RESEARCH

“Human Flourishing with Dignity”: A Meta-Ethnography of the Meaning of Gardens for Elderly in Nursing Homes and Residential Care Settings

Gardens in nursing homes foster well-being, dignity, and social connection, offering residents a space for reflection, sensory engagement, and interaction with nature. To maximize these benefits, the study calls for better integration of outdoor gardens into nursing care, education, and policy.

Program Types: Therapeutic

Population Groups: Older Adults/Seniors

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

Health and Wellness Outcomes: Enhanced Emotional Well-being, Improved Stress Management

Allied Profession Intersections: Nursing

Type of Activity: Outdoor Gardening

Evidence Type: Qualitative Research

Measurement and Evaluation: Program Effectiveness

Research Source: Academic Journals

Access: Free

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Summary

The analysis underscores the vital role of gardens in nursing homes, enhancing residents’ well-being, dignity, and social connections. Gardens provide a space for reflection, engagement with nature, and sensory stimulation, contributing to a higher quality of life. However, their integration into nursing care remains limited, often requiring staff assistance for access.

Framed by the metaphor “Human Flourishing with Dignity,” the study highlights gardens as essential for mental and emotional support. Not only does it relate feeling included in the present moment, but also in the past. Often bringing a feeling of “the good old days”. It advocates for better integration of nature-based approaches in nursing education and policy to promote health, reduce isolation, and encourage physical activity.

Link

Magnussen, I.L., Alteren, J., & Bondas, T. (2021). “Human flourishing with dignity”: A meta- ethnography of the meaning of gardens for elderly in nursing homes and residential care settings. Glob Qual Nurs Res., 8, 23333936211035743.

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