RESEARCH

An Observational Assessment of a Dementia- Specific Horticultural Therapy Program

This study evaluated a 10-week horticultural therapy (HT) program for adults with dementia in an adult day service program, finding that participants spent more time engaged during HT activities compared to non-HT activities.

Program Types: Therapeutic

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

Setting or Context: Schools/Educational Settings

Health and Wellness Outcomes: Sensory Stimulation, Increased Social Engagement & Skills, Enhanced Emotional Well-being, Greater Sense of Purpose

Allied Profession Intersections: Recreational Therapy

Type of Activity: Edible Plant Gardening, Nature-Based Arts & Crafts, Growing Plants from Seed, Sensory Stimulation, Outdoor Gardening

Evidence Type: Quantitative Research, Observational Research, Qualitative Research

Measurement and Evaluation: Program Effectiveness, Metrics for Physical Health, Standardized Assessment Tools

Access: Free

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Summary

This study evaluated a 10-week horticultural therapy (HT) program for adults with dementia at a university-run adult day service program. The researchers developed and implemented stimulating, appropriate horticultural activities that could be modified to suit participants with varying abilities. They then compared the effects of these HT activities to more typical adult day service activities.

The study used observational methods to assess participant engagement and affect during HT and non-HT activities. The researchers hypothesized that participants would spend less time doing nothing and more time engaged in the presented activity during HT sessions than non-HT activities. They also expected participants to display more positive affect during HT activities. The results supported these hypotheses, showing that participants engaged in horticultural activities for longer periods than non-horticultural activities while maintaining comparable affect. The findings suggest that HT is an appropriate and beneficial activity for dementia care programs serving adults with a wide range of cognitive, physical, and social needs.

Link

Jarrott, S. E., Kwack, H. R., & Relf, D. (2002). An Observational Assessment of a Dementia-specific Horticultural Therapy Program. HortTechnology, 12(3), 403–410.

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