The Therapeutic Health Benefits of Gardening for Seniors

There is something about planting seeds and helping them grow that brings joy to oneself. The added benefits of the abundant fruits and vegetables packed with nutrients enhance our health and well-being. Horticulture therapy is one of the most common therapy programs offered in senior care. According to the Journal of Environmental Reseach and Public Health, “Due to a rapidly aging population in the world, it is increasingly pertinent to promote successful aging strategies which are cost-effective, easily accessible, and more likely to be acceptable to the elderly.” This therapy program has helped enhance the health of many individuals as well as reduce depression, anxiety, stress, and body mass index. Here’s why gardening is so beneficial for seniors.

Reduces Stress

Horticulture therapy is known to have great effects on our moods and has the ability to reduce stress. The reason behind this is because of the harmless bacteria that live in the soil. This bacteria, Mycobacterium vaccae, increases serotonin levels in the brain which controls and improves cognitive functions and mood. The increased functionality of the mind is one of the most invaluable benefits that come from getting your hands dirty in the garden.

Improves Socialization

Gardening provides a fun way to promote socialization with your local community. An embellished garden can encourage residents to spend more time outdoors as well as propel them to come together and help build more beautiful gardens. Sharing a garden with one another can increase socialization which is especially important for older adults who suffer from social isolation. The abundance of perks to the life of our seniors and the community is one of the main reasons why we urge them to get into gardening.

Promotes Healthy Eating

Not only does planting fruits and vegetables benefit seniors but, they also provide a great way to eat healthily. Having your own garden yields the opportunity to avoid store-bought foods that may have had pesticides sprayed on them. Horticulture therapy also provides seniors with many versatile meals that are heart-healthy, diabetic-friendly, and vegetarian. If you would like to learn more about the holistic and nutritious benefits horticulture therapy provides for seniors, read our article, Health Benefits of Horticulture Therapy.

At Spring Hills Senior Communities, we are proud to offer horticulture therapy programs for our residents to reap all the benefits it has to offer. The health benefits on the mind, body, and spirit of an older adult make horticulture therapy an invaluable aspect of an effective program for senior care. Our Horticulture therapy program offers a variety of benefits to an individual’s life as well as provide individuals with an enhanced sense of purpose and community. To learn more about our horticulture therapy program, click here.