The Garden-Use Model

Abstract

The Garden-Use Model is the result of a multi-case study involving five sites that was designed to develop a better understanding and holistic description of the interrelationship among organizational/ programming policies and spatial/physical attributes of the outdoor space in influencing how much this space was used by residents with dementia in long-term care facilities. The protocol replicated at each site involved an initial site analysis, distribution of staff questionnaires, and behavior observations for six days, including five weekdays and Saturday at every site but one. The results of the study discussed the alignment and findings based on descriptive analysis and collected data at each site regarding the following factors: organizational policy, staff attitudes, visual access, physical access and garden design. This paper summarizes the results of the study related to the above factors and use of available outdoor space. The ultimate focus and conclusion of the paper addresses findings and recommendations for designers, healthcare administrators and others interested in achieving optimal use of the outdoor space among residents with dementia in long-term care facilities. The theoretical framework diagrammed in the “Garden-Use Model” is based on data collected and rich description at each of the five sites that made up the study. This model is presented and serves as the structural basis from which discussion of the factors influencing use of outdoor space ensues. The Garden-use Model also serves in the paper as a tool for facilities that seek to increase garden use among residents and to offer a means for evaluation such facilities.