RESEARCH

Moving into the Future: Linking Horticultural Therapy and Evidence-Based Practice

Evidence-based practice in horticultural therapy requires critically assessing research and integrating it into treatment plans, while sharing results to improve professional knowledge. Collaboration and repeated studies help validate findings and ensure effective treatments.

Program Types: Social, Therapeutic, Vocational

Population Groups: Chronic/Acute Health Conditions, General Population, Mental Health Challenges/Trauma, Physical Disabilities

Setting or Context: Assisted Living/Long-Term Care Homes, Community Gardens, Hospitals/Clinics, Rehabilitation Centers, Schools/Educational Settings

Health and Wellness Outcomes: Enhanced Emotional Well-being, Improved Cognitive Function, Improved Mental Health, Improved Stress Management

Allied Profession Intersections: Behavioral Therapy, Education, Occupational Therapy, Physical Therapy, Recreational Therapy, Social Work

Type of Activity: Edible Plant Gardening, Indoor Plant Care, Nature-Based Arts & Crafts, Outdoor Gardening, Sensory Stimulation, Vocational Skill Development

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

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

Access: Paid

Summary

Evidence-based practice (EBP) in horticultural therapy (HT) involves using the best available research to make clinical decisions. Practitioners should assess each piece of research critically, considering its source, design, and relevance to their specific needs. Sharing knowledge and results with the professional community, and involving clients in the treatment process are also crucial parts of EBP. This includes creating treatment plans based on well-researched strategies and documenting the efficacy of these methods to contribute to the overall body of knowledge in HT.

To make research in HT useful, professionals need to ensure it is widely applicable and based on solid evidence. They should compile and disseminate their findings in a structured way, maintaining contact with researchers to guide future studies. Collaboration and repeated studies across multiple centers can strengthen the evidence supporting HT practices, ultimately leading to better treatment outcomes and stronger justification for research funding.

Link

Relf, P.D. (2019). Moving into the future: Linking horticultural therapy and evidence-based practice. Acta Hortic. 1246, 1-10. DOI: 10.17660/ActaHortic.2019.1246.1. https://doi.org/10.17660/ActaHortic.2019.1246.1

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