Research & reports
Peer-reviewed research and reports on community urban agriculture, food education, composting, welfare and more.
Theme
Critical findings
25 results
Urban Care Farming to Enhance Quality of Life Among Older Adults
2026Chen, C., Lam, J., Shi, Z., Akksilp, K., Aw, S., Chong, M.F.F. · JMIR Research Protocols · Asia
Randomized trial (n=137) of 24-week urban care farming program for older adults in Singapore. Measures quality of life, cognitive function, psychosocial well-being, and inflammatory biomarkers.
ElderlyWelfareHealthCommunityEnvironmental and Social Relationship Changes Through Self-Governance Transition in a Rooftop Community Garden of Senior Residential Living Lab
2026YeunSook Lee, Jaehyun Park, Yumi Hwang · Journal of the Korean housing association · South Korea
A longitudinal qualitative case study in a South Korean senior public rental housing community examined the first transition to self-governance in a rooftop community garden. The transition led to ecological and sensory degradation, including disrupted ecological rhythm and reduced olfactory comfort, and social fragmentation with disputes and leadership frictions. These findings revealed limits of participation-heavy models without codified rules or procedural safeguards, indicating that effective self-governance requires visible rules, procedural fairness, embedded learning, and mediation structures.
Governance failureCommunityElderlyBiodiversityPerceived Benefits and Barriers of Gardening Among Urban Older Adults: A Chinese Perspective
2025Lin · Journal of Community & Applied Social Psychology · China
A study examining the perceived benefits and barriers of gardening among urban older adults from a Chinese perspective.
ElderlyHealthPeningkatan Efektivitas Urban Farming untuk Meningkatkan Nilai Ekonomi dan Kesehatan Lansia Kelompok Tani Kurnia Lestari Kota Malang
2025Yati Sri Hayati, Sitawati Sitawati, Annisa Wuri Kartika, Niko Dima Kristianingrum, Sri Soenarti, Velinda Dewi Lutfiana, Risma Dwi Rahmawati, Herdyana Lintang Sari, Tria Armannaena, Nurliza Prita Arfiati · Kontribusi Jurnal Penelitian dan Pengabdian Kepada Masyarakat · Indonesia (Malang)
This study evaluated whether interventions of knowledge and community empowerment could improve the effectiveness of urban farming for the elderly in the Kurnia Lestari farmer group in Malang City, Indonesia. Intervention activities were conducted using a community empowerment model, including agricultural assistance, health education, ergonomic exercises, and health checks. Results showed an average increase of 5 kg in agricultural products per harvest due to changes in planting media and land settings. The activity is concluded to enhance the economic value of urban elderly groups through increased product and harvest quality, and improved quality of life for the elderly.
ElderlyHealthEconomicsCommunityAKASIA Program as an Environmentally Based Elderly Empowerment in the Anyelir 2 Harjamukti Farmers Group
2025Fanny Shinta Junita, Devy Puspasari Siswaningrum, Nur Rahmi Fajri Yanti, Wendi Gustira · Prospect Jurnal Pemberdayaan Masyarakat · Indonesia (Depok)
This article discusses the AKASIA Program, an elderly empowerment initiative implemented with the Anyelir 2 Farmers Group in Harjamukti Village, Depok, Indonesia. The program supported elderly garden activities using a community empowerment approach, including urban farming training, organic waste processing, cultivation facilities, and ongoing mentoring. Results demonstrated that the program not only provided productive, social, and recreational space for seniors but also significantly improved their happiness, relaxation, and quality of life. Furthermore, it contributed to reducing organic waste and opening economic opportunities through the sale of agricultural products.
ElderlyCommunityOrganic cycleWelfarePenyuluhan Sekolah Lansia Tangguh (Selantang) Mengenai Urban Farming Di Kelurahan Tegal Besar Kecamatan Kaliwates Kabupaten Jember
2025Sri Subekti, Naswa Alfina Zahira, Fahdia Maulita Yuniar, Virliana Titus Valentina, Safa Fayza Olivia Choirunisa, Nanda Permatasari · Akselerasi Luaran Pengabdian Masyarakat · Indonesia (Jember)
The "Sekolah Lansia Tangguh" (Resilient Elderly School) program in Tegal Besar Village, Jember Regency, Indonesia, conducted urban farming outreach for elderly participants. This group-based activity aimed to equip seniors with modern farming skills for limited land, fostering productivity. The program involved material presentation and interactive discussions, with participants showing high enthusiasm for urban farming implementation.
ElderlyFood educationDIYPengembangan Pemasaran Digital Berbasis Media Sosial Instagram Untuk Meningkatkan Daya Jual Hasil Produksi Pada Kelompok Tani Urban Farming “Keputih Bersemi” Kelurahan Keputih, Kecamatan Sukolilo, Kota Surabaya
2024Brilliant Adam Ramadhani, Shalahuddin Fathan, Jessica Putri Margaretta, Putri Wahyu Pebrianti, Ika Sari Tondang, Nuriah Yuliati · Kegiatan Positif Jurnal Hasil Karya Pengabdian Masyarakat · Indonesia (Surabaya)
The Urban Farming Group "Keputih Bersemi" in Keputih, Surabaya, faces challenges in optimally selling and distributing its produce, such as pak choi and lettuce, due to conventional marketing methods. The majority of group members are elderly and unfamiliar with technology, limiting sales and distribution. The abstract suggests that digital marketing via Instagram and WhatsApp could increase visibility and sales.
Economic viabilityCommunityEconomicsElderlyDigital agricultureA Systematic Review of Korean Studies on the Health Effects of Care Farming
2024Minah Baek, Eunseo Jeong, Eunjeong Kang · Academy of Urban Health · South Korea
This systematic review analyzed 19 domestic studies on the health effects of care farming in South Korea, noting an increase in research since 2020 across diverse fields. Horticultural therapy was the most common intervention, with insect, forest, and urban gardening showing positive effects on stress, depression, and cognitive and emotional functions. Recommendations included increased attention from healthcare researchers, standardization of practices, and policy support.
HealthWelfareElderlyCommunityELDERLY EMPOWERMENT THROUGH ACTIVE PARTICIPATION IN INDEPENDENT FOOD BARN
2023Sri Oetami, Bea Anggraini, Dwi Handayani · Abdi Dosen Jurnal Pengabdian Pada Masyarakat · Indonesia (Surabaya)
This community service activity, conducted in the Rungkut Barata residential area of Surabaya, Indonesia, focused on empowering the elderly. The activity disseminated techniques for pot farming, hydroponics, aquaponics, and vertical gardens, with participation from elderly farmer groups. As a result, a vegetable garden was established, and its products were sold to the local elderly group.
ElderlyCommunityFood educationHealthEffect of horticultural therapy on apathy in nursing home residents with dementia: a pilot randomized controlled trial
2022Yang Y., Kwan R.Y.C., Zhai H.M., Xiong Y., Zhao T., Fang K.L., Zhang H.Q. · Aging & Mental Health, 26(4):745-753 · China
A pilot randomized controlled trial allocating 32 nursing home residents with dementia to horticultural therapy or control. Post-intervention, between-group differences in apathy (Apathy Evaluation Scale) and cognition (MMSE) were statistically significant, indicating horticultural therapy may improve apathy in older people with dementia. It supports embedding gardening in elderly welfare and dementia-care programmes.
ElderlyWelfareHealthTherapeutic gardening program effects on mental health and well-being of older adults
2022· International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health · South Korea
A study conducted in Korea from June to November 2021, delivering a 30-session therapeutic gardening program to 111 participants to examine effects on mental health and well-being of older adults.
ElderlyHealthStudy of residents’ willingness to construct community gardens in the post-epidemic era
2022Hua Zheng, Noriko Akita, Fen Zhang · International Review for Spatial Planning and Sustainable Development · China (Wuhan)
This study investigated residents' willingness to construct community gardens in three urbanized residential communities in Wuhan, Hubei Province, China. Based on 382 valid questionnaires, 82.5% of respondents supported community garden construction, while 17.5% did not. Female, elderly, and households with minors showed higher support, but not all supporters were willing to spend money or time.
CommunityHealthElderlyAnalisis Pendekatan A.C.T.O.R.S dalam Pemberdayaan Masyarakat Lansia di Kampung Wonosari 3G (Glintung Go Green) Kota Malang
2022Angelus Vecky Kopong, Siti Kholifah, Sanggar Kanto · Brawijaya Journal of Social Science · Indonesia (Malang City)
This descriptive qualitative study analyzed empowerment strategies for 10 elderly informants in Kampung Wonosari 3G, Malang City, Indonesia, using the A.C.T.O.R.S theory. The research confirmed that strategies focusing on authority, confidence, competence, responsibility, and support led to increased self-respect, self-confidence, and self-reliance among the elderly community. The study suggests urban farming as a change movement to improve the environment in this slum area.
ElderlyCommunityWelfareHealthEnvironment
2022· University of Westminster Press eBooks · Taiwan
This chapter explores society's interaction with the environment through four pieces. A case study from LanCheng, Taiwan, by Shaw-wu Jung, examines how a community garden re-engaged local elderly populations with traditional farming methods. Other pieces analyze food anxiety in Chinese poetry, the historical context of waste separation in China, and the concept of "smart villages" in Maoist science fiction.
CommunityElderlyFood educationLansia dan Pertanian Perkotaan
2021Rini Fitri, Suryani Suryani · Jurnal Ilmiah Respati · Indonesia (Jakarta)
This paper discusses urban agriculture as a solution for elderly individuals to engage in physical activity and reduce depression in limited yard spaces in DKI Jakarta, Indonesia. It highlights that urban farming activities, such as cultivating vegetables, secondary crops, and horticulture, are undertaken by housewives and the elderly. The practice of urban agriculture encourages seniors to express their capabilities, supporting their identity and autonomy, and aims to outline these activities for the elderly.
ElderlyHealthWelfareSchool garden as a learning alternative in the era of COVID-19 pandemic
2021Okti Purwaningsih, Puguh Bintang Pamungkas, Triwahana Triwahana · Abdimas Jurnal Pengabdian Masyarakat Universitas Merdeka Malang · Indonesia (Yogyakarta)
A community service program implemented at SD Model in Ngemplak, Sleman, Yogyakarta, Indonesia, aimed to foster elementary school students' interest in agriculture through the introduction of a School Garden via urban farming. Using presentations with video tutorials and farming modules, the program found that 97.7% of students liked the School Garden activity, and 81.4% felt these activities fostered their interest in agriculture.
Food educationCommunityElderlyEffects of Types of Horticultural Activity on the Physical and Mental State of Elderly Individuals
2020Tu P.-C., Cheng W.-C., Hou P.-C., Chang Y.-S. · International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health · Taiwan
A study in Taiwan with 27 elderly participants (aged 60-76) evaluating four horticultural activities, measuring effects on salivary amylase activity, pulse rate, and mood (POMS), with artistic-creation and food-tasting types showing promise for relaxation and stress reduction.
ElderlyHealthAn Exploration of Crops Listed in Gwanhyuji, an Agricultural Book in the Joseon Dynasty for the Promotion of the Diversity of Urban Gardens
2019In-Kyoung Hong, Young Chae, Sang-Mi Lee, Young-Bin Jung · Journal of people, plants, and environment · South Korea
This study aimed to improve the diversity of urban gardens by identifying suitable crops from "Gwanhyuji," an agricultural book from the Joseon Dynasty. Fifty-three crops were selected based on traditionality, historicity, health functionality, and popularity, and their properties were evenly distributed. The study suggests that applying traditional knowledge to urban agriculture can transform urban gardens into resources offering educational and traditional values, thereby enhancing their diversity and utility.
Heirloom & landraceCommunityHealthWelfareElderly고령자의 건강증진을 위한 지원주택의 공용공간 특성 분석
2017Cho-Hee 성초희Sung, Yeun-Sook 이연숙Lee · 한국실내디자인학회 학술발표대회 논문집 · South Korea (Seoul)
This study analyzed the characteristics of communal spaces in supportive housing for vulnerable elderly, focusing on their role in health promotion. Using the first supportive housing in Seoul, South Korea, as a case, 18 communal spaces, including a rooftop garden, were classified into five purpose types. The research found that communal spaces are largely related to social health, indicating a strong correlation between communal spaces and a sense of coherence for achieving salutogenesis.
ElderlyHealthCommunity도시농업 체험프로그램이 노인의 정신건강에 미치는 영향
2017강현경, 백승준 · · South Korea
This study conducted in South Korea investigated the effect of an urban agriculture experience program on the mental health of seniors over 65 years old. The experiment group, who participated in the program for over six months, showed statistically significantly lower stress scores related to loneliness and lower health-related stress levels compared to the control group, while the control group exhibited significantly higher depression levels. Urban agriculture activities were shown to stabilize sympathetic nerves and activate parasympathetic nerves in the elderly, increasing resistance against stress.
HealthElderlyFood educationEffects of horticulture therapy on nursing home older adults in southern Taiwan
2016· Quality of Life Research · Taiwan
A study in southern Taiwan testing horticulture therapy on nursing home older adults' activities of daily living, happiness, meaning of life, and interpersonal intimacy, with the intervention group receiving weekly one-hour sessions for eight weeks and showing significant improvements.
ElderlyHealth부산 도시농업 활성화의 출발지, 도시농업공원 조성
2013금성근 · BDI 정책포커스 · South Korea
In Busan, South Korea, the necessity of urban agricultural parks is being raised to revitalize urban agriculture and solve urban problems. These parks are expected to expand family park functions, secure urban agriculture support centers, resolve land-use issues, and create leisure spaces and jobs for the elderly. Potential sites include damaged mountainous areas near Sanbok Road, the Nakdong River floodplain, and the former site of the Gangseo Horticultural Experiment Station.
CommunityPolicyElderlyUrban Senior Day Care Center Construction Supported by Vertical Farm
2012Rui Yang · Nanjing Linye Daxue xuebao · China (Nanjing)
This paper explores a new community endowment pattern by integrating vertical farms into urban senior day care centers, contrasting with traditional nursing homes. Focusing on the South Lake Community in Nanjing, China, it examines the specific construction of vertical farm landscapes to address the physical and mental health needs of the elderly in an aging society.
ElderlyWelfareCommunityDigital agriculture以“垂直农场”景观为依托的都市托老所营建
2012王丽蓉, Rui YANG · 南京林业大学学报：人文社会科学版 · China
This article discusses the construction of urban elderly care centers based on "vertical farm" landscapes in China, addressing rapid urbanization and an aging society. It proposes integrating vertical farms into elderly care facilities to offer recreational activities and physical labor, aiming to improve the mental and physical well-being of the elderly. The article explores new community-based elderly care models, drawing on practices in Nanjing's Nanhu community, by introducing a public participation system and green ecological landscape techniques.
ElderlyCommunityHealth수도권 도시민의 도시농업 참여실태
2011박은하, 오충현 · · South Korea (Seoul)
A 2011 study conducted in the Seoul metropolitan area of South Korea analyzed the participation status and demands regarding urban agriculture. The research involved interviews with urban agriculture site operators and participants from June to July 2011, and a survey of 153 general citizens who participated in a pocket garden event on September 3, 2011. The survey covered urban agriculture awareness, participation status, attitudes towards eco-friendly agriculture, produce safety, and activation measures.
CommunityHealthEconomicsElderly