Gardening for Wellness in Senior Living

 


Gardening holds a special place in the hearts of many seniors, and for good reason. It’s not just about cultivating plants, it’s a pathway to a healthier, more fulfilling life. At Lester Senior Living in Morris County, we recognize the profound wellness benefits that gardening offers to our residents. Here, we’ll dive into the physical, mental, and social advantages of gardening for seniors, along with some handy beginner tips for those eager to embark on this wellness journey.

Physical Benefits of Older Adults Who Garden

Engaging in gardening tasks requires seniors to get moving and keep moving! From tending to soil to watering plants, every action contributes to enhanced physical well-being. By embracing gardening, seniors can bolster physical independence, stave off conditions like osteoporosis and heart disease, and even mitigate the risk of Type II diabetes and certain cancers.

Positive Mental Aspects of Seniors Gardening

Nurturing a garden is a breeding ground for positive mindfulness. Research suggests that immersing oneself in nature can alleviate stress, lower blood pressure, and foster a sense of tranquility. On top of this, gardening has been linked to a reduced risk of Alzheimer’s disease, depression, and anxiety. Strategically picking which plants to grow and designing the look of a garden serves as a canvas for creativity, allowing seniors to express themselves. Older adults who are able to properly express themselves through creative outlets tend to have a stronger state of mind. In short, a thriving garden is equal to a thriving mind.

Seniors Who Garden Have Stronger Social Connections

While anyone can garden successfully by themselves, this is a great opportunity to bond with someone else. It’s a fairly common passion that can easily foster new connections. Whether participating in a weekly gardening club activity at a senior living community or inviting friends for a daily stroll among the flowers, older adults can develop meaningful relationships through gardening.

Beginner Tips for Senior Gardeners

If you or a loved one would like to start their gardening wellness journey, there are a few helpful tips we’d like to share:

Choose the Right Location:

Opt for a sunny spot with easy access to water if you’re starting a garden from scratch. If space is limited, consider creating a container garden indoors or in your senior living apartment by a sunny window sill.

Select Suitable Plants:

Choosing the right plants is half the battle. While you may love roses, this plant doesn’t thrive in areas that don’t have constant sun coverage. If you begin with a container garden, herbs like basil and mint are excellent choices. Plus, they can pack extra flavor the next time you cook!

Invest in Good Soil:

Quality soil lays the foundation for a flourishing garden. Your plants will thrive if your soil is nutrient-rich and well-drained.

Water Plants Often:

Regular watering is crucial for most plants’ health. Keep your garden easily accessible to ensure consistent hydration, and use the knuckle test to gauge soil moisture.

Senior Activities at Lester Senior Living

Gardening isn’t just a hobby. It’s a wellness practice that nourishes all aspects of a person – body, mind, and soul. At our independent living community in Morris County, we champion a diverse array of activities to enrich our senior residents. Whether it’s gardening, yoga, mahjong, or any other pursuit, we strive to empower seniors to lead vibrant, fulfilling lives that put their health first.

To learn more about the exciting senior activities offered at Lester Senior Living in Morris County, New Jersey, contact us today or visit our website at:  https://jchcorp.org

Original Source: https://jchcorp.org/gardening-for-wellness-in-senior-living/

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