Physiological and psychological effects of gardening activity in older adults

AimGardening has long been one of most enjoyable pastimes among older adults. Whether gardening activities contribute to the well-being of older adults is a major question. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to clarify the psychophysiological relaxing effects of gardening activities on older adults living in modern institutional care. MethodsThe study participants were 40 older women aged 79.5 8.09 years (mean SD). A cross-over study design was used to investigate the physiological and psychological responses to environments with and without plants. Physiological evaluation was carried out using blood pressure and electroencephalography, and psychological evaluation was carried out using the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory and Semantic Differential method. ResultsBlood pressure was significantly lower, and changes in brainwaves were observed. Psychological responses showed that participants were more comfortable and relaxed after the plant task than after the control task. In addition, total anxiety levels were significantly lower after carrying out the plant task than after the control task. ConclusionsOur research suggests that gardening activities might enhance physiological and psychological relaxation in older adults. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2018; 18: 1147-1152.