RESEARCH

Long-Term Active and Passive Horticultural Therapy Intervention for Elderly Patients with Moderate Dementia and AI Analysis of Medical Records and Care Documents

This study explored the impact of horticultural therapy on a dementia patient in an elderly care facility during the COVID-19 pandemic, using active and passive techniques like cultivation and aromatherapy. Results show that these interventions may help slow cognitive decline and maintain the level of care needed.

Program Types: Therapeutic

Population Groups: Older Adults/Seniors, Dementia/Traumatic & Acquired Brain Injuries

Setting or Context: Healthcare Centre

Health and Wellness Outcomes: Improved Cognitive Function, Improved Physical Health

Allied Profession Intersections: Nursing

Type of Activity: Outdoor Gardening, Plant Propagation, Forest/Natural Area Immersion, AI/Digital Tools in Therapeutic Horticulture

Evidence Type: Observational Research, Qualitative Research

Measurement and Evaluation: Metrics for Mental Health, Program Effectiveness, Longitudinal Studies

Access: Free

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Summary

This study examined the progression of cognitive, physical, and mental disability in a dementia-diagnosed subject residing in an elderly care facility, focusing on the impact of horticultural therapy techniques amidst COVID-19 restrictions. Methods included analyzing assessment data and care plan changes using AI to evaluate the effectiveness of active and passive horticultural therapy. The results indicated that while the subject’s care needs progressed over two years, the burden of care did not increase, and cognitive decline wasn’t faster than the general Alzheimer’s Disease population.

The study also found that during nursing care level 1, mini-mental state evaluation scores were significantly higher with horticultural therapy intervention, and dementia behavior disturbance scores were lower. This research suggests that horticultural therapy techniques in Japanese welfare facilities for the elderly may be effective in preventing the progression of cognitive impairment, even during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Link

Koura, S., Nishikawa, C., Inagaki, T. et al. (2023). Long-term active and passive horticultural therapy intervention for elderly patients with moderate dementia and AI analysis of medical records and care documents. Open Journal of Therapy and Rehabilitation, 11(1), 17-33.

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