As a practicing horticultural therapist for 15 years, I have found that gardening and other forms of horticulture have provided tremendous physical and psychological rewards. Many of the elderly have worked with plants at one time, and so exposure to this activity stimulates old work skills. For those who are involved with gardening for the first time, new work skills are developed. Another benefit of working with plants in the enrichment of one's self esteem through a positive and rewarding experience.
Most progressive homes, hospitals and institutions offer a wide variety of horticultural programs. for the physically active person, there are raised soil beds and container planters that are built close to the home or hospital for easy access. Indoor, windows can be adapted for growing plants on shelves or, thanks to 'Floralight', an innovative light unit company, there are interior garden units with tiered shelves. One recent development is a special light unit on wheels for use with wheelchairs and beds. the activity derived from this kind of garden system offers challenges and rewards for those who could not otherwise be involved with gardening.
Sarah's success
An example of this kind of therapy reminds me of an elderly lady who was depressed for a long period of time and was known to isolate herself. Sarah was given an amaryllis bulb for Christmas. with little enthusiasm, she planted this bulb and kept it in her bathroom. She watered it occasionally and was soon surprised to see something emerge. The stem began to sprout at a fast rate and she felt that the plant should be moved to her bedroom for her roommate to see. Sarah was amazed at this growth rate and delighted when the first bloom appeared. She wanted to share this with others, and moved it to the main lounge area where everyone could view the beauty of this plant, which Sarah had grown for a bulb. this rather reclusive lady was now talking, sharing and socializing with others because of her positive experience.
In order for a plant to survive it needs care: water, sunlight, fertilizer. With this small responsibility, the patient can experience his own worth and the value of his existence.
Horticulture can provide an emotional catharsis. the elderly often have great feelings of anxiety built up within themselves and the horticultural therapy program serves as a release for that anxiety or energy. The energy is then directed toward a useful and socially acceptable activity such as hoeing, pruning, mowing grass and breaking pots for clay chips. Through group activities and with encouragement from staff, social contacts and socialized behaviour are increased.
Many activities require team work and, with patients helping each other attain a goal or finish a project, social interaction is required. A sense of achievement is instilled in the elderly through the growing of plants, planting vegetables, designing terrariums and other such projects. When these projects are used in display or in decorating areas within their residence, they can enjoy the benefits of having contributed to the overall results.
Other benefits derived from horticultural activities include an increased range of movement for arthritic hands and joints, improved circulation and muscular toning. Horticulture aids in the recovery process during a prolonged illness and also eases the adjustment to medical treatment and institutional regimes.
It is perhaps significant to note that for the elderly, horticultural therapy is a most rewarding and satisfying experience. Regardless of age, limitation, mental or physical disability, horticulture can meet a patient's needs, providing success along with a sense of accomplishment and well-being.
Mitchell Hewson is Horticultural Therapist, with 15 years experience in the field.