"The senses" therapeutical garden
Basic information
Project Title
"The senses" therapeutical garden
Full project title
A Garden of Belonging: The Senses Garden's Answer to Seniors' Cry for Connection
Category
Regaining a sense of belonging
Project Description
"Los sentidos" The senses therapeutical garden introduces nature into the urban environment, bringing an innovative professional therapeutic service to promote community, less loneliness, and health. With the interests of Cosladas community at its center, it offers a meeting place where everyone is respected and accepted, where the professional hands facilitate the union between young and old, disabled and healthy, happiness and sorrow. A space where everyone gets help feeling that they belong.
Geographical Scope
Local
Project Region
Coslada (Madrid), Spain
Urban or rural issues
Mainly urban
Physical or other transformations
It refers to a physical transformation of the built environment (hard investment)
EU Programme or fund
No
Description of the project
Summary
The aim of the project was to create a therapeutical garden for the community of Coslada (Madrid). A therapeutical garden is a specially designed outdoor space that is created to promote healing, reduce stress, and enhance the overall well-being of individuals.
The garden was born from a process of reappropriation of an abandoned place. The closure of the old cemetery in 2008 due to unsafe conditions meant a great wound for Coslada population. In the years that followed, the place became a meaningless and decaying void. However, in 2018, the regeneration process of the place began, which saw the transformation of a portion of the empty plot into a therapeutic garden, “The senses”, a pioneering project in the national public sphere. The main objective was to create a new relationship with a place of great emotional value.
The healing garden in Coslada is a public space, especially oriented to promote active ageing, which accommodates about 400 people, mainly focused on people over 55 years of age and people with disabilities but is open to all citizens. It hosts several therapeutic and physical activities, oriented to improve the physical, cognitive, and mental health, depending on the necessities of the user, and promoting social cohesion by the hand of professional therapists.
It is a space that puts the Coslada community and its needs at the center of the process, bringing them together again in an easily accessible and inclusive environment that they feel is their own.
The Senses therapeutical garden has been up and running for almost 5 years, with more than 350 regular users, as well as many visitors. Over the years it has been proven to reduce loneliness and improve the wellbeing of its users.
The project is a first of its kind in Spain, a try out example of the benefits of a therapeutical garden. It has allowed us to develop a design and methodology which has been replicated in other regions and countries such as Germany and Greece.
The garden was born from a process of reappropriation of an abandoned place. The closure of the old cemetery in 2008 due to unsafe conditions meant a great wound for Coslada population. In the years that followed, the place became a meaningless and decaying void. However, in 2018, the regeneration process of the place began, which saw the transformation of a portion of the empty plot into a therapeutic garden, “The senses”, a pioneering project in the national public sphere. The main objective was to create a new relationship with a place of great emotional value.
The healing garden in Coslada is a public space, especially oriented to promote active ageing, which accommodates about 400 people, mainly focused on people over 55 years of age and people with disabilities but is open to all citizens. It hosts several therapeutic and physical activities, oriented to improve the physical, cognitive, and mental health, depending on the necessities of the user, and promoting social cohesion by the hand of professional therapists.
It is a space that puts the Coslada community and its needs at the center of the process, bringing them together again in an easily accessible and inclusive environment that they feel is their own.
The Senses therapeutical garden has been up and running for almost 5 years, with more than 350 regular users, as well as many visitors. Over the years it has been proven to reduce loneliness and improve the wellbeing of its users.
The project is a first of its kind in Spain, a try out example of the benefits of a therapeutical garden. It has allowed us to develop a design and methodology which has been replicated in other regions and countries such as Germany and Greece.
Key objectives for sustainability
First and foremost, in the therapeutical garden of Coslada we mainly work to promote active ageing which aims to prolong the active lifetime of the elderly, this directly contributes to the sustainability of healthcare systems. By promoting physical activity and mental well-being, this garden potentially reduces the burden on healthcare facilities, diminishing the demand for certain medical services. Healthier, active seniors often require fewer hospital visits and are less likely to develop chronic conditions, thus easing the strain on public healthcare resources. An example is that during the pandemic none of the users of the garden got a severe case of Covid. Consequently, the financial resources saved within the healthcare sector can be reinvested in other essential areas, fostering a more sustainable economic framework.
Additionally, the therapeutical garden embodies the principles of circularity. It is a space where organic waste can be composted, supporting a closed-loop system. Seniors can actively participate in gardening, cultivating plants that provide food and herbs. This self-sufficiency promotes environmental consciousness and reduces the need for external resources, aligning with circular economy principles.
On another level, the garden was designed to promote the sustainable use of urban space (Sustainable drainage systems, permeable pavement, perennial planting covering 60 % of surface). Located in an urban area, the garden repurposed underutilizes land, transforming it into a vibrant, green space. This repurposing not only beautified the surroundings but also contributes to the overall environmental sustainability of the city by absorbing carbon dioxide, mitigating urban heat islands, and supporting biodiversity, aligning with goals of ecological sustainability.
Additionally, the therapeutical garden embodies the principles of circularity. It is a space where organic waste can be composted, supporting a closed-loop system. Seniors can actively participate in gardening, cultivating plants that provide food and herbs. This self-sufficiency promotes environmental consciousness and reduces the need for external resources, aligning with circular economy principles.
On another level, the garden was designed to promote the sustainable use of urban space (Sustainable drainage systems, permeable pavement, perennial planting covering 60 % of surface). Located in an urban area, the garden repurposed underutilizes land, transforming it into a vibrant, green space. This repurposing not only beautified the surroundings but also contributes to the overall environmental sustainability of the city by absorbing carbon dioxide, mitigating urban heat islands, and supporting biodiversity, aligning with goals of ecological sustainability.
Key objectives for aesthetics and quality
When we started the design of therapeutical garden the plot of land was an abandoned place. Prior to that it had been an old cemetery that had to close due to unsafe conditions. Our goal was to transform this space into a beautiful, vibrant social meeting point, easily accessible where the community would still feel the presence of the historical heritage that once was there. Furthermore, Coslada is an area of Madrid with a high elderly population. Most of these elders grew up in the countryside and moved to the capital as adults, so it was very important to include part of our agriculture and natural culture intro de design of the garden.
The way “The senses” therapeutical gardens is designed was following these two objectives:
The project represents an action of overwriting the landscape, respecting the pre-existences: The well and the cypresses that once was part of the old cemetery were kept and are intrinsic parts of the garden.
The design aimed to be beautiful and welcoming. It is designed in a way that feels familiar and known to you. For this, we used materials in the garden that are connected to the culture and that feels “human”: Wood, that is neither hot nor cold to sit on, paths with colors of the regional stones, tiles, etc.
The design of a specific module called the reminiscence module. It is a module, or part of the garden, designed specifically to remind the users through smell and sight of the past and the countryside. It is full of elements from everyday life, typical of the Spanish culture. For example, we can find an olive tree, a fig tree, whose fruit gives a very specific smell in spring, or elements of agriculture like an old mattock.
In conclusion, what stands out about The Senses therapeutical garden is that it includes all these cultural elements in its design to provide the users with a sense of belonging within its place as well as offering a beautiful place in touch with nature.
The way “The senses” therapeutical gardens is designed was following these two objectives:
The project represents an action of overwriting the landscape, respecting the pre-existences: The well and the cypresses that once was part of the old cemetery were kept and are intrinsic parts of the garden.
The design aimed to be beautiful and welcoming. It is designed in a way that feels familiar and known to you. For this, we used materials in the garden that are connected to the culture and that feels “human”: Wood, that is neither hot nor cold to sit on, paths with colors of the regional stones, tiles, etc.
The design of a specific module called the reminiscence module. It is a module, or part of the garden, designed specifically to remind the users through smell and sight of the past and the countryside. It is full of elements from everyday life, typical of the Spanish culture. For example, we can find an olive tree, a fig tree, whose fruit gives a very specific smell in spring, or elements of agriculture like an old mattock.
In conclusion, what stands out about The Senses therapeutical garden is that it includes all these cultural elements in its design to provide the users with a sense of belonging within its place as well as offering a beautiful place in touch with nature.
Key objectives for inclusion
Our objective was to create a space where the whole of Coslada community would feel called upon and welcome to participate. Our focus was to create a program of therapies that targeted two main groups of our society that have a risk of being marginalized: The elderly, and people with disabilities. The aim of “The senses” therapeutical garden is to give them a place where they connect with nature, socialize, and give them a sense of belonging and usefulness.
The way “The Senses” has obtained these objectives is by the following actions:
In terms of accessibility, the whole garden is designed and thought out to be easily accessible so everybody can participate. It features pathways that accommodate wheelchairs and mobility aids, like for example, a loop path with a railing from where the users can enjoy the garden whilst they promenade. Elements like raised beds accommodate individuals who cannot bend down, while textured paths assist those with visual impairments. It is easy to find your way in the garden, each space has a purpose and there are many elements to give security (somewhere to sit, a place to take cover, etc.). Furthermore, sensory elements within the garden ensure that everyone can engage with the environment regardless of their sensory abilities.
And in terms of sense of belonging and inclusivity, the garden hosts several therapeutic and physical activities in groups, by the hand of professional therapists. Anybody from Coslada can join these groups for free through the social services. These activities are tailored to the necessity of each user, working on their physical health, cognitive health, and mental health.
What stands out about The senses garden is that it brings together people into a community of different ages and backgrounds, we have groups participating in active ageing, others with dementia, children with disabilities, and the public who are always welcome to come in and enjoy the garden, which gives them visibility in the society.
The way “The Senses” has obtained these objectives is by the following actions:
In terms of accessibility, the whole garden is designed and thought out to be easily accessible so everybody can participate. It features pathways that accommodate wheelchairs and mobility aids, like for example, a loop path with a railing from where the users can enjoy the garden whilst they promenade. Elements like raised beds accommodate individuals who cannot bend down, while textured paths assist those with visual impairments. It is easy to find your way in the garden, each space has a purpose and there are many elements to give security (somewhere to sit, a place to take cover, etc.). Furthermore, sensory elements within the garden ensure that everyone can engage with the environment regardless of their sensory abilities.
And in terms of sense of belonging and inclusivity, the garden hosts several therapeutic and physical activities in groups, by the hand of professional therapists. Anybody from Coslada can join these groups for free through the social services. These activities are tailored to the necessity of each user, working on their physical health, cognitive health, and mental health.
What stands out about The senses garden is that it brings together people into a community of different ages and backgrounds, we have groups participating in active ageing, others with dementia, children with disabilities, and the public who are always welcome to come in and enjoy the garden, which gives them visibility in the society.
Results in relation to category
After 5 years working, The Senses garden hosts 380 active users, of which 75% are elderly and 25% are people with disabilities. The garden is almost at its maximum activity capacity of 400 people. The garden also attracts other visitors: Other local councils, we had visits from elderly people's homes, both from the management and the users, training courses and trainees from the university.
Most of the users start attending the activities due to depression or unwanted loneliness. A study was conducted together with the university of Complutense that showed there is a correlation between loneliness and depression. The self-assessments done in the garden have shown that 30% of the people felt less lonely after attending the garden.
We would like to point out two noteworthy cases from the garden: A man with agoraphobia who had been going to a psychologist for several years, after a year of going to the garden is starting to go out with friends, even looking for a job. Another woman of 88 year of age came due to loneliness. After a few months she formed a habit of going out for coffee after each activity and having breakfast on Saturdays with members of the group.
Furthermore, a big impact has been on the health of the users, keeping them physically and emotionally stronger. The positive impact has been so successful that primary healthcare refers their patients to the garden, and we are an example in the guidebook to promote “healthy city” of the health ministry. Moreover, during Covid we were happy to see that none of the elders got covid during the first wave of the pandemic.
Finally, Cosladas Therapeutical Garden has been a pioneering project that has allowed us to create a methodology and design that works and can be replicated. As a result, the design has been reproduced through the Erasmus+ project in Germany and Greece. It is an example that advocates for the benefits of therapeutical gardens on the wellbeing of individuals and their communities.
Most of the users start attending the activities due to depression or unwanted loneliness. A study was conducted together with the university of Complutense that showed there is a correlation between loneliness and depression. The self-assessments done in the garden have shown that 30% of the people felt less lonely after attending the garden.
We would like to point out two noteworthy cases from the garden: A man with agoraphobia who had been going to a psychologist for several years, after a year of going to the garden is starting to go out with friends, even looking for a job. Another woman of 88 year of age came due to loneliness. After a few months she formed a habit of going out for coffee after each activity and having breakfast on Saturdays with members of the group.
Furthermore, a big impact has been on the health of the users, keeping them physically and emotionally stronger. The positive impact has been so successful that primary healthcare refers their patients to the garden, and we are an example in the guidebook to promote “healthy city” of the health ministry. Moreover, during Covid we were happy to see that none of the elders got covid during the first wave of the pandemic.
Finally, Cosladas Therapeutical Garden has been a pioneering project that has allowed us to create a methodology and design that works and can be replicated. As a result, the design has been reproduced through the Erasmus+ project in Germany and Greece. It is an example that advocates for the benefits of therapeutical gardens on the wellbeing of individuals and their communities.
How Citizens benefit
In the garden, we focus on mental health and supporting people with disabilities such as autism, Parkinson's, fibromyalgia, and Alzheimer's. 75% of the regular users of the garden are the elderly that come to benefit from active ageing, and work on their mental health. The other 25% of regular users come from associations of people with severe disabilities.
Civil society are the customers of the garden. They arrive to the garden through 4 sources:
• Social Services: Social services role is of funder and executer. When social services detect an urgent need in an individual, they offer them the garden where they benefit from regular and ongoing support.
• Primary Care and Psychiatry: People with depression or despondency that are not able to get help in the health system due to overbooking (people have to wait 7-15 month to get appointments with a psychologist) are sent to the garden where they find rapid care, providing follow-up and monitoring of their mood and mental health.
• Community: Anyone can approach the garden at any time seeking to improve their wellbeing without having to declare their age or disability. Here, no one needs to disclose their condition to ask for help.
• Associations and special education centers: Associations are mostly individuals with disabilities. We offer professional guidance in a familiar and welcoming environment.
The users themselves contribute to the ongoing development and maintenance of the garden, leaving a significant mark in the process. They shape its environment by engaging in activities such as tending to plants, recycling, planting new greenery, and maintaining the space, leaving a positive impact on both the garden and their own well-being.
Civil society are the customers of the garden. They arrive to the garden through 4 sources:
• Social Services: Social services role is of funder and executer. When social services detect an urgent need in an individual, they offer them the garden where they benefit from regular and ongoing support.
• Primary Care and Psychiatry: People with depression or despondency that are not able to get help in the health system due to overbooking (people have to wait 7-15 month to get appointments with a psychologist) are sent to the garden where they find rapid care, providing follow-up and monitoring of their mood and mental health.
• Community: Anyone can approach the garden at any time seeking to improve their wellbeing without having to declare their age or disability. Here, no one needs to disclose their condition to ask for help.
• Associations and special education centers: Associations are mostly individuals with disabilities. We offer professional guidance in a familiar and welcoming environment.
The users themselves contribute to the ongoing development and maintenance of the garden, leaving a significant mark in the process. They shape its environment by engaging in activities such as tending to plants, recycling, planting new greenery, and maintaining the space, leaving a positive impact on both the garden and their own well-being.
Physical or other transformations
It refers to a physical transformation of the built environment (hard investment)
Innovative character
The senses therapeutical garden stands as a pioneering beacon of inclusivity, redefining the boundaries of traditional therapy and recreation. Its innovation lies in its ability to seamlessly integrate individuals from diverse abilities, and ages, fostering a sense of belonging and community.
Traditionally, if you are an active elder, you have many alternatives (dancing, swimming, book-clubs, etc.). However, if you have a problem such as having difficulty getting out, depression, unwanted loneliness, the other solution is to go to the health care system. The health care system can offer physical help in your home, but for mental health, it can take 7-15 months to get a psychiatry appointment, and then the follow-up appointments are spread out with a month or more in between.
Unlike conventional therapeutic settings, this garden provides a nurturing environment that allows us to take part in changing an individual’s daily routine and constantly monitor the individual's progress. We do this through creating routines, weekly follow-ups and yearly evaluations.
The nurturing environment is created by the natural setting, the professional help, and the creation of new focuses of interest through the activities that take place in the garden. This environment does not put pressure on the individual. Nature acts as a soothing distraction, enabling them to address their challenges constructively. Moreover, this setting fosters connections with others who share similar experiences, emphasizing the reassuring realization that one is not alone.
By combining a person-centered monitoring with tailored activities, the healing power of nature, and the sense of community, the therapeutical garden offers a more holistic, progressive, and inclusive approach to wellbeing and inclusivity that set it apart from conventional methods.
Traditionally, if you are an active elder, you have many alternatives (dancing, swimming, book-clubs, etc.). However, if you have a problem such as having difficulty getting out, depression, unwanted loneliness, the other solution is to go to the health care system. The health care system can offer physical help in your home, but for mental health, it can take 7-15 months to get a psychiatry appointment, and then the follow-up appointments are spread out with a month or more in between.
Unlike conventional therapeutic settings, this garden provides a nurturing environment that allows us to take part in changing an individual’s daily routine and constantly monitor the individual's progress. We do this through creating routines, weekly follow-ups and yearly evaluations.
The nurturing environment is created by the natural setting, the professional help, and the creation of new focuses of interest through the activities that take place in the garden. This environment does not put pressure on the individual. Nature acts as a soothing distraction, enabling them to address their challenges constructively. Moreover, this setting fosters connections with others who share similar experiences, emphasizing the reassuring realization that one is not alone.
By combining a person-centered monitoring with tailored activities, the healing power of nature, and the sense of community, the therapeutical garden offers a more holistic, progressive, and inclusive approach to wellbeing and inclusivity that set it apart from conventional methods.
Disciplines/knowledge reflected
The disciplines that worked together for this project were: Occupational therapy, Horticultural therapy, Landscape architecture, Universal design, and Social anthropology. The way these disciplines interacted was as follows:
The first thing that was done was to decide the therapeutic objectives for the population in the aim of health prevention. These were: physical activity, sensory stimulation, therapeutic agriculture, and working on collective memory (reminiscence), which are reflected in the four modules of the garden. This step was done with universal design and social anthropology which stated the needs of society, which was a growing ageing population.
Once decided the objectives to work on prevention, with the knowledge of what was important to include based on the studies made in Alnarp (which elements, plants, surfaces, etc.) a first spatial model was designed by universal design. From Alnarp, we could get inspiration, and know which elements play an important role and which don’t. Then, universal design met with occupational therapists to see how they work, what necessities the people attending the garden have, and therefore what adaptations are needed. These adaptations were then included in the design giving a more detailed view of the modules.
Once having a clear first draft of the design the landscape architects took over and created the final design with all the details (the material and plants used, etc.). Here we also consulted the ONCE foundation, as mentioned above, for accessibility and regulatory advice. Once the garden was built the operations of the garden which consists in the activities are fully managed by Occupational therapists, horticultural gardener, and a physical education instructor.
This multi-disciplinary team has not only created an outdoor space fit for the purpose, it has also considered a highly sensitive environment that includes a long lasting sustainable service including different departments in the municipality.
The first thing that was done was to decide the therapeutic objectives for the population in the aim of health prevention. These were: physical activity, sensory stimulation, therapeutic agriculture, and working on collective memory (reminiscence), which are reflected in the four modules of the garden. This step was done with universal design and social anthropology which stated the needs of society, which was a growing ageing population.
Once decided the objectives to work on prevention, with the knowledge of what was important to include based on the studies made in Alnarp (which elements, plants, surfaces, etc.) a first spatial model was designed by universal design. From Alnarp, we could get inspiration, and know which elements play an important role and which don’t. Then, universal design met with occupational therapists to see how they work, what necessities the people attending the garden have, and therefore what adaptations are needed. These adaptations were then included in the design giving a more detailed view of the modules.
Once having a clear first draft of the design the landscape architects took over and created the final design with all the details (the material and plants used, etc.). Here we also consulted the ONCE foundation, as mentioned above, for accessibility and regulatory advice. Once the garden was built the operations of the garden which consists in the activities are fully managed by Occupational therapists, horticultural gardener, and a physical education instructor.
This multi-disciplinary team has not only created an outdoor space fit for the purpose, it has also considered a highly sensitive environment that includes a long lasting sustainable service including different departments in the municipality.
Methodology used
The methodology and the design go hand in hand; therefore, we shall start describing the design.
The design is a modular design. It is made of four modules:
- The sensory module: A low-effort zone with sensory stimulation elements such as sensory planters and water elements
- The loop module: An area for intense effort, through a walking circuit and elements that allow exercising psychomotor skills.
- Horticulture module. It provides psychomotor and sensory stimulation (tactile and olfactory) and helps to reinforce the feeling of usefulness.
- Reminiscence module: Area with various cultural and historical elements to stimulate memory and promote conversation and communication. Cognitive stimulation.
The methodology is based on the nature on which the activities are built. All therapies are connected to the garden and the natural changes that arise during the year in nature. For this reason, it is necessary that there are very different species that maintain some kind of interest during all months of the year (see additional documents for Year long interest). Depending on the plants of interest in each season, the garden's schedule and calendar is planned. Each week has a theme that is adapted to the groups in the garden and their therapeutic objectives.
In order to have a person-centered focus, all activities are done in small groups of 2-8 people. Each group/session has a specific objective and is always guided by a professional. The session are 45 minutes, ones or twice a week. Evaluations are done two times a year, whilst reports a done monthly to Social Services.
The design is a modular design. It is made of four modules:
- The sensory module: A low-effort zone with sensory stimulation elements such as sensory planters and water elements
- The loop module: An area for intense effort, through a walking circuit and elements that allow exercising psychomotor skills.
- Horticulture module. It provides psychomotor and sensory stimulation (tactile and olfactory) and helps to reinforce the feeling of usefulness.
- Reminiscence module: Area with various cultural and historical elements to stimulate memory and promote conversation and communication. Cognitive stimulation.
The methodology is based on the nature on which the activities are built. All therapies are connected to the garden and the natural changes that arise during the year in nature. For this reason, it is necessary that there are very different species that maintain some kind of interest during all months of the year (see additional documents for Year long interest). Depending on the plants of interest in each season, the garden's schedule and calendar is planned. Each week has a theme that is adapted to the groups in the garden and their therapeutic objectives.
In order to have a person-centered focus, all activities are done in small groups of 2-8 people. Each group/session has a specific objective and is always guided by a professional. The session are 45 minutes, ones or twice a week. Evaluations are done two times a year, whilst reports a done monthly to Social Services.
How stakeholders are engaged
The design was done by Jardines Terapéuticos Palmlöf. It was based on the northern design used in Alnarp, a rehabilitation garden in Sweden with scientific studies that show clear improvements of reduced symptoms of burnout, depression, anxiety, and stress-related symptoms of the users, but also reduced sick leave and healthcare consumption.
La Fundación ONCE (Organización Nacional de Ciegos Españoles) is a Spanish non-profit organization that focuses on promoting the social inclusion, equal opportunities, and comprehensive accessibility of people with disabilities, primarily visual impairments. This organization, providing their expertise, helped with the design of the orientation and accessibility of the garden, and ensured it followed all regulations.
In terms of implementation, one key stakeholder was a former minister of health that acknowledged the project and presented it to the municipality of Madrid and Coslada. It was an added value since she was a recognized person in the political sphere.
Othe key components that helped to jump start the implementation of the garden were:
- Social services had conducted a "friendly city" diagnostic study with the WHO (world health organization) guidelines on Coslada. In this study the elderly had asked for public outdoor spaces, accessible to them. This created the need.
- The departments of Environment and Urban planning of the municipality of Coslada were responsible for deciding where to locate the garden. They were the ones who made the decision to remove the cemetery and therefore wanted to give something meaningful back to the people of Coslada. This created a purpose. They also supported the project by taking the decision to make a safer and wider pedestrian walk along the garden to improve accessibility.
From there, the municipality went through the public tender process and Social Services financed the project.
La Fundación ONCE (Organización Nacional de Ciegos Españoles) is a Spanish non-profit organization that focuses on promoting the social inclusion, equal opportunities, and comprehensive accessibility of people with disabilities, primarily visual impairments. This organization, providing their expertise, helped with the design of the orientation and accessibility of the garden, and ensured it followed all regulations.
In terms of implementation, one key stakeholder was a former minister of health that acknowledged the project and presented it to the municipality of Madrid and Coslada. It was an added value since she was a recognized person in the political sphere.
Othe key components that helped to jump start the implementation of the garden were:
- Social services had conducted a "friendly city" diagnostic study with the WHO (world health organization) guidelines on Coslada. In this study the elderly had asked for public outdoor spaces, accessible to them. This created the need.
- The departments of Environment and Urban planning of the municipality of Coslada were responsible for deciding where to locate the garden. They were the ones who made the decision to remove the cemetery and therefore wanted to give something meaningful back to the people of Coslada. This created a purpose. They also supported the project by taking the decision to make a safer and wider pedestrian walk along the garden to improve accessibility.
From there, the municipality went through the public tender process and Social Services financed the project.
Global challenges
Our project addresses the following global challenges:
Firstly, in the face of an ageing society, where most developed countries have a reversed population pyramid, these kinds of gardens provide a nurturing environment that works to keep the elderly active and socially engaged so that entry into dependency is delayed.
Secondly, it combats ageism by creating an inclusive space where individuals of all ages are valued and respected, fostering a sense of community and mutual understanding. Through intergenerational activities, and being seen, these gardens bridge generational gaps, promoting empathy and combating stereotypes associated with different age groups.
Thirdly, in the context of mental health challenges, the therapeutic garden offer a sanctuary for individuals dealing with stress, anxiety, or depression. Nature therapy, horticultural activities, and the calming environment, guided by a professional, helps alleviate mental health issues and promote emotional resilience.
Additionally, the therapeutic garden addresses the problem of marginalization by providing a safe space for marginalized communities, including people with disabilities and mental health conditions. These gardens empower individuals by offering them opportunities to actively participate, fostering a sense of belonging and social inclusion.
Lastly, therapeutical gardens contribute to mitigating the loss of green spaces in an urban area. By transforming underutilized or neglected spaces into vibrant, green sanctuaries, these gardens enhance urban biodiversity, improve air quality, and provide a respite from the concrete jungle. This, in turn, promotes environmental awareness and sustainable living practices, addressing broader ecological challenges faced by urban areas.
Firstly, in the face of an ageing society, where most developed countries have a reversed population pyramid, these kinds of gardens provide a nurturing environment that works to keep the elderly active and socially engaged so that entry into dependency is delayed.
Secondly, it combats ageism by creating an inclusive space where individuals of all ages are valued and respected, fostering a sense of community and mutual understanding. Through intergenerational activities, and being seen, these gardens bridge generational gaps, promoting empathy and combating stereotypes associated with different age groups.
Thirdly, in the context of mental health challenges, the therapeutic garden offer a sanctuary for individuals dealing with stress, anxiety, or depression. Nature therapy, horticultural activities, and the calming environment, guided by a professional, helps alleviate mental health issues and promote emotional resilience.
Additionally, the therapeutic garden addresses the problem of marginalization by providing a safe space for marginalized communities, including people with disabilities and mental health conditions. These gardens empower individuals by offering them opportunities to actively participate, fostering a sense of belonging and social inclusion.
Lastly, therapeutical gardens contribute to mitigating the loss of green spaces in an urban area. By transforming underutilized or neglected spaces into vibrant, green sanctuaries, these gardens enhance urban biodiversity, improve air quality, and provide a respite from the concrete jungle. This, in turn, promotes environmental awareness and sustainable living practices, addressing broader ecological challenges faced by urban areas.
Learning transferred to other parties
The Senses therapeutical garden has been the first of its kind in Spain and has been set as reference for other therapeutical gardens. Both the design and the methodology can, and have been, replicated in other regions of Spain and Europe.
- The design: The modular design is easily replicated but needs to be adapted to the culture and climate. 70% of the design is reusable for a new project. In Spain 17 built gardens have been replicated based on this design (9 in the Community of Madrid and 8 in other regions). Together with the Erasmus plus project called Healing Gardener, we have made a manual of the design. The garden has then been replicated in Greece and Germany.
- The methodology: The method has been studied and developed during the 5 years, birthing into a patented methodology, easily replicable in a garden with this design. The methodology includes 180 activity and therapy sheets applicable in the therapeutic garden and classifiable by time of year and therapeutic objectives, offering more than 30 therapies per module.
Both the design and the methodology have been adapted in the case of Coslada to the different groups of beneficiaries specific to this community. The majority group being the elderly. However, the design and methodology encompasses mental health at any age and therefore all the aforementioned groups (Alzheimer, cognitive disability, depression) and is therefore easily adaptable to any of these groups.
- The design: The modular design is easily replicated but needs to be adapted to the culture and climate. 70% of the design is reusable for a new project. In Spain 17 built gardens have been replicated based on this design (9 in the Community of Madrid and 8 in other regions). Together with the Erasmus plus project called Healing Gardener, we have made a manual of the design. The garden has then been replicated in Greece and Germany.
- The methodology: The method has been studied and developed during the 5 years, birthing into a patented methodology, easily replicable in a garden with this design. The methodology includes 180 activity and therapy sheets applicable in the therapeutic garden and classifiable by time of year and therapeutic objectives, offering more than 30 therapies per module.
Both the design and the methodology have been adapted in the case of Coslada to the different groups of beneficiaries specific to this community. The majority group being the elderly. However, the design and methodology encompasses mental health at any age and therefore all the aforementioned groups (Alzheimer, cognitive disability, depression) and is therefore easily adaptable to any of these groups.
Keywords
Community
Nature
Health
Belonging
Professional service
