Using Horticultural Therapy in Local Nursing Homes

Publication Date

2025

Presentation Length

Poster/Gallery presentation

College

Interdisciplinary Studies & Global Education

Department

Honors Program

Student Level

Undergraduate

Faculty Advisor

Stacy Elliott

WELL Core Type

Physical Wellness

SPARK Session

Stacy Elliott's 2-3pm in Ayers 2142

Presentation Type

Gallery

Summary

As new research has made evident the efficacy of alternative medicine in combating financial burdens of healthcare while still maintaining notable health benefits, one avenue that physicians are increasingly turning to is prescribing interaction with nature. However, interaction with nature can occur in many ways but often is limited by access to resources as well as mobility challenges. This project sought to offer a new solution to these inequalities by bringing the practice of horticultural therapy to these challenged populations. Horticultural therapy is defined as facilitating patient interaction and care for plants as a therapeutic method of healing. It can take many different forms, allowing people to modify treatment to address the unique situations of many different populations of interest. This project sought to bring gardening resources to members of nursing homes who do not have the same access to nature as many others. This included a hands-on experience with nature without the physical burden of movement. Patients were able to keep and care for their plant, ensuring an ongoing interaction with nature. A post-survey was conducted to assess the efficacy of horticultural therapy in reducing stress. This project allowed students to bring care to those in need and fill a pre-existing gap in healthcare while simultaneously generating scientific evidence and data to support the cause. Overall, this horticultural therapy project helped encourage nature as a form of alternative medicine and support a more accessible way for all to maintain personal wellbeing.

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