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Restricted Daily Exposure of Environmental Enrichment: Bridging the Practical Gap from Animal Studies to Human Application

Author

Listed:
  • Nik Nasihah Nik Ramli

    (School of Graduate Studies, Management and Science University, Shah Alam 40100, Selangor, Malaysia)

  • Nurin Amalia Kamarul Sahrin

    (International Medical School, Management and Science University, Shah Alam 40100, Selangor, Malaysia)

  • Siti Nur Atiqah Zulaikah Nasarudin

    (School of Graduate Studies, Management and Science University, Shah Alam 40100, Selangor, Malaysia)

  • Mohamad Hisham Hashim

    (School of Graduate Studies, Management and Science University, Shah Alam 40100, Selangor, Malaysia)

  • Maisarah Abdul Mutalib

    (School of Graduate Studies, Management and Science University, Shah Alam 40100, Selangor, Malaysia)

  • Muhammad Najib Mohamad Alwi

    (International Medical School, Management and Science University, Shah Alam 40100, Selangor, Malaysia)

  • Aswir Abd Rashed

    (Nutrition, Metabolism and Cardiovascular Research Centre, Institute for Medical Research, National Institutes of Health, Ministry of Health, Malaysia, No.1, Jalan Setia Murni U13/52, Seksyen U13 Setia Alam, Shah Alam 40170, Selangor, Malaysia)

  • Rajesh Ramasamy

    (Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Serdang 43400, Selangor, Malaysia)

Abstract

Daily restricted environmental enrichment (REE) refers to limited, structured periods of enrichment aimed at improving both physical and cognitive well-being in animals and humans. This review explores the significance of REE, focusing on studies that investigate 2 and 3 h daily enrichment protocols. Through an analysis of 21 key studies, this paper highlights how even brief periods of REE can lead to substantial improvements in brain plasticity, cognitive function, and stress resilience. The review tracks the evolution of environmental enrichment from early research on enriched environments in animals to modern applications in human rehabilitation, particularly for stroke recovery and mental health treatment. While the traditional approach to environmental enrichment often involves continuous exposure, recent research suggests that restricted daily enrichment can yield comparable benefits, offering a practical, scalable solution for clinical settings. This review underscores the importance of adapting REE for individual needs and developing flexible, home-based programs for broader application.

Suggested Citation

  • Nik Nasihah Nik Ramli & Nurin Amalia Kamarul Sahrin & Siti Nur Atiqah Zulaikah Nasarudin & Mohamad Hisham Hashim & Maisarah Abdul Mutalib & Muhammad Najib Mohamad Alwi & Aswir Abd Rashed & Rajesh Rama, 2024. "Restricted Daily Exposure of Environmental Enrichment: Bridging the Practical Gap from Animal Studies to Human Application," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 21(12), pages 1-16, November.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jijerp:v:21:y:2024:i:12:p:1584-:d:1531319
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