As we get older, finding rewarding ways to pass the time becomes increasingly important. It’s not unusual for seniors to feel isolated, with plenty of hours to pass and few activities to fill them. Many adult children can’t be with their aging loved ones 24/7 and wonder how to help.
A new hobby can fill the gap; seniors also like revisiting old ones. The Avail Senior Living activities schedule offers many opportunities for residents to partake in hobbies, and one of the favorites involves flowers, plants, and…
Dirt.
You guessed that right! And considering all the hobbies that seniors enjoy, gardening is especially beneficial for older adults. It’s more than just a hobby; it’s an opportunity for them to connect with nature, maintain physical health, and enhance mental well-being.
Gardening For Seniors: The Benefits are Abundant
Gardening is a fine solution for seniors looking to keep busy; this hobby can also offer advantages for those with dementia. At Avail Senior Living, gardening provides these benefits:
Improved Health and Vitality
Physical activity is paramount for seniors, and gardening is a gentle yet effective form of exercise. From watering to weeding, these tasks require movements that help maintain flexibility, improve strength, and increase mobility. As they enjoy these activities, seniors can enjoy the positive effects on their cardiovascular health.
Mental Resilience Through Planting
Spending time in the garden also offers cognitive benefits. The act of nurturing plants can significantly reduce stress and anxiety, providing a calming effect and boosting mental clarity. By staying involved in these activities, seniors have a chance to keep their minds sharp, encouraging a sense of accomplishment with each blooming flower or ripe vegetable.
The sensory experience of touching soil and smelling fresh plants further enriches their emotional well-being and promotes mindfulness.
Social Connections Sprout
Gardening for seniors also opens doors to social interactions. Participating in group gardening projects creates a sense of camaraderie and community. Shared moments in the garden can lead to meaningful conversations and lasting friendships, creating a support network essential for emotional health.
The Sense of Purpose and Accomplishment
Many seniors experience a profound sense of purpose when they cultivate a garden. Whether they are growing vegetables for a meal or nurturing flowers, this fulfilling activity offers them a chance to set goals and celebrate achievements.
It’s about seeing the fruits of their labor and knowing they still contribute meaningfully to the world around them.
Ideal Plants and Flowers for Gardening in Cleveland, Tennessee
Cleveland gardens in the State of Tennessee thrive because this area has such rich soil. For vibrant blooms throughout the growing season, we recommend planting azaleas and hydrangeas; perennials like daylilies and coneflowers provide enduring beauty and require minimal maintenance. Here are a few more suggestions:
- Hosta
- Iris
- Clematis
- Roses
Herbs like lavender and rosemary attract pollinators like butterflies and enhance a garden’s sensory appeal. When cultivating vegetables, tomatoes and peppers grow robustly in Tennessee’s warm climate, yielding bountiful harvests. Embracing these plant selections ensures a diverse and thriving garden, bringing color and life to any outdoor space.
Gardening at Avail Senior Living
Avail Senior Living in Cleveland offers residents the opportunity to immerse themselves in gardening. Our community was designed with seniors in mind and offers space where they tend to plants and enjoy the benefits of gardening.
We’re especially proud of our bee hives, farm to table garden, and butterfly garden. Butterflies are attracted to the latter, keeping the nearby plants healthy. The fluttering wings contribute to the relaxing setting and keep our flowers and residents happy. It’s also a way for Avail Senior Living to contribute to the environment.
Started in 2023, our farm to table garden is a beauty to behold. Our residents tend to it; volunteer groups like the Bradley Sunrise Rotary have also pitched in. On planting days, you’ll find us working on the following:
- Beans
- Blueberries
- Cantaloupe
- Corn
- Cucumbers
- Peas
- Peppers
- Pumpkin
- Squash
- Sunflowers
- Tomatoes
- Watermelon
Imagine how fresh these harvests taste, since it’s a short distance from the garden to our kitchen!
The Avail Commitment to Senior Care
At Avail Senior Living, located in Cleveland, Tennessee, our community is tailored for ease of access and includes amenities that support assisted living, memory care, and respite care.
Our team of experienced professionals works diligently to address each resident’s individual needs with respect and consideration. We offer living arrangements to meet different preferences for a tailored approach that supports a high quality of life.
Avail Senior Living is devoted to cultivating a spirited, fulfilling life for older adults, always prioritizing their needs and promoting a high standard of living. Our thoughtful programs invite them to participate in pursuits that boost their well-being and give family members the peace of mind they deserve.
How will your garden grow at Avail Senior Living?
Whether your loved one has a passion for gardening, arts and crafts, or another rewarding hobby, Avail Senior Living makes every resident feel valued. Our gardening activities are just one of our programs; here, opportunities for growth are as abundant as the seeds we plant. Contact us to learn how your loved ones can flourish in our community.
