Gardening is a rewarding and enjoyable activity that many older adults embrace, especially in the warmer months.
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The Benefits of Gardening for Seniors
Gardening is a rewarding and enjoyable activity that many older adults embrace, especially in the warmer months.
Beyond being a relaxing and fulfilling pastime, it also offers a surprising number of physical and mental health benefits for seniors.
Here are some great reasons to get active in nature:
A Great Form of Exercise
Gardening involves bending, stretching, and moving, making it a fantastic low-impact workout. In fact, one hour of general gardening can burn 200 to 400 calories!
Improves Nutrition
Growing your own fruits, vegetables, and herbs encourages healthier eating habits and provides fresh, nutrient-rich food.
Strengthens Community Connections
Whether you plant flowers in a backyard or participate in a community garden, gardening helps beautify shared spaces, enhances the environment, and even provides opportunities to donate fresh produce to local food banks.
Boosts Mood & Reduces Stress
Gardening has therapeutic benefits and can promote a positive mindset. Horticultural therapy is widely used to help relieve stress, enhance mental well-being, and improve overall happiness.
Living in a retirement residence is not necessarily a barrier to being an active gardener, as some retirement residences offer access to garden plots as part of programming to promote health and well-being.
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