Influence of an Outdoor Garden on Mood and Stress in Older Persons

Rodiek, S (2002). Influence of an Outdoor Garden on Mood and Stress in Older Persons. Journal of Therapeutic Horticulture, Volume XIII, 13-21 Influence of an Outdoor Garden on Mood and Stress in Older Persons Susan Rodiek Despite recent interest in... More

Rodiek, S (2002). Influence of an Outdoor Garden on Mood and Stress in Older Persons. Journal of Therapeutic Horticulture, Volume XIII, 13-21 Influence of an Outdoor Garden on Mood and Stress in Older Persons Susan Rodiek Despite recent interest in healing gardens and therapeutic landscapes at residential care facilities, few empirical studies have measured health outcomes in elderly populations. This study explored methods for assessing psychological and physiological outcomes associated with natural environments. Seventeen residents ranging from 71 to 98 years of age (mean 84. 7) engaged in the same activities at an outdoor horticultural garden or indoor classroom. Before and after the experience, subjects were assessed for positive and negative mood, anxiety, and salivary cortisol. No significant change was found in mood or anxiety level. Cortisol was significantly lower in the garden environment compared with the indoor settings, indicating greater reduction in stress level. Less