Efficacy of a horticultural activity program for reducing depression and loneliness in older residents of nursing homes in Taiwan

Promoting psychological health in older populations is important. This study evaluated a horticultural activity program for reducing depression and loneliness in older residents of nursing homes in Taiwan. A convenience sample of 150 older residents of three nursing homes were recruited and randomly assigned to either an experimental group or a control group. The experimental group (n = 75) participated in an 8-week horticultural activity program. The control group (n = 75) received routine care. Generalized estimating equations analyses revealed significant time by treatment interaction effects for depression (p < .001) and loneliness (p < .001). This study provides a reference for improving psychological health in older people.