Factors influencing the use of and attitude toward community gardens in aged care facilities: The managers’ perspective

Abstract

An increasing number of elderly people are living in aged care facilities in Japan, a country that is facing a globally unprecedented challenge of population aging. Due to the declining health status and mobility limitations of older adults, community gardens (CGs) are crucial for giving residents in aged care facilities contact with nature. However, there is a lack of research on the characteristics and perceptions of CGs in aged care facilities in Japan and how these factors can influence the use of and attitude toward CGs. In this study, a questionnaire was developed and sent to the managers of elderly housing with care services (EHCS) across the Tokyo metropolitan area (TMA) in Japan in 2020. The aim of the study was to examine the effects of the characteristics and perceptions of CGs on the frequency of gardening activities, leisure activities, and attitudes toward gardening activities. Data were collected from 44 EHCS managers and were analyzed by using descriptive and inferential statistics. The results indicated that the use of gardens (frequency of gardening activities, absence of leisure activities) was positively associated with the garden area, the number of garden equipment types, the presence of barrier-free design elements, interaction, community aesthetics, and a sufficient number of participants. Compared to a low frequency of gardening activities, a high frequency of gardening activities was also associated with a decreased building age and improved education about agriculture. The managers with negative attitudes had gardens managed only by residents, and they showed more concern about the reduced attractiveness of CGs and insufficient members. The study provides significant lessons for policy makers and facility managers to focus on the development of strategies that will establish and strengthen the cooperation between aged care facilities and community agencies and organizations to encourage community members to engage in CGs.