Curriculum Design, Feasibility, and Acceptability of a Synchronous Online Indoor-Gardening Social Group: A Pilot-Project

Insufficient social connectedness and social isolation can result from various factors such as living in a rural location, access to transportation or, more recently, the Covid-19 pandemic. older adults who lack opportunities for positive social interaction are at risk of negatively affecting their well-being by exacerbating chronic conditions and creating feelings of loneliness. Problem: Gardening is an established leisure-time activity for older adults that can provide opportunities for social interact ion. However, for community-dwelling adults who share this interest but unable to attend in-person groups, there is a lack of virtual gardening groups available for this hobby. Purpose: The purpose of this project is to fill a gap in current programming offered for older adults with two specific aims, to design the curriculum for a synchronous online indoor-gardening social group, and to test the feasibility and acceptability of a virtual gardening social group. Results: Qualitative data support the feasibility and acceptability of a virtual gardening social group. The small sample size and the self-perceived positive social connectedness of the participants created a ceiling effect making it inconclusive as to its effects on one's sense of belonging. Conclusion: This project was successful in providing meaningful social interactions and participants felt the program was effective and a beneficial use of their time. While not perfect in execution or design, positive group feedback supports the viability of an online gardening group.