Using indoor plants and natural elements to positively impact occupants of residential aged-care facilities

Abstract

Accumulated research points to the therapeutic effects of including outdoor gardens in aged-care facilities, yet few facilities do so. Space and financial constraints are the major barriers to including them. Aspects of the indoor environment of residential aged-care facilities, such as they being too noisy, odorous, and lacking in warm interpersonal contact, with long hospital-like corridors help to define a sick role rather than create a home-like atmosphere. This pilot study examined the effect of an indoor simulated garden installation in a residential aged care facility that included visual, auditory and olfactory stimuli. Pre- and post-measures of residents' satisfaction with their living environment and social engagement were analysed. The results demonstrate that introducing elements of nature, such as plants, into the indoor environment is a highly affordable way for facilities to create a homely atmosphere and capitalise on the therapeutic effects of nature.