Articles
The active methods of community farm: how self-confidence and a sense of trust is built by the community farm activities in Japan
Article number
1330_33
Pages
275 – 282
Language
English
Abstract
The case study documents how the ‘green activities’, activities with plants, leads to a sense of individual roles, self-affirmation, and improved health.
The authors observed the community farm in N-city, Japan, where the aging community is a measure issue.
The participating members established the community farm in 2017 out of the unspoiled mountain forest.
The research included the compilation of activity records, data analysis of physical function tests, and semi-structured interviews with members.
The result shows the farming activities effectively improved member’s physical abilities, discovered their purpose in life, and gained a positive interpretation of their past career.
Behind this effect, growing plants and dealing with nature had a strong influence with four reasons: 1) the variety of farm activities contributes to the maintenance of bodily functions; 2) everyday events on the farm increase the community’s cohesiveness; 3) engaging in a complex activity with other members increases attachment and trust; 4) the variety of activities helps members re-interpret their skills and abilities.
In conclusion, the authors argue that engaging in such a variety of farming activities with peers will increase intrinsic motivation to further participate in community activities and give them a chance to gain future aspirations.
In addition, a place where each person can demonstrate their talents will enhance the sense of self-esteem.
The authors observed the community farm in N-city, Japan, where the aging community is a measure issue.
The participating members established the community farm in 2017 out of the unspoiled mountain forest.
The research included the compilation of activity records, data analysis of physical function tests, and semi-structured interviews with members.
The result shows the farming activities effectively improved member’s physical abilities, discovered their purpose in life, and gained a positive interpretation of their past career.
Behind this effect, growing plants and dealing with nature had a strong influence with four reasons: 1) the variety of farm activities contributes to the maintenance of bodily functions; 2) everyday events on the farm increase the community’s cohesiveness; 3) engaging in a complex activity with other members increases attachment and trust; 4) the variety of activities helps members re-interpret their skills and abilities.
In conclusion, the authors argue that engaging in such a variety of farming activities with peers will increase intrinsic motivation to further participate in community activities and give them a chance to gain future aspirations.
In addition, a place where each person can demonstrate their talents will enhance the sense of self-esteem.
Authors
M. Miyake, F. Asano
Keywords
elderly, green activities, self-esteem, career, sense of purpose
Online Articles (34)