On fertile ground: An initial evaluation of green care farms in the United States.
Green care farms (GCF) provide unique opportunities to persons with disabilities to engage in meaningful and therapeutic activities in farm settings. In this pilot study, the researchers examined the feasibility and impact of the first GCF in the United States. Qualitative interviews (N = 19) and thematic analysis were conducted. GCF participants and family members were enthusiastic about participation and identified benefits such as respite and improved mood. Administrators and farmers indicated that GCF challenged the status quo of funding, programming, and farming. Administrators speculated that the future success of GCF relies upon administrative expertise, local relationships, and managing risk and liability.
a School of Social Work , University of Montana , Missoula , Montana , USA.
Keith A
KA
Anderson
a School of Social Work , University of Montana , Missoula , Montana , USA.
Kate P
KP
Chapin
a School of Social Work , University of Montana , Missoula , Montana , USA.
Zachary
Z
Reimer
a School of Social Work , University of Montana , Missoula , Montana , USA.
Gina
G
Siffri
D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D000383:Agriculture / Q000639:trends; D006233:Persons with Disabilities / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D015397:Program Evaluation / Q000379:methods*; D036301:Qualitative Research; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D014481:United States; D000078329:Workforce
Adult day services; green care farms; persons with disabilities