RESEARCH

Innovations in Intergenerational Programs for Persons Who Are Elderly: The Role of Horticultural Therapy in a Multidisciplinary Approach

This paper highlights a successful intergenerational program using horticultural therapy to improve the well-being of middle-aged and elderly veterans through shared gardening activities, social interaction, and a sense of purpose. Structured horticultural activities, adapted to individual needs and integrated with other therapies, result in positive experiences and a commitment to continued participation.

Program Types: Therapeutic

Population Groups: Older Adults/Seniors, Children/Youth, Military/Veterans, General Population

Setting or Context: Assisted Living/Long-Term Care Homes, Low Care/Independent Long-Term Homes, Community Gardens

Health and Wellness Outcomes: Improved Mental Health, Enhanced Emotional Well-being, Increased Sense of Belonging (Reduced Isolation), Improved Cognitive Function, Increased Social Engagement & Skills, Longevity & Aging Well

Allied Profession Intersections: Recreational Therapy

Type of Activity: Indoor Plant Care, Outdoor Gardening, Nature-Based Arts & Crafts, Greenhouse/Nursery Production, Environmental Education

Evidence Type: Anecdotal Evidence/Testimonials

Measurement and Evaluation: Metrics for Mental Health, Patient-Reported Outcomes

Research Source: Academic Journals

Access: Paid

Print Form

Summary

This article describes an intergenerational program at the Colmery-O’Neil Veterans Affairs Medical Center, focusing on how horticultural therapy is used to bring together middle-aged and elderly veterans. The program’s core is using gardening and plant-related activities as a therapeutic tool. Younger veterans assist older nursing home residents with tasks like planting, arranging flowers, and caring for plants. This provides sensory stimulation, encourages social interaction, and gives participants a sense of purpose. By working together with plants, veterans find opportunities for self-esteem and positive, enjoyable experiences.

The horticultural therapy component is carefully structured, with activities designed and implemented by trained professionals. The program uses hands-on experiences like creating miniature beach scenes with sand and tropical plants to engage participants. Activities are adapted to individual needs, with those able to focus longer and having more physical endurance taking on more complex tasks. The therapists collaborate with other staff, including nurses and music therapists, to integrate horticulture into broader events like themed parties. Evaluations show that the veterans enjoy the horticultural activities and commit to continued involvement, demonstrating the effectiveness of this approach in promoting well-being.

Link

Abbott, G., Cochran, V., & Clair, A. A. (1997). Innovations in Intergenerational Programs for Persons Who Are Elderly: The Role of Horticultural Therapy in a Multidisciplinary Approach. Activities, Adaptation & Aging, 22(1–2), 27–37.

Other Recommended Research

‘The nourishing soil of the soul’: The role of horticultural therapy in promoting well-being in community-dwelling people with dementia

Gardening can help people with dementia feel more active, connected, and less lonely by improving their physical and mental well-being. The article highlights the need for more accessible gardening programs in the community to support social engagement and a better quality of life.

“Connecting people and the earth”: the occupational experience of people with different capabilities participating in an inclusive horticultural social enterprise

This thesis examines how a gardening-based social enterprise helps people of all abilities by providing meaningful work, social connections, and a sense of belonging. While it highlights the benefits of inclusion and community participation, it also points out challenges like funding and governance that need to be addressed for long-term success.

RESEARCH

Innovations in Intergenerational Programs for Persons Who Are Elderly: The Role of Horticultural Therapy in a Multidisciplinary Approach

Summary

Link

Other Recommended Research

Microgreens

Mulching

Soup Garden

‘Into the Wild’: A meta-synthesis of talking therapy in natural outdoor spaces

‘The nourishing soil of the soul’: The role of horticultural therapy in promoting well-being in community-dwelling people with dementia

“Connecting people and the earth”: the occupational experience of people with different capabilities participating in an inclusive horticultural social enterprise