Post-Occupancy Evaluation of Therapeutic Gardens in a Multi-Level Care Facility for the Aged

A post-occupancy evaluation of eight therapeutic gardens at a multi-level care facility was conducted. Staff, volunteers, and families of residents were surveyed, and residents were interviewed. Of the 190 participants, 96.5% either strongly liked or liked the gardens. More than 80% believed that four of the five overall design goals of the gardens were achieved. However, participants' evaluations of specific garden features varied, and staff members were more critical than others. About 75% said the money to build the gardens was well-spent. About 20% of users offered extra comments. Implications for the planning of therapeutic gardens are discussed.