Gardening for seniors

Gardening is a wonderful hobby for people young and old alike.  The mix of the fresh air, vitamin D, and a little sweat reminds us all that we are alive, and part of something larger than ourselves.  Simply the act of grounding oneself by hearing the birds chirping, seeing wildlife around us, and tying something new can be life changing. Gardening includes elements of physical activity that raise our heart rates, encourage stretching and lifting, and help us to maintain overall health.  Studies show that gardening, which can simply mean watering and observing a community garden, can lower blood pressure, increase healing time, and reduce stress.  For individuals with physical restrictions, raised garden beds, and placement of the plants in a shady area can be very important.  If you work with seniors in an assisted living or skilled nursing facility, "gardening club" can be a very rewarding activity to improve your enrichment programming. If you simply are caring for a loved one at home, take time outside, and reap the benefits of a home grown garden!