RESEARCH

What Is the Evidence to Support the Use of Therapeutic Gardens for the Elderly?

This literature review examines the evidence supporting the use of therapeutic gardens for the elderly, highlighting their impact on mental and physical health, stress reduction, and cognitive function.
Program Types: Therapeutic
Population Groups: Older Adults/Seniors
Setting or Context: Assisted Living/Long-Term Care Homes
Health and Wellness Outcomes: Improved Mental Health, Enhanced Emotional Well-being, Improved Stress Management, Improved Cognitive Function, Improved Physical Health
Allied Profession Intersections: Recreational Therapy, Occupational Therapy
Type of Activity: Outdoor Gardening
Evidence Type: Meta-Analyses/Systematic Reviews
Measurement and Evaluation: Program Effectiveness
Access: Free
Print Form

Summary

The study explores how therapeutic gardens and horticultural therapy can improve the well-being of elderly individuals, particularly those in long-term care, assisted living, and dementia units. Evidence suggests that access to natural settings can help reduce pain perception, alleviate stress, improve attention and memory, and enhance overall quality of life. Additionally, exposure to gardens has been associated with decreased agitation, lower use of psychotropic medications, and a reduction in falls among dementia patients.

Despite these promising findings, the review notes a lack of rigorous, controlled clinical trials to quantify the effects of therapeutic gardens. The authors advocate for more structured research to establish standardized measures of efficacy and to integrate garden-based interventions into geriatric care practices. As aging populations grow worldwide, the study emphasizes the need for cost-effective, non-pharmacological strategies, such as therapeutic gardening, to enhance elderly care and improve long-term health outcomes.

Link

Detweiler, Mark & Sharma, Taral & Detweiler, Jonna & Murphy, Pamela & Lane, Sandra & Carman, Jack & Chudhary, Amara & Halling, Mary & Kim, Kye. (2012). What Is the Evidence to Support the Use of Therapeutic Gardens for the Elderly?. Psychiatry investigation. 9. 100-10. 10.4306/pi.2012.9.2.100.

 

Other Recommended Research

Summer Trivia

True or false trivia questions to celebrate summer.

Fruits Mindfulness Exercise

Participants take part in a mindful eating exercise centered around tasting a piece of fruit and reflecting on its journey.

Chive Blossom Vinegar

Participants harvest chive blossoms and infuse them in vinegar, creating a vibrant pink vinegar bursting with allium flavour. Perfect for blending with olive oil to make a delicious salad dressing.

“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.

‘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.

Report

Contains abusive or derogatory content
Contains mature or sensitive content
Contains misleading or false information
Contains spam, fake content or potential malware
Harassment or bullying behavior

Block Member?

Please confirm you want to block this member.

You will no longer be able to:

  • See blocked member's posts
  • Mention this member in posts
  • Invite this member to groups
  • Message this member
  • Add this member as a connection

Please note: This action will also remove this member from your connections and send a report to the site admin. Please allow a few minutes for this process to complete.

Report

You have already reported this .