Presbyterian Senior Living : Blog

Ruth MacCarthy

Ruth has worked with residents residing in the Memory Care unit at Cathedral Village for the last 11 years. She also has provided therapeutic horticulture to the entire resident population throughout her tenure with the community. Along with her resident programs, Ruth works with Cathedral’s Director of Environmental Services to oversee the 38-acre campus and manage a 2,800-square-foot greenhouse. She is currently consulting with a sister community, Ware Presbyterian Village, as they plan a tranquility garden on their campus. Ruth has a Bachelor of Science in Horticulture from Temple University and has worked as a horticulturist for 35 years. She has been an instructor for both credit and non-credit programs at the Temple University Ambler campus.

Cathedral Village | Health & Aging | Memory Care

Horticulture and Memory: Planting the Seeds of Well-Being

By: Ruth MacCarthy June 27th, 2024

The evidence supporting Horticulture Therapy is as compelling as it is heartening. A growing body of research consistently demonstrates that the interaction between people and plants promotes well-being in older adults. Horticulture Therapy has been shown to enhance quality of life, reduce apathy, and improve cognitive function in those living with dementia. A recent pilot randomized controlled trial, led by Yi Yang from Taizhou University's Department of Nursing, further underscores the unique value of Horticulture Therapy in memory care settings.

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Senior Living Blog

Ruth MacCarthy

Horticulture and Memory: Planting the Seeds of Well-Being