We have dreamed of building a fully wheelchair accessible garden for horticultural therapy at Chaparral House for many years. Last October, we began transforming our outdoor patio area in preparation. The foundation was poured, and we now have more than double the available space for gardening activities. Over the past 4 years, Chaparral House has raised over $35,000 towards this project.
Our plan is to build custom wheelchair accessible raised garden beds this winter with the help of our maintenance staff. By spring, we hope to be ready to offer hands on gardening activities for our elders. Once construction is complete, there will be work spaces for up to 8 elders who can experience the benefits of horticultural therapy during their stay at Chaparral House. 90% of our residents are wheelchair users who would be unable to garden without this adapted set up.
This project will cost $45,000 and we have already raised $35,000 over the past 4 years. Each station will cost roughly $5,625 after all expenses are considered. In the years to come, countless elders will be able to enjoy this space and reconnect with nature as they heal. Join us in our mission to re-imagine what it means to age and heal in Berkeley!
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What is Horticultural Therapy?
Horticultural therapy is the use of plants and plant-based activities to promote health and well-being. It typically involves adapting and modifying familiar tasks to support people who would otherwise be unable to garden. Research shows that working with plants can bring many benefits for elders such as stress reduction, improved sleep, lowered blood pressure, improved memory and attention, and pain reduction.
Examples of Adapted Garden Beds for Elders
