Effects of horticultural therapy: Perspectives of frail and pre‐frail older nursing home residents

Abstract

Abstract Aim The aim of the study was to explore the perceptions and experiences of a group of frail and/or pre‐frail older nursing home residents in relation to horticultural therapy. Method A total of 22 frail/pre‐frail residents were interviewed. A qualitative content analysis approach was adopted to interpret the data from four nursing homes. Results Four main themes were identified: (a) “Horticultural therapy is an enjoyable activity and a good pastime in nursing home life”; (b) “Joining the programme made me happier”; (c) “Horticultural activities facilitated socialization among the residents”; and (4) “Not much mention was made of the programme by the staff outside the sessions.” Conclusion and implication for practice The findings provide evidence of the positive effects of horticultural therapy on perceived well‐being among frail nursing home residents and expand the existing state of knowledge on the use of horticultural therapy in long‐term residential care. Among others nursing implications, they are also important to develop appropriate and meaningful nursing practice to improve frail residents' perceived quality of life in the institution they now call “home.”

Keywords

• gardens
• horticultural therapy
• horticulture
• nurses
• nursing
• nursing homes