Project Grow: Establishing an Intergenerational Falls Prevention Gardening Programme

The key purpose of the study is to provide and test an intergenerational gardening project as a choice for about 30 IF \& BHS patients who would otherwise decline exercise interventions. Patients previously assessed by Wandsworth Integrated Falls \& Bone Health Services have identified gardening as an enjoyable alternative to exercise classes. Gardening sessions will take place weekly (aiming for 3 groups with 10 patients and 2-4 students and/or staff members of the University of Roehampton). Through engaging patients in gardening activities the study seeks to achieve 4 main aims: 1. Increase physical activity levels; 2. improve mental and physical health outcomes; 3. foster self-efficacy and social connectedness; 4. reduce the risk of falls. The at falls risk population will benefit by engaging in a meaningful activity (designed and supported by clinicians and aided by students and staff members) which delivers on the core principles of strength, power, balance and coordination.