Gardening with Huntington's disease clients – creating a programme of winter activities

Abstract

Purpose. A programme of garden-related indoor activities was developed to sustain a gardening group for people with mid to late stage Huntington's disease during the winter.

Method. The activities were devised by the horticulturist, working empirically, involving the services occupational therapist, physiotherapist, occupational therapy art technician, computer room, recreation and leisure staff. The programme was strongly supported by the nursing and care staff. Feedback on the effectiveness of the activities was sought from the clients, team members and unit staff.

Results. The clients' interest in gardening was sustained by a multidisciplinary programme of indoor growing and using plant products in creative activities, computing and group projects. The clients enjoyed all activities except one that they said lacked contact with plants.

Conclusions. The inexpensive programme of activities enabled creativity and self-expression, stimulated social contact and helped with therapeutic goals of the clients. In addition, it engaged the multi-disciplinary team and the unit staff, was practical and enhanced the environment.

Keywords:

• Huntington's disease
• gardening
• leisure

Acknowledgements

The authors thank Marietta Clegg, Assistant Director of Clinical Services, Dr. Sophie Duport, Head of Research, Professor Beaumont, Head of Psychology, the staff across the RHN Wolfson H D Service and Cottenham Park Allotment and Garden Association.