ACV’s Skilled Nursing Facility, Good Samaritan Center (GSC), Receives Grant to Implement Therapeutic Eldergrow Garden Project

ACV’s skilled nursing facility, Good Samaritan Center (GSC), is keeping its residents connected to nature by bringing three therapeutic gardens indoors.

GSC’s therapeutic gardens are the result of a $1 million grant awarded by CMS Region 4 and the Agency for Healthcare Administration to LeadingAge Florida, Florida’s only association representing the entire continuum of care for older adults, for its joint Eldergrow GARDEN project.

The project will implement therapeutic horticulture programs in 22 LeadingAge Florida member nursing homes across the state and enhance the quality of life for seniors living in these communities, including those at Good Samaritan Center. Eldergrow, an award-winning Seattle-based company, offers therapeutic gardening programs to seniors in residential and skilled communities. Through this new partnership, Good Samaritan Center residents are now able to nurture a lush indoor garden from the safety of their community.

“In this unprecedented time, it brings us comfort that our residents can safely interact with nature throughout their days. Eldergrow and our incredible staff now make that possible,” said Katrina Fillyaw, Nursing

Home Administrator at Good Samaritan Center.

Studies show that therapeutic horticulture reduces depression, improves balance, and lowers the risk factors for dementia by 36 percent. Eldergrow offers elders a therapeutic connection to nature through enrichment classes on horticulture, culinary and garden art.

“Our members are always looking for new and innovative ways to engage their residents,” said Steve Bahmer, President and CEO of LeadingAge Florida. “We are confident that the Eldergrow GARDEN project will provide enormous benefit to Good Samaritan Center residents, and to the families and staff who provide direct care and support.”

Good Samaritan Center will maintain their garden and therapeutic program with the help of Eldergrow Educators who conduct bi-monthly classes with residents.

“We are excited to start our new partnership with LeadingAge Florida to bring wellness indoors to Good Samaritan Center,” said Eldergrow CEO & Founder Orla Concannon. “This is easily a reflection of the innovative wellness that the community provides to their residents, because if you have a healthy garden, you know you have a healthy community!”

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