Developing a Framework of Edible Garden Concept for Horticultural Therapy for the Elderly People

Abstract

Around one in every nine persons in the world are aged 60 years old and the proportion one in five persons is expected to be increased by 2050. Aging will create new challenges for health and social services in our country. The current research has established that spending time in the outdoor environment can provide notable health benefits especially for elderly people including by improving sleep patterns, moods, and also hormone balance. Horticultural therapy through Edible Garden is one of the best approaches that should be considered in the making of a productive senior community. The purpose of this research is to investigate the effects of horticultural therapy on the psychologic, physical, cognitive function and quality of life among elderly in Pusat Aktiviti Warga Emas (PAWE). The goal is to determine how gardening activities can increase their quality of life and prevent the elderly from dementia problems as well. The methodology used mainly involves six stages using quantitative and qualitative methods. Finding the effects of horticultural therapy through Edible Garden can be used as a module in PAWE as guidelines in providing a better lifestyle. This research will give benefits to society by promoting a healthy lifestyle among the elderly through gardening activities and reduce dementia problem. This research will contribute to new knowledge in dealing with elderly people not only in Malaysia but similar to the global elderly issues especially in urban areas around the world.