Horticulture and Dementia: A Review of Literature as it Affects the Domains

Abstract

Dementia is a neurocognitive condition that affects individuals in the later stages of adulthood. Cognitive decline affecting memory, thinking, and behavior, alongside symptoms of depression and anxiety are typically present in individuals with dementia. Horticultural therapy is the interaction between people and plant-based activities, allowing for positive benefits through aspects of physical, social, cognitive and behavioral domains. Based on conducted research, these domains are especially impacted when horticultural therapy is utilized by older adults with dementia. Articles used within the research were based on horticulture as a therapeutic intervention for older adults and were published within a ten-year frame (2010-2020). All domains researched in relation to horticultural therapy as a modality exhibited positive benefits for this population. The cognitive domain improves the quality of life of older adults with dementia through relaxation, psychological and physiological aspects of horticulture therapy. Furthermore, the social domain is affected by decreasing social isolation, increasing positive interactions with peers, and increasing quality of life. Additionally, the behavioral domain is influenced by implementing activities such as art and music to stimulate an individual’s five senses. Regarding the physical domain, activities can result in neurotic responses which are shown to improve memory. The domains of an individual with dementia can be directly affected by utilizing horticulture therapy. There are few limitations that affected this research such as resources, finances, and accessibility. This intervention is still being tested due to it being a newer form of treatment, which requires further research. Check for updates Citation: Trainer PD, Bryan A, Crilley A, et al. (2021) Horticulture and Dementia: A Review of Literature as it Affects the Domains. J Hortic Sci Res 4(1):146-149 Trainer et al. J Hortic Sci Res 2021, 4(1):146-149 Open Access | Page 147 | Methods The methodology focused on both horticultural therapy and dementia separately to gain further knowledge regarding each topic. Alongside individualized research, the topics were explored collectively to identify a research gap between the two subjects. After obtaining a general knowledge about horticultural therapy and dementia, researchers were able to compare the needs of dementia, the outcomes of horticultural therapy, and current treatment methods that are currently implemented. Furthermore, databases used for the search were EBSCOHost, USA.gov and PubMed. Search keywords used were “Horticulture journal, Horticulture therapy, Dementia, leisure, older adults, gardening, and older adults with Dementia journals”. All articles selected for research were literature reviews. Inclusion criteria were articles published within a ten-year span (2010-2020). Studies chosen were based around using horticulture or gardening as a form of treatment or therapy for older individuals diagnosed with dementia. Selected studies delved into detailed explanations of what dementia is, the symptoms related to it, and treatments. Articles that defined horticulture therapy and the benefits involved using this modality as a form of treatment were also preferred. More importantly, studies and articles that revealed results related to using horticulture as a modality for older adults with dementia were utilized. Exclusion criteria were articles published before the ten-year span starting from 2010. If the articles did not have the key words “Horticulture Therapy” and “Dementia”, they were not considered reliable information to use for the research. This allows for credible research to be implemented in order to provide the most up to date results based on this intervention.