5 WAYS GARDENING BOOSTS SENIOR HEALTH

Published by Laurie McLendon on June 11, 2020June 11, 2020

Studies have shown that spending time in nature has been associated with improved emotion and mood regulation.

Gardening is a great option for a low impact physical activity for seniors, that comes with several health benefits!

1. GARDENING LOWERS STRESS- Studies have found that gardening can lower levels of cortisol which can alleviate stress and even reduce high blood pressure! Gardening can increases the production of serotonin and dopamine — the happy hormones — in our bodies. It also helps decrease the amount of cortisol in your body, a stress hormone.
2. GARDENING INCREASES SEROTONIN- Gardening can increases the production of serotonin and dopamine. Serotonin is a happy chemical, a natural anti-depressant, and strengthens the immune system in our bodies. It also helps decrease the amount of cortisol in your body, a stress hormone. Some studies have even linked gardening to a reduction in symptoms of depression.
3. GARDENING INCREASES MOBILITY & REDUCES PAIN – Gardening can also help increase mobility and strength. Keeping lesser-used muscles engaged, gardening has been shown to be a productive way of rebuilding strength and mobility following a stroke. In addition, staying busy in the garden can keep seniors’ minds off their physical aches and pains and keep their minds off their troubles.
4. GARDENING CAN HELP BOOST HEART HEALTH AND REDUCES THE RISK OF STROKE- As a moderately intense exercise, gardening can easily count towards the recommended 30 minutes of daily exercise. A study from Stockholm found that regular gardening can reduce the risk of heart attack and stroke by as much as 30% for people over 60.
5. GARDENING CAN INCREASE VITAMIN D LEVELS- Vitamin D increases your calcium levels, which benefits your bones and immune system. Studies have found that exposure to sunlight helped older adults achieve adequate serum vitamin D levels. Outdoor activities like gardening are a great way to get sunshine while pursuing a fun hobby. Just don’t forget the sunscreen to protect your skin, and sunglasses for your eyes!