Effects of Horticultural Therapy: Perspectives of Frail and Pre‐Frail Older Nursing Home Residents

The research involved 22 frail or pre-frail nursing home residents who participated in an 8-week horticultural therapy program and were later interviewed about their experiences. Findings revealed that participants found the therapy enjoyable and meaningful, with many appreciating the sensory engagement and the sense of purpose it provided in their daily routine. Several participants reported feeling happier and more positive, while others noted that gardening helped them pass the time and reduced boredom in the nursing home environment.

Additionally, the program facilitated social interactions, allowing residents to make new friends and engage in conversations while working together on gardening tasks. However, the study also noted that staff engagement outside therapy sessions was minimal, suggesting that greater integration of horticultural therapy into daily care routines could enhance its benefits. The findings highlight the potential of gardening as a simple yet effective intervention to support emotional and social well-being among frail older adults in residential care​

Lo, S.K.L., Lam, W.Y.Y., Kwan, R.Y.C. et al. (2019). Effects of horticultural therapy: Perspectives of frail and pre-frail older nursing home residents. Nurs Open., 6(3), 1230-1236.