Electroencephalography (EEG)-Based Neural Emotional Response to Flower Arrangements (FAs) on Normal Elderly (NE) and Cognitively Impaired Elderly (CIE)

Background: The purpose of this study is to explore the differences and similarities of EEG -based neural emotional response toward flower arrangements (FAs) between the normal elderly (NE) and cognitively impaired elderly (CIE) in arranging flowers. Methods: The study participants included 16 elderly individuals: eight elderly people with normal cognitive function and eight elderly people with cognitive dysfunction. They were divided into two groups to arrange flowers, and six mood indicators (Engagement, Excitation, Focus, Interest, Relaxation and Stress) were measured with EEG before and after the experiment. Results: The similarities were that there was no significant difference in Excitement, Relaxation and Stress between pre-test and post-test for NE and CIE. The differences were that there was a significant difference on Engagement and Interest in CIE, and they both increased, but there was no difference with respect to them in NE. While there was a significant difference on the Focus of NE, it was decreased, but there was no difference for it with respect to CIE. Conclusions: A similarity on EEG-Based Neural Emotional Responses to flower arrangements between NE and CIE was that they both felt relaxation. The differences were that the Focus of NE decreased and the Interest and Engagement of CIE increased. CIEs were more interested and engaged in FAs.