Design Characteristics of Sensory Gardens in Norwegian Nursing Homes: A Cross-Sectional E-Mail Survey |
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| Authors: | Marianne Thorsen Gonzalez Marit Kirkevold |
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| Institution: | 1. Department of Nursing Science, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway;2. Faculty of Health, VID Specialized University, Oslo, Norwaymarianne.gonzalez@vid.no |
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| Abstract: | ABSTRACTSensory gardens are increasingly popular in Norwegian nursing homes. This study examined the design characteristics of Norwegian sensory gardens using a cross-sectional web survey design addressing nursing home leaders (n = 121). The findings revealed that Norwegian sensory gardens were generally compliant with recommended design guidelines involving sensory experiences, stable walkways, landmarks, accessibility, visibility from indoors, seating features, and prosthetic supports. There is, however, a potential for further improvements concerning walkways with rails, access to alarm systems, clear signposts to toilets from the outdoors, lighting in the evenings, greenhouses, increased awareness of edible and nontoxic plants, and maintenance of the gardens. |
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| Keywords: | dementia nursing home sensory garden therapeutic environment sensory garden design guidelines |
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