Implementing generationally appropriate activities for persons with dementia is a challenging task. Horticulture therapy (HT) addresses this challenge through the use of plants to facilitate holistic outcomes. Utilizing the model of environmental press, the current study sought to analyse adult day service (ADS) participants' responses to HT as compared to traditional activities.

HT activities were conducted once a week for a half an hour at four different ADS programs over the course of 9 weeks. Observational data were collected during HT and traditional ADS activities using a modified dementia care mapping (DCM) technique. Observers coded predominant behavioural and affectual responses for each participant.

HT activities facilitated higher levels of productive engagement and positive affect and lower levels of non-engagement than did traditional ADS activities. Therefore, HT offers dementia-care staff a viable activity alternative that is well received by clients and inclusive of all interested persons, despite cognitive limitations.

This study was carried out to explore the fit between health and functional characteristics of Day Program participants and the types of program activities they were offered in Day Programs. The subjects were 132 participants from 5 Day Programs in Montreal. Four different participant profile groups were identified using cluster analysis. A classification of program activities was created by a panel of experts. Participation in these activities was studied for each profile group, and compared to recommended activities for such client groups outlined through examination of the literature and consultation with our panel of experts. Results showed only partial correspondence between program activities and participants’ needs. This correspondence seemed higher for individuals with physical health problems or mobility impairments and weaker for those presenting depressive symptoms or cognitive impairments. These results suggest a need to review activity program components and determine ways to match better these with client needs to optimise the benefits of Day Program participation.