Spring is coming! For the parts of the country still covered in snow, this may seem like a distant dream. However, March 20 is the first official day of spring, we’ve already experienced daylight savings, and my crocus are beginning to pop up. It’s the perfect time of year to begin planning your garden, and to consider creating garden space for the elderly loved ones in your life.

Gardening is a fantastic activity for seniors, and here’s why:

  1. Physical Exercise: Gardening is a great form of physical exercise that helps maintain flexibility, strength, and balance. If seniors are in a wheelchair, you can build raised beds.
  2. Mental Stimulation: Gardening provides mental stimulation and can help prevent cognitive decline. Planning what to plant, where to plant it, and what needs tending to.
  3. Social Interaction: Gardening can be a social activity that helps elderly individuals maintain social connections and prevent loneliness. Community gardens are great if they’re nearby.

    It’s the perfect time of year to begin planning your garden, and to consider creating garden space for the elderly loved ones in your life.
  4. Nutritious Food: Gardening can provide fresh, nutritious produce, which is important for maintaining good health. And way more delicious than store bought.
  5. Stress Relief: Gardening can be a great way to reduce stress and promote relaxation. Some even believe that working in the soil is a form of grounding and incredibly good for you.
  6. Sunlight Exposure: Gardening provides an opportunity for exposure to sunlight, which can boost Vitamin D levels and improve overall health. Wear proper protection on warm days.

    "Gardening can improve the quality of life for elderly individuals by providing a sense of accomplishment, purpose, and enjoyment."

  7. Sense of Purpose: Gardening can give elderly individuals a sense of purpose and accomplishment. My grandma loved giving garden tours.
  8. Sense of Community: Gardening can be a great way to connect with the community and contribute to the local environment. Search for community gardens near your loved one.
  9. Opportunity for Creativity: Gardening can provide a creative outlet for elderly individuals. Even just planting some pots on a balcony can be quite beautiful.
  10. Improved Quality of Life: Gardening can improve the quality of life for elderly individuals by providing a sense of accomplishment, purpose, and enjoyment.

LTC Consumer has resources to keep your golden years, golden. Everything from gardening to traveling to long term care planning tips. Be sure to protect your retirement dollars today, and request a quote for long term care insurance.