2024Research Project List
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A Study on the Well-being Benefits of Horticultural Therapy for Elderly Residents in the Central Region.

This study conducted horticultural therapy activities with the elderly at the Fulong Community Care Center in Dongshi and the Sancha Pit Cultural and Health Station in Heping District. According to the WHO-5 Well-Being Index for community elders, the pre-test identified two areas of need: "My daily life is filled with things that interest me" and "I feel active and full of energy." After the design and implementation of horticultural therapy activities, these two items showed the greatest improvement, reaching significant differences.

The SF-36 Health Survey was used in this study to assess the changes in health and emotional well-being of the elders in the Fulong community before and after participating in horticultural therapy sessions. The analyzed indicators included health status, bodily pain, emotional stability, and vitality. Pre- and post-test data demonstrated that horticultural therapy sessions had significant positive effects on both the psychological and physical health of the elderly.

The improvements in the WHO-5 Well-Being Index and SF-36 Health Survey highlight the benefits of community health initiatives in an aging society. Therefore, horticultural therapy programs have proven to be highly effective in enhancing the well-being and mental health of older adults. Combining plants, physical activities, and social interactions, horticultural therapy is a low-cost yet highly beneficial health promotion strategy.

Figure 1. Horticultural Therapy Activity in Fulong Community, Dongshi (Hakka Community)
▲Figure 1. Horticultural Therapy Activity in Fulong Community, Dongshi (Hakka Community)
  Figure 2. Horticultural Therapy Activity in Sanchakeng Community, Heping District (Indigenous Community)
▲Figure 2. Horticultural Therapy Activity in Sanchakeng Community, Heping District (Indigenous Community)
  Figure 3. Achievement Presentation in Fulong Community, Dongshi (Hakka Community)
▲Figure 3. Achievement Presentation in Fulong Community, Dongshi (Hakka Community)