Cooler temperatures are settling in throughout the Heartland, making it an ideal time for gardening. Green thumb or not, Seniors Helping Seniors® care receivers will benefit from this activity for many reasons.
Let’s take a moment to uncover how gardening helps those we serve continue to stay active, social, and independent — in addition to creating the best-looking lawn on the block!
Unearth Health Benefits
Gardening is a fun fall activity that can help boost mental wellness and physical fitness. Our Seniors Helping Seniors® caregivers are happy to assist those we serve in getting their lawn or garden in shape, allowing you or a senior loved one to blossom in the process.
Build Immunity
When it comes to gardening, getting a little dirt under the nails is a good thing! Studies show that Mycobacterium – the bacteria found in garden soil – provides a natural boost to the immune system and helps to fight off pesky seasonal allergies.
Battle Stress & Depression
A day in the sun provides a host of advantages to people of all ages, seniors included! It can help regulate emotions and reduce stress while certain flowers or smells cultivate a sense of nostalgia. Additionally, working in the garden on a sunny day increases the production of Vitamin D, a known combatant of depression.
Build Strength & Endurance
Since gardening requires continuous care and attention, it’s a wonderful way for Seniors Helping Seniors® clients to commit to regular exercise. Working in the yard or garden can help boost endurance, increase flexibility, and build strength, all of which keeps our care receivers active and feeling their best.
Top Fall Planting Picks
Gardening is all about choosing the plants that spark joy, but certain species of flora are better suited to particular areas of the U.S. than others. Heartland hardiness zones, or the area in which a plant can thrive, can range all the way from 3b to 8a, depending on your location. Keep this in mind when deciding which plants to incorporate into your space and you’ll enjoy stunning vegetation all season long!
Colchicum Bulbs
Also known as the autumn crocus, colchicum bulbs are sure to give your fall garden a facelift! This low maintenance species is ideal for pots and is deer resistant to boot. Come mid-autumn, white, pink, blue, and purple buds will ascend, sprinkling the garden with beautiful pops of color!
Perennials
Perennials are available in tons of varieties and come back year after year, making them an excellent addition to any flower bed. Not to mention, working perennials into your gardening plan can help cut down on the amount of planting required at the start of each new season.
New York Asters and sneezeweed typically do well in hardiness zones 4 through 8, making them a versatile addition throughout the Heartland. Asters will add a colorful pop of purple while sneezeweed blooms are red and yellow.
Japanese Maple
Nothing encompasses fall quite like the maple tree, and the Japanese maple is an ideal choice for Heartland yards. The tree will thrive best in a mostly sunny spot and boasts bright red and orange foliage, making it a beautiful statement piece.
Though gardening is a relaxing activity, it can also be strenuous if you take on too much. Don’t hesitate to ask your Seniors Helping Seniors® caregiver to lend a hand – they love getting involved in our care receivers’ hobbies and interests! From helping with weeding and planting to offering engaging conversation along the way, our caregivers are the perfect gardening companion. Now, pass the shovel!