Design of evidence-based Gardens and Garden Therapy for Neurodisability in Scandinavia: Data From 14 Sites

Abstract

aim: A total of 14 Scandinavian therapy gardens were visited and data collected on plantings, therapeutic activities and assessment of effectiveness in Spring 2014. methodology: Data were gathered by a questionnaire and by interviewing staff in Sweden, Denmark and Norway. The data collection structured proforma used the post-occupation assessment method. results: Gardening promoted physical movement, presented cognitive challenges and provided opportunities for social participation. Half the gardens were enclosed with sensory plants and 85% were adapted for wheelchairs. A total of 57% of gardens visited had simple designs with flowers, shrubs, lawns and trees. A social center was important especially for dementia clients. Planted pots were used in 79% of gardens. The effectiveness of therapy gardens was assessed at 71% of sites.In 2011, a study of the suitability of the garden for use by clients with Huntington's disease (HD), relatives and staff, for both therapy and leisure gardening was conducted at the Royal Hospital for Neuro-disability in London [1]. Gardening provided HD clients with a sense of achievement and facilitated activity in a rich sensory environment, involving physical work and cognitive challenges. It also provided choice, self-expression, exposure to nature, ownership in a communal facility and Summary points• Gardens are a sensory and stimulating environment for therapy outdoors.• Healing gardens have been created and assessed for effectiveness in Scandinavia.• Gardening may increase well being in neurological conditions and dementia clients.• Scandinavian therapy gardens had simple designs.• Garden groups in Scandinavia facilitate multidisciplinary therapeutic interventions to encourage movement, communication and cognition and foster therapeutic relationships.• Evidence was presented on the benefits of indoor plants and views of garden from windows.• Gardens and gardening groups were assessed with quantitative and qualitative methods and a scale to measure the restorative quality of environments was developed in Scandinavia.• Scandinavian gardens were compact, simple and flexible in design and growing provided highly visible results which encouraged participation.• Evidence-based gardens encourage socialization and activity as well as restoration and relaxation.• Evidence of the therapeutic effects of indoor plants and the views from windows of planting could be considered when new care facilities are planned. Keywords• adjunct therapy • dementia • garden • Huntington's disease • neurodisability • quality of life • Scandinavia For reprint orders, please contact: reprints@futuremedicine.com

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