Senior Care Professionals Recommend Low-Impact Gardening

Home Care Blog  |  April 23, 2018

Low-Impact Gardening for Seniors

Low-Impact Gardening for Seniors | Springtime is here in Calgary, AB. Although the temperatures are still warming up, now is an ideal time for seniors to prep and participate in light gardening. Senior care professionals recommend gardening for your elderly loved one because it’s low impact, encourages getting outside for fresh air, and keeps them active. Seniors can even enjoy fresh vegetables all spring and summer from their own garden. There are many mental and physical benefits that seniors can get from gardening like:

The Benefits of Low Impact Gardening for Seniors

Reduced Risk of Dementia

Seniors who would like to reduce their risk of dementia should garden on a regular basis. Gardening can improve their problem solving and sensory awareness skills and keep their brain in tip-top shape. Seniors who need a little extra help with cognitive skills can rely on Comfort Keepers senior care services to help them with tasks if they need it.

Low Impact Exercise

When senior citizens garden, they engage in an exercise which can help them manage their weight, improve flexibility, strengthen their heart and lungs, and promote muscle movement. Exercise is very important for seniors. And gardening is an easy form of exercise that seniors can use to give their bodies and brains a workout. Seniors that have mobility challenges can get support and encouragement from an in-home senior care provider.

Reduced Stress

Older adults often experience stress because of financial struggles, health challenges, and the loss of loved ones. Gardening can reduce their stress levels and help them avoid loneliness and depression by relaxing them in a peaceful outdoor environment.

A Sense of Accomplishment

Aging leads to a loss of strengths and accomplishments. Gardening is a great way to provide older adults with something they can accomplish. Older adults can feel fulfilled and accomplished by creating their own garden.

A New Skill or Hobby

Older adults who have never gardened before can gain a new skill and hobby. They may also learn about the different types of plants and eventually become experts in gardening.

Increased Exposure to Vitamin D

Gardening gives seniors increased exposure to vitamin D. Vitamin D is essential for older adults because it can prevent falls and fractures, help them maintain their mobility and independence, and decrease their risk of heart issues, diabetes, and some types of cancer.

To ensure seniors remain safe while gardening, they should wear sunscreen, drink plenty of water, use kneepads to protect themselves from cuts or bruising, and make sure all walkways are flat and free of slipping hazards.

Comfort Keepers^® Calgary Can Help with In Home Care

At Comfort Keepers^®, we create individual care plans for every client. These plans include wellness goals that consider physical, mental and emotional health. Our caregivers can help support physician-prescribed diet and exercise plans, provide medication reminders, provide transportation to appointments and help seniors engage in the activities they love the most. And, our caregivers can help senior stay connected with loved ones through video chats, phone calls and care updates. We believe that every senior should experience the best in life.

Contact the Comfort Keepers Calgary office to learn more about how we can help maintain safety, comfort, and happiness in the home.

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