Gardens and Hospice Care: The Healing Power of Nature

Hospice care is an essential service that provides comfort, dignity, and support to individuals with terminal illnesses. It focuses on the quality of life of the patient, rather than a cure, in their final days. While hospice care can be emotional, it is also rewarding for both the patient and their family. However, creating a serene and comforting environment for patients can be challenging. One way to address this challenge is by incorporating gardens into hospice care facilities.

The Benefits of Gardens in Hospice Care

Gardens have long been associated with healing powers. In fact, the idea of medicinal gardens dates back to ancient Greece. Today, modern medicine recognizes the benefits of nature as a complementary therapy for various ailments, including chronic pain, depression, and anxiety. For patients in hospice care, gardens offer numerous benefits:

• Reduced stress and anxiety: Exposure to nature has been shown to reduce cortisol levels, lower blood pressure, and promote relaxation.
• Promote physical activity: Walking or sitting in a garden can help improve mobility and promote exercise among patients.
• Improved mood and mental health: Gardens can provide a sense of calm and tranquility, which can be beneficial for patients dealing with depression or other mental health issues.
• Sense of normalcy: Spending time in a garden can give patients a sense of normalcy and connection to the outside world.
• Opportunity for social interaction: Gardens can serve as a gathering place for patients, staff, and family members, providing an opportunity for socialization and community building.

Designing Gardens for Hospice Care Facilities

Designing a garden for hospice care requires careful consideration of the patients' needs and limitations. Here are some key design elements to keep in mind:

Accessibility

The garden should be easily accessible for patients with limited mobility, such as those using wheelchairs or walkers. Paths should be wide enough for two people to pass each other comfortably, and there should be no steps or uneven surfaces that could pose a tripping hazard.

Comfortable seating

Seating should be placed throughout the garden, allowing patients to rest and enjoy the scenery. Benches with armrests are ideal, as they provide additional support when sitting down or getting up.

Sensory stimulation

The garden should engage all five senses, providing a variety of textures, scents, and sounds. Planting fragrant flowers, wind chimes, and bird feeders can help enhance the sensory experience.

Shade and shelter

The garden should provide ample shade and shelter from the sun and rain. Pergolas, gazebos, and covered porches can provide shelter while still allowing patients to enjoy the outdoors.

Examples of Gardens in Hospice Care Facilities

Many hospice care facilities have incorporated gardens into their design, recognizing the therapeutic benefits they provide. Here are some examples of gardens in hospice care facilities:

The Peaceful Garden at Holyoke Medical Center in Massachusetts features a water fountain and a gazebo, providing a tranquil space for patients and families.

The Serenity Garden at Hospice of Michigan in Grand Rapids features a walking path, benches, and a pond with koi fish, providing a peaceful and serene environment.

The Therapy Garden at Seasons Hospice & Palliative Care in Maryland features raised flower beds, birdhouses, and a wheelchair-accessible walkway, providing a therapeutic and engaging experience for patients.

Gardens are a powerful tool for promoting healing and improving quality of life for individuals in hospice care. They offer numerous benefits, including reduced stress and anxiety, improved mood and mental health, and opportunities for social interaction. When designing a garden for hospice care, it is important to consider accessibility, seating, sensory stimulation, and shade and shelter. By incorporating gardens into their facilities, hospice care providers can create a more welcoming and comforting environment for their patients.

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