RESEARCH

Residents’ Use and Perceptions of Residential Care Facility Gardens: A Behaviour Mapping and Conversation Study

The study found that older adults in residential care facilities primarily used gardens for socializing and relaxation. These garden visits were also perceived as important for sensory stimulation and the evocation of past memories, contributing to residents’ well-being.

Program Types: Social

Population Groups: Older Adults/Seniors, Dementia/Traumatic & Acquired Brain Injuries, Mental Health Challenges/Trauma, Physical Disabilities, Chronic/Acute Health Conditions

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

Health and Wellness Outcomes: Enhanced Emotional Well-being, Greater Sense of Purpose, Increased Sense of Belonging (Reduced Isolation), Improved Stress Management, Sensory Stimulation, Increased Social Engagement & Skills, Longevity & Aging Well, Increased Self-Efficacy

Allied Profession Intersections: Occupational Therapy, Landscape Design, Nursing

Type of Activity: Sensory Stimulation, Outdoor Gardening, Edible Plant Gardening, Meal/Diet-Based Activities

Evidence Type: Peer-Reviewed Studies, Observational Research, Qualitative Research, Quantitative Research, Anecdotal Evidence/Testimonials

Measurement and Evaluation: Metrics for Mental Health, Metrics for Physical Health, Patient-Reported Outcomes, Standardized Assessment Tools

Access: Free

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Summary

This study explored how older adults living in residential care facilities (RCFs) used and felt about their gardens. Researchers visited two gardens that residents had previously rated highly for their restorative qualities out of a total of 87 RCFs. They observed 11 residents (eight women and three men, with an average age of 86) during their visits to the gardens on five different occasions. The researchers used a method called behaviour mapping, where they made notes on maps about who was in the garden, what they were doing, and for how long. They also took field notes and had recorded conversations with the residents in the gardens to understand their thoughts and experiences.

The researchers wanted to understand how the residents used the gardens and what they perceived during their visits, especially in terms of relaxation and sensory stimulation. They were also interested in what might help or prevent residents from going out into the garden, such as weather or design features. By combining their observations and the residents’ own words, the study aimed to show how important gardens are for the well-being of older adults in care facilities.

Link

Dahlkvist, E., Engström, M., & Nilsson, A. (2020). Residents’ use and perceptions of residential care facility gardens: A behaviour mapping and conversation study. Int J Older People Nurs.,15(1), e12283

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