RESEARCH
Effects of Horticulture Therapy on Engagement and Affect
Summary
This study looked at how horticultural therapy (HT)—therapeutic gardening activities—impacts older adults with dementia living in long-term care facilities. The researchers compared residents’ behaviors and emotions during HT sessions with their behavior during traditional indoor activities. They wanted to see if gardening could help participants feel more engaged and show more positive emotions. Trained staff carefully observed and recorded the level of participation, interest, and emotional expressions such as smiling, laughing, or signs of boredom.
The results showed that participants were more engaged and expressed more positive feelings during horticultural therapy than during other regular activities. They interacted more with the plants, the environment, and each other, showing signs of enjoyment and alertness. This suggests that gardening can be a powerful way to support emotional well-being and increase activity in people with dementia. The study supports using horticultural therapy as a meaningful and enjoyable option in elder care settings.
