A recent study led by Andy Hong, Director of the Healthy Aging and Resilient Places (HARP) Lab, and colleagues has been featured in a new research brief from Nature and Human Health Utah.
The study, “We Must Understand Their Needs First”: Nature-Based Mental Health Programs Are Beneficial and Feasible for Older Adults, examined a four-week forest-bathing program for adults aged 65 and older at Red Butte Garden in Salt Lake City. Participants took part in guided sessions that included sensory awareness, walking, meditation, and group reflection.
Participants reported an average 39% reduction in depressive symptoms, with the greatest improvements among those who entered the program with higher levels of depression. The study also found that accessibility, transportation, weather, seating, and participant choice can strongly influence older adults’ ability to take part in nature-based programs.
The research highlights the importance of designing nature-based health programs around the needs, abilities, and preferences of older adults.
Authors: Andy Hong, Talayeh M. Hosseini, Miles Elkins, Valerie Greer, Sarah L. Canham, Alessandro Rigolon, and Michelle Sorweid.