The Hidden Benefits of Gardening for Seniors

It’s no surprise that April is National Lawn and Garden Month. Warmer temperatures, longer days, and soft breezes encourage any gardener to head outdoors and work in the dirt. Gardening is a popular hobby among seniors. According to a survey conducted by the National Gardening Association, approximately 40 percent of all home gardeners in the U.S. are over the age of 50. The survey also reports that seniors are one of the fastest-growing demographics of gardeners. The growth of community gardening programs has only allowed seniors to continue to enjoy this leisure pursuit, especially those who have downsized their lawns. 

Although there are a variety of reasons why a senior may pursue gardening, most do so without recognizing the numerous health benefits this hobby provides. Here are four hidden benefits of gardening for seniors. 

Physical Activity 

Gardening involves light to moderate physical activity that can help seniors improve strength, flexibility, and balance. Not only do seniors exert effort while digging and planting, but they also exercise dexterity and hand-eye coordination as they maintain their gardens by putting weeds. Even strolling through local nurseries, such as Brehm’s WonderCreek Nursery or Domann’s Plants, is yet another way gardening increases physical activity in seniors. 

Mental Stimulation 

Gardening provides seniors with a sense of purpose and fulfillment and stimulates cognitive function and creativity. The Dodge County Master Gardener Association offers educational programs, and seniors can also ask a master gardener their gardening questions. The association is also a great place for seniors who love to garden to volunteer and get involved. 

Improved Mood 

Spending time outdoors in nature, surrounded by greenery, and engaged in physical activity, can help seniors boost their mood. It also lowers cortisol levels, the hormone responsible for stress. Regular gardening has been shown to reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety and improve overall physical health. To start improving your mood today, check out a book about gardening at the Beaver Dam Library. 

Social Interaction

Gardening can also be a social activity. It provides seniors opportunities to connect with others, share gardening tips and techniques, and participate in community gardening projects. Seniors who are interested in community gardening can check out the Beaver Dam Community Garden Facebook page, where you can learn more about the program and how you can reserve a garden plot to use this season. Beaver Dam also has an Adopt-a-Park program, which may be perfect for a group of active seniors who are looking for a way to give back to the local community.

If you’re a senior who loves to garden, but it’s becoming more and more challenging to do so, look no further than Visiting Angels Beaver Dam. We provide a comprehensive approach to senior home care that encompasses a variety of tasks, including assistance with your favorite leisure pursuits. Our compassionate and highly trained caregivers can assist you while you garden in the backyard or transport you to a community garden plot and help you there. We schedule services when it works best for you, around your familiar routines. Whether you need a companion during the day or someone to watch out for you at night, our elder care professionals are available to lend a hand around the clock, 24/7. To learn more, please contact us today by calling 920-821-1111.