To improve the health of senior citizens, Bloom Social Therapeutic Horticulture (STH) launched a healing garden intervention project in two private aged care homes in Lagos.
Public Health and Sustainability Expert, Funmi Akindejoye, who led the team, said the program aims to improve psychological outcomes and overall quality of life for the elderly by incorporating natural and sensory stimulation into treatment.
He noted that research has shown that access to green space can have a positive impact on mental health and well-being, adding that the use of plants and gardening activities in therapeutic and rehabilitation settings improves the quality of life for aging populations worldwide.
In developing countries like Nigeria, Akindejoye said, the potential benefits of gardens in nursing homes are not well known.
“Some people are starting to implement the concept of care homes. So, it is necessary to support and improve the quality of care in the few homes that are available,” he said.
The expert added that the project was supported by the Alzheimer’s Association, the Alzheimer’s Society UK and the Global Brain Health Institute (GBHI).