Caring for seniors involves not only their physical needs, but also their emotional and mental well-being. One approach to improve their mental health is to introduce them to indoor gardening. This simple but effective activity can play an important role in improving the lives of seniors.
What is the impact on mental health?
Research continues to reveal the positive effects of gardening on mental health. A study published in the Journal of Health Psychology found that gardening can reduce feelings of stress and improve mood. Another study in the Journal of Public Health concluded that gardening can reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety.
In addition, sensory stimulation from touching and feeling soil and plants is thought to trigger the release of serotonin in the brain. This“happy chemical” plays a key role in mood regulation.
The benefits of indoor gardening
- Mood enhancement: like gardening outdoors, indoor gardening can improve mood and reduce feelings of sadness.
- Stimulating cognitive function: selecting plants, planning the layout and understanding plant care can stimulate the brain and improve cognitive function.
- Physical activity: indoor gardening encourages movement. From watering plants to transplanting, these activities can boost physical health.
- Sense of achievement: watching plants grow and thrive brings a satisfying sense of achievement.
- Social engagement: sharing gardening experiences or group gardening can help reduce feelings of isolation.
Creative ideas for interior gardening
- Container gardens: use a variety of containers such as mugs, teapots or old jars to grow small flowers or herbs.
- Vertical gardens: use wall pockets or shelves to save space and create a vertical garden.
- Window herb garden: You can grow herbs such as basil, mint or rosemary on a simple windowsill.
- Terrariums: these are closed glass containers with soil and plants. Setting them up and maintaining them can be a fun project.
- Water gardens: you can grow plants such as bamboo or lotus in containers of water to create a peaceful environment.
- Garden themes: create themed gardens, for example a desert garden with cacti or a tropical garden with colourful flowers.
Incorporating these ideas can make indoor gardening a fun and fulfilling activity for seniors. It is a combination of art, science and therapy.
Experience pleasure with Atena
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