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Health Benefits of Gardening for Seniors

Spring has sprung, which means it’s a great time to get outside! Gardening is one of the best ways for seniors to get moving and enjoy the fresh air.  Here are a few of the many health benefits of gardening for seniors.

It’s good for your body.

According to the CDC, gardening is considered moderate exercise. The time you spend tending plants, pulling weeds and getting your hands dirty can help lower your blood pressure. Gardening is a full-body workout, and can help you increase strength and stamina, as well as build flexibility. Because of the motion required, it can also build strength in your hands.

Just spending a few minutes outside in the garden each day also gives you a healthy dose of sunlight, and therefore the Vitamin D your body needs. Just be sure to take proper precautions and protect yourself from the sun.

It’s good for your mind.

Like many outdoor activities, gardening can have a positive impact on your mental health. Spending time outside in the garden has been shown to reduce anxiety and stress. It can also boost your self-esteem and feelings of well-being.

When you spend time outside in the garden, you’re getting the benefits of two separate mood-boosters: the outdoors, and exercise. Simply being outside and being exposed to sunlight and fresh air can boost endorphins that improve your mood. On top of that, your body releases endorphins when you exercise. No wonder gardening is such a feel-good hobby.

It’s good for your soul.

Gardening is a wonderful way to build community and form connections with the people around you. Community gardens and garden clubs are great for meeting other people with similar interests to your own. Building strong friendships is good for the soul, and what better way to get to know someone than working on a project together?

Safe Gardening Practices for Seniors

So, you’re ready to get out there and get your hands dirty. While gardening is a great hobby for seniors because it isn’t overly strenuous, it’s still wise to take precautions when exerting yourself. Follow these guidelines to safely enjoy your time outside in the garden.

Protect yourself from the sun.

If you’re going to be out in the sun, always wear sunscreen. Wear protective clothing that shields your skin. Wide-brimmed hats are also great for keeping your face in the shade.

Stay hydrated.

It’s always important for seniors to drink plenty of water, but even more so when you’re toiling away in the garden! Always bring a water bottle with you and sip it frequently as you work. Take extra care to stay hydrated on bright, sunny days.

Take breaks when you need them.

Don’t overdo it when you’re out working in the garden. While gardening is considered moderate exercise, some of the strenuous tasks, such as continuous digging, is considered vigorous. Take frequent breaks in the shade as you need them, and don’t be afraid to ask a friend for help. Many hands make light work!

At Advent Christian Village, we strive to create a sense of community so our members can form meaningful connections. Getting involved with our community garden is just one of the many ways our residents build friendships while enjoying the fresh air and beautiful scenery. To learn more about Advent Christian Village, give us a call at 1-888-606-3035, or contact us today to schedule a tour. We’d love to show you everything our community has to offer!