditions, Caregivers/Healthcare Professionals

Setting or Context: Assisted Living/Long-Term Care Homes, Hospitals/Clinics, Community Gardens, Residential Programs

Health and Wellness Outcomes: Improved Mental Health, Enhanced Emotional Well-being, Improved Cognitive Function, Sensory Stimulation, Improved Physical Health, Increased Social Engagement & Skills, Longevity & Aging Well

Allied Profession Intersections: Recreational Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Physical Therapy, Behavioral Therapy, Nursing

Type of Activity: Sensory Stimulation, Outdoor Gardening, Mindfulness/Visualizations

Evidence Type: Peer-Reviewed Studies, Randomized Controlled Trials, Quantitative Research

Measurement and Evaluation: Metrics for Mental Health, Metrics for Physical Health, Standardized Assessment Tools, Program Effectiveness

Access: Free

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Summary

This randomized controlled trial investigated the effects of horticultural therapy (HT) on 59 older adults in Singapore. Participants were assigned to either an HT intervention group or a waitlist control group. The HT group participated in weekly sessions for three months, followed by monthly sessions for three months, engaging in activities such as indoor gardening, growing vegetables and herbs, and guided walks. Biological (inflammatory markers, hormones) and psychosocial data (cognitive function, mood, social connectedness) were collected at baseline, 3 months, and 6 months.

The results showed a significant reduction in plasma Interleukin-6 levels in the HT group, which may help prevent inflammatory disorders. The waitlist control group showed reductions in plasma cytokines. The HT group also showed a significant improvement in social connectedness. The study suggests that HT may be a valuable intervention for improving the well-being of older adults, particularly in communal gardening settings.

Link

Ng, K. S. T., Sia, A., Ng, M. K. W., Tan, C. T. Y., Chan, H. Y., Tan, C. H., Rawtaer, I., Feng, L., Mahendran, R., Larbi, A., Kua, E. H., & Ho, R. C. M. (2018). Effects of Horticultural Therapy on Asian Older Adults: A Randomized Controlled Trial. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 15(8), 1705.

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