A research conducted by YWCA and School of Nursing of Hong Kong Polytechnic University has found that household horticultural therapy can relieve pressure of both dementia patients and their caregivers when done together. It also highlighted the benefits of using the hydroponic machine, which can notify users the best time to irrigate and fertilise.

30 pairs of dementia patients and corresponding caregivers were involved with two-month horticultural therapy programme. Questionnaires were given before and after the programme to measure their cognitive functions and mental health. 

Results revealed a significant decrease of over 23% in the behavioural and psychological symptoms of dementia (BPSD) among patients after the programme. In addition, the self-measured happiness increased approximately by 14.5% in average. Caregivers' report on stress towards patients’ BPSD was significantly lowered by around 40% in general, while their degree of hapiness increased by 5%. 

Ms. Joan Hon, Chief Officer of YWCA Elderly Service Department, said the research supported household horticultural therapy as a new way to match the psychological needs of both dementia patients and their caregivers, given that the three-year pandemic discouraged them to reach out. She mentioned YWCA will hold regular horticultural therapy workshops, and will start hydroponic machine lending service to match the needs in society. Interested individuals shall reach YWCA at 26767067.

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