Connect and thrive
Astrid Cooper shares her reflections on a project to promote positive wellbeing through social and therapeutic horticultural activities at a mental health inpatient unit for older people
The Forest Centre is a 24-bed mental health inpatient
unit for older adults . The unit is divided into two wards , one functional and one organic . In addition to a communal open-air courtyard in the centre of the unit , a large garden spans the rear of the building .
The therapy team based at centre has previously offered sporadic garden-related activities . However , following an inspirational therapeutic horticulture for occupational therapists workshop in September 2019 , led by occupational therapist Lynne Evans , who is also qualified in social and therapeutic horticulture , and harnessing a personal developing passion for gardening , the Connect and Thrive project has been introduced to the unit to formalise garden and nature-related activities within the weekly therapy treatment programme .
What is Connect and Thrive ? The project strives to promote positive wellbeing through social and therapeutic horticultural activities . The overarching aim links to specific goals within patients ’ individual care plans , for example promotion of social ability , self-confidence and self-esteem , reduction in anxiety and increase in active relaxation .
The sessions also promote sensory and reminiscence interactions , of particular importance to patients living with dementia . Working within the Vona du Toit Model of Creative Ability ( VdT MoCA ), activities can be levelled according to the individual ’ s current level of functional ability , addressing the occupational performance areas of personal management , social ability , work ability and use of free time .
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Historical context of horticulture and mental health Horticulture , and related activities , can be used as a vehicle to address engagement in meaningful and purposeful occupation , providing structure and routine , promoting roles , responsibilities and participation in society .
As a therapeutic activity , gardening has historically been utilised within mental health settings over a long period of time , although the more widespread introduction of social and therapeutic horticultural projects within the UK is a rather more recent development ( Sempik et al 2003 ).
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