An important part of landscape architecture is not just design, but how the design makes a person feel. Christina Hughey, our Horticulture Therapy specialist, is here to provide information regarding these aspects of design.
The first tidbit is how gardens can impact elderly. Well designed gardens can improve behavior and moods associated with Alzheimer’s disease. Research by Dr. Joanne Westphal indicates that Alzheimer’s patients who spent ten minutes or more a day engaging in a garden activity improved in physical and mental health. These patients improved in mood, blood pressure, heart rate, and requested less pain medication.