Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens      
  Therapeutic Horticulture Program       
    VIP - Visually Impaired People
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Sue Woolson, a horticultural therapist from Tuscon, Arizona, (on left) has been volunteering for three years in the Therapeutic Horticulture program.

Through the Therapeutic Horticulture Program at the Lerner Garden of the Five Senses, gardening has been introduced to people with conditions ranging from Down Syndrome to cerebral palsy, dementia, and autism.  Four years ago the VIP (Visually Impaired People) group from the Boothbay area began coming to the Lerner Garden of the Five Senses at the Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens to participate in the Therapeutic Horticultural program.


Irene Barber, the instructor of the Therapeutic Horticulture Program at the Garden of the Five Senses at the Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens, explained that the philosophy of the Therapeutic Horticulture program does not center around the finished product.  It is the process of participating in a supportive and nurturing outdoor environment which provides the many benefits.  The individuals involved in the program receive clear instructions and gentle assistance and learn firsthand about the experience and process of working with plants.  Their participation can help in stimulating cognitive activity, reducing stress levels, and encouraging social interaction.