Care homes provide those who need extra care with the facilities they need to live a
comfortable life. The best care homes do that while ensuring dignity, individuality, and
freedom. One of the most essential features a care home can offer is the ability to garden,
as it has a ton of benefits for the residents.
Is Gardening Always Possible in Care Homes?
Most good care homes will offer gardening activities to their residents. Of course, some care
homes will have more opportunities than others. If you love gardening, always check out the
gardening activities before picking a care home. Signature Care Home in Highgate, for
example, offers communal garden spaces with raised beds and other features so that you
can get stuck into the gardening. There’s also the benefit of beautiful surrounding views.
If you like gardening, always check with the care home first to see if it’s possible. You don’t
want to be disappointed. With that being said, here are the undeniable benefits of gardening
for care home residents.
Time for Social Interaction
There’s no denying just how important socializing is for care home residents. It can help
them feel more confident and connected, which is why so many care homes encourage
social activity. Gardening is a particularly great one, as gardening encourages residents to
interact and collaborate, particularly in communal gardens. It’s a great place to make friends.
Physical Activity
Exercise is important for people of all ages, but it’s especially beneficial for seniors, as even
gentle exercise will get the blood pumping and reduce the risk of heart disease while
boosting mobility. The best thing about gardening is that it’s an enjoyable exercise – you
don’t even feel like you’re engaging in physical activity until later when your arms start to
ache slightly!
A Purpose
One of the things many care home residents struggle with is a sense of purpose. Just
imagine that you’ve spent the majority of your adult life working a full-time job, and suddenly,
you have tons of time to waste. While that might seem enticing, it can get boring after a
while, which is why creating a sense of purpose is essential. Gardening provides just that.
Even if it’s just making sure that the Marigolds bloom this summer, it’s enough to make the
residents feel as though they’re working towards something meaningful.
Stress Reduction
Did you know that working in a garden can reduce stress? It’s true. The combination of being
in nature, getting fresh air, and soaking up the sunlight all contribute to a more relaxed state
of being. Over the years, there has been lots of proof that being in nature can greatly
improve your well-being! For care home residents who want a calmer and more stress-free
life, gardening is the perfect hobby to take up.
Gardening: A Worthwhile Hobby for Care Home Residents
Gardening has plenty of benefits for care home residents. Whether you or someone you love
is moving into a care home, it’s a hobby to consider. It will result in a happier, healthier, and
more stress-free time at the care home.