Therapeutic hobbies can significantly contribute to our overall well-being as we age. For seniors looking to boost their mental health, gardening is one hobby worth pursuing. In this Senior Helpers blog post, we explore the benefits of gardening, especially on the mental health and quality of life of seniors. Whether you are a seasoned green thumb or just learning about the joys of nurturing plants, gardening might just be the thing to help you flourish.
Improve Mood
One of the most immediate benefits of gardening is its ability to improve mood. Spending time outdoors, surrounded by the beauty of nature, and tending to plants significantly increase levels of serotonin and dopamine – often referred to as the "feel-good" hormones.
Seniors often notice a remarkable improvement in their mood and overall mental health after working in the garden. The vibrant colors and pleasant scents bring surprising joy and offer a natural form of therapy. Try planting flowers like lavender or marigolds. They are known for their calming effects and delightful aromas.
Reduce Stress
Gardening isn't just a mood booster. It is also a proven stress reducer. In fact, "horticultural therapy" has emerged as an increasingly popular therapeutic technique that utilizes gardening and plant care to help individuals cope with stress and anxiety.
Research has shown that engaging in gardening activities can decrease cortisol levels, the body's primary stress hormone, and help clear the mind. Seniors looking for ways to alleviate stress can start small by tending to a mini herb garden or by creating a peaceful outdoor space filled with soothing elements like a small fountain or wind chimes.
Improve Cognitive Function
Another amazing benefit of gardening is its potential to maintain and even improve cognitive function in seniors. Gardening requires planning, problem-solving, and learning about various plants and gardening techniques, all of which can help keep the mind sharp.
A study by the University of Exeter and King's College London found that gardening can reduce the risk of dementia by an astounding 36%. To reap the cognitive benefits of gardening, try designing a garden layout, researching different plant species, and experimenting with various gardening methods.
Increase Social Interaction
Gardening can also serve as a gateway to social interaction. By joining a gardening club or participating in community garden projects, seniors can connect with like-minded individuals and cultivate new friendships.
This increased social interaction provides emotional support and wards off feelings of loneliness and isolation. Joining a local gardening group is a great way to improve gardening skills and find a supportive network of friends who share a common passion. Seek out local gardening workshops or volunteer opportunities at nearby community gardens.
Boost Self-Esteem
Gardening provides seniors with a unique sense of accomplishment. By setting goals and seeing those goals come to fruition, seniors enjoy a boost in self-esteem and experience a strong sense of purpose.
It makes sense to be realistic when setting gardening goals, but also don't be afraid to challenge yourself. Growing a specific type of plant or designing a small themed garden can be incredibly rewarding for seniors. Seniors with mobility issues can place benches in the shade or consider designing an easy-care senior garden.
Senior Helpers Can Help With Gardening Tasks
With the numerous benefits of gardening, seniors in the Chino, Corona, Chino Hills, and San Bernardino County areas can enjoy the upsides of incorporating this activity into their routine. If you need support or resources to get started, Senior Helpers provides a comprehensive list of quality, in-home senior care services, tailored fit to best serve the unique needs of seniors and their families. Reach out to Senior Helpers Inland Empire today to learn more!