Seniors may be searching for enjoyable, low-intensity activities to stay active and engaged this summer. Gardening offers a fantastic opportunity for seniors to improve their mobility while reaping a range of other wellness benefits.
This blog post from Senior Helpers Seattle explores the various ways gardening helps seniors enhance their flexibility, balance, and strength while getting outdoors and enjoying the sunshine.
1. Get Exercise Walking Around the Garden
One of the simplest yet most effective forms of exercise is walking. It is an ideal activity for seniors because it is gentle on the body and provides a wonderful way to get the heart pumping. While tending to their garden, seniors naturally walk around to care for their plants and flowers. This aids in improving their balance and coordination. Add the bonus of being surrounded by nature for an element of relaxation and enjoyment.
2. Improve Flexibility by Kneeling or Squatting
Kneeling and squatting are essential movements in gardening. These movements provide numerous benefits for flexibility and mobility. As seniors plant seeds or pull weeds, they engage the muscles and joints of their lower body which helps maintain their strength and range of motion. Seniors should consider using a cushion or knee pad to safely perform these actions. They should also pay attention to their posture to prevent strain or injury.
3. Enhance Motor Skills by Trimming and Caring for Plants by Hand
Hand tools are a gardener's best friend and using them can work wonders for maintaining hand-eye coordination and fine motor skills. As they trim branches, prune flowers, or harvest vegetables, seniors naturally improve their grip strength and overall mobility. In fact, gardening is a great way to keep seniors' hands and fingers agile and strong while being immersed in a fun, creative activity.
4. Incorporate Stretches and Gentle Exercises
To further enhance the mobility benefits of gardening, seniors should try incorporating some stretches and gentle exercises into their routines. For example, seniors can reach up high to trim taller branches or stretch their legs while squatting to engage their muscles. These movements can improve their flexibility, mobility, and overall well-being, making their gardening sessions even more beneficial.
Gardening as a Social Activity
Beyond physical benefits, gardening can also serve as a social outlet for seniors. Engage in gardening activities with friends, family, or neighbors to encourage conversations and fosters connections. This helps improve mental health and reduces feelings of isolation. Sharing gardening tips, swapping plants, or simply enjoying each other's company can contribute to an enhanced sense of community and well-being.
Mental Health Benefits of Gardening
Gardening has been shown to have various mental health benefits including reduced stress levels and increased feelings of accomplishment. As seniors witness the fruits of their labor grow and flourish, that sense of achievement can be incredibly fulfilling. Improved mental health not only contributes to their overall well-being but can also positively impact their physical mobility.
Accessible Gardening Options
There are still plenty of ways to enjoy gardening for seniors with limited mobility. Options such as raised garden beds or container gardening can make it easier for seniors to access and tend to plants without straining their bodies. Additionally, they can look for ergonomic tools that are easier to grip and consider installing handrails or supports to make your garden more accessible.
Senior Helpers Can Assist With Gardening Needs
Senior Helpers provides customized, in-home senior care services with the specific needs and requirements of our senior community in mind.
If you are a senior living in the Seattle, Bellevue, Kirkland, or Sammamish areas, contact us at Senior Helpers Seattle for assistance with your gardening needs. Start reaping the benefits of this wonderful pastime today!