Loving and Living with Plants

Seniors in the family are unfortunately more or less confined to the four walls of their rooms in this day and age of of living in apartment buildings. Other than trips to see family members during get-togethers, the days of our seniors are routine and monotonous.  With their ailing health, many of them are also unable to go out for long periods of time, even if it is just for a walk in the neighborhood park. There are of  course several ways to break that monotony, but there is one idea that many people often overlook. Think about when they lived the same busy life that we are living today. They lived in independent houses with trees, gardens and lawns to walk in, and also had their village homes, with ponds and wide green fields. Those were the days! 

Naturally we want to see our elders healthy and happy, so let's think about providing a greener life for them.  Research shows that there are benefits to the elderly engaging in gardening work, as it helps them feel less depressed, and decreases the symptoms of dementia and many other age-related ailments. Horticulture therapy is taken as a rehabilatitive tool to keep people fit in current health management.  Gardening is a source of peace that diverts the mind from everyday stress and frustration.  Benjamin Rush, who is called the father of American psychiatry, showed the positive effect that garden work can have on an individual's mind, especially for the elderly. Studies also show that the the pros of the elderly engaging in gardening are immense – not only does it expose them to fresh air and sunlight, but it aso reduces age-related stress and frustration, as well as alleviating chronic pain. Working daily with plants improves the sleep cycle,  helps in focusing attention and, most importantly, their sense of happiness and control over their lives return. Gardening is not just a way to pass time for the elderly, it also takes them back to the cycle of life – giving them the chance to once again create and nurture something and relish in the results. 

It's quite simple. Take them to a nearby nursery and allow them to walk around and absorb the beauty of the nature all around. See which plants they like the most, and arrange for a place on your roof or balcony for them to grow. You can add an extra special touch by buying beautifully decorated flower pots and other accessories to make that garden area a place where they'll love to spend their time, and soon you'll see that smile 
return to their face!

Photo: Laila Karim