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Nature-Based Interventions for Adults with Developmental Disabilities: A Scoping Review Centering Autistic Adults

Author

Listed:
  • Megan Dennis

    (School of Health and Social Development, Deakin University, Burwood, VIC 3125, Australia)

  • Claire Henderson-Wilson

    (School of Health and Social Development, Deakin University, Burwood, VIC 3125, Australia)

  • Joanne Watson

    (School of Health and Social Development, Deakin University, Burwood, VIC 3125, Australia)

  • Justin T. Lawson

    (School of Health and Social Development, Deakin University, Burwood, VIC 3125, Australia)

Abstract

Autistic adults often face higher levels of depression, anxiety, and stress and reduced levels of quality of life and employment in comparison to their neurotypical peers. Nature-based interventions (NBIs), which utilize outdoor environments and activities for health and wellbeing outcomes, could provide possibilities to meet these various needs. This study therefore aims to identify the extent of academic literature examining NBIs for autistic adults. A scoping review of peer-reviewed articles published between 1985 and 2023 was conducted. Ten databases were systematically searched, and additional hand searching was conducted. Studies involving substantial engagement with an NBI and involving autistic adults (age ≥ 18), or developmental disability if specific diagnosis was not identified, were included. A total of seven studies were identified; however, three studies did not refer to autism specifically, identifying developmental disability more broadly. NBIs were conducted in a variety of international locations and involved a diverse range of activities and outcomes. While NBIs can provide outcomes relevant to employment, health, and wellbeing, multiple limitations and literature gaps are noted. The findings indicate a strong need for further research specific to autism.

Suggested Citation

  • Megan Dennis & Claire Henderson-Wilson & Joanne Watson & Justin T. Lawson, 2024. "Nature-Based Interventions for Adults with Developmental Disabilities: A Scoping Review Centering Autistic Adults," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 16(3), pages 1-14, January.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jsusta:v:16:y:2024:i:3:p:1077-:d:1327095
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    References listed on IDEAS

    as
    1. Reo Jones & Robin Tarter & Amy Miner Ross, 2021. "Greenspace Interventions, Stress and Cortisol: A Scoping Review," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 18(6), pages 1-21, March.
    2. Craig Lockwood & Andrea C. Tricco, 2020. "Preparing scoping reviews for publication using methodological guides and reporting standards," Nursing & Health Sciences, John Wiley & Sons, vol. 22(1), pages 1-4, March.
    3. Theresa L. Scott & Ying-Ling Jao & Kristen Tulloch & Eloise Yates & Oliver Kenward & Nancy A. Pachana, 2022. "Well-Being Benefits of Horticulture-Based Activities for Community Dwelling People with Dementia: A Systematic Review," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 19(17), pages 1-20, August.
    4. Yang Suk Joy & A-Young Lee & Sin-Ae Park, 2020. "A Horticultural Therapy Program Focused on Succulent Cultivation for the Vocational Rehabilitation Training of Individuals with Intellectual Disabilities," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 17(4), pages 1-13, February.
    5. Giuseppina Spano & Marina D’Este & Vincenzo Giannico & Giuseppe Carrus & Mario Elia & Raffaele Lafortezza & Angelo Panno & Giovanni Sanesi, 2020. "Are Community Gardening and Horticultural Interventions Beneficial for Psychosocial Well-Being? A Meta-Analysis," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 17(10), pages 1-12, May.
    6. Hajira Dambha-Miller & Sukhmani Cheema & Nile Saunders & Glenn Simpson, 2022. "Multiple Long-Term Conditions (MLTC) and the Environment: A Scoping Review," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 19(18), pages 1-10, September.
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