RESEARCH

Systematic Review on the Positive Mental Health Impact of Older Adults Participation in Horticultural Activities in Long Term Care Facilities

Examining the results from the reviewed studies, six out of the eleven that assessed dietary intake reported an increase in vegetable consumption, while four showed no effect. Furthermore, seven of the eight studies that measured preference found that the garden programs resulted in an increased preference for vegetables among participants.

Program Types: Therapeutic

Population Groups: Older Adults/Seniors, Dementia/Traumatic & Acquired Brain Injuries, Rehabilitation, General Population, Chronic/Acute Health Conditions

Setting or Context: Assisted Living/Long-Term Care Homes, Schools/Educational Settings, Hospitals/Clinics, Community Gardens, Urban vs. Rural Settings, Natural Areas/Parks/Forest

Health and Wellness Outcomes: Improved Mental Health, Enhanced Emotional Well-being, Greater Sense of Purpose, Increased Sense of Belonging (Reduced Isolation), Improved Stress Management, Improved Cognitive Function, Improved Physical Health, Improved Balance, Increase in Standing or Walking Tolerance, Faster Recovery Times, Decreased Need for Pain Medication, Longevity & Aging Well

Allied Profession Intersections: Recreational Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Behavioral Therapy, Social Work, Counselling, Education, Forest/Ecotherapy, Climate Psychology/Psychotherapy, Nursing

Type of Activity: Sensory Stimulation, Indoor Plant Care, Outdoor Gardening, Plant Propagation, Growing Plants from Seed, Mindfulness/Visualizations, AI/Digital Tools in Therapeutic Horticulture

Evidence Type: Peer-Reviewed Studies, Case Studies, Meta-Analyses/Systematic Reviews, Randomized Controlled Trials, Qualitative Research, Quantitative Research, Anecdotal Evidence/Testimonials

Measurement and Evaluation: Metrics for Mental Health, Metrics for Physical Health, Patient-Reported Outcomes, Standardized Assessment Tools, Program Effectiveness, Longitudinal Studies, Efficacy of AI/Digital Interventions

Access: Free

Print Form

Summary

This study conducted a review of thirteen published studies focusing on the impact of garden-based programs in schools on dietary intake and related behaviors in children. A key aspect of the study’s design was its specific inclusion criteria, requiring studies to be in English, conducted in school settings with a garden component, and have baseline and post-intervention dietary measures. The review aimed to synthesize the findings from these diverse studies, which included prospective, quasi-experimental, and non-randomized controlled trials, notably none of which were randomized. The researchers sought to identify common strategies employed by these programs to understand what components might contribute to their success.

The methodology involved searching databases like Medline and Embase to identify relevant studies published between 1998 and 2016. The thirteen selected studies varied widely in terms of duration, target age group (kindergarten through 8th grade), socioeconomic background and ethnicity of participants, and the specific components of the garden interventions. The analysis focused on summarizing the reported outcomes on dietary intake and determinants of behavior, as well as identifying recurring strategies across the programs, such as ‘hands on’ activities, cooking components, and involvement of stakeholders. The study highlights the popularity of school gardens as a health promotion tool despite a noted paucity of rigorous empirical evidence.

Link

Jueng, R.N., Lin, C.Y., & Huang, Y.H. (2023). Systematic review on the positive mental health impact of older adults participation in horticultural activities in long term care facilities. Horticulturae, 9(10), 1076

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.

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

This Meta-synthesis highlights the benefits of holding therapy sessions in nature, which can reduce stress, improve mood, and enhance emotional well-being. While outdoor therapy offers unique advantages, such as greater openness and connection with nature, it also requires careful consideration of client suitability and professional training.