Well landscaped lawns and gardens are not only beautiful but also provide many health benefits, particularly for older adults who don’t mind getting their hands dirty. How do you know what kind of gardening is healthiest? Consider some of these finer points of gardening, courtesy of LifeSpark Cancer Resources.
Healthy For Any Age
According to CNN, just two hours of gardening each week can help you stave off Type II Diabetes while improving flexibility and neural connections. Even seniors with mobility and motor skill issues, such as arthritis, can get plenty of physical activity outdoors by utilizing raised garden beds and adaptive equipment that makes gardening safe and easy.
Financial Perks
Having a garden pays off in many ways, and not just for your physical health. Lawn Doctor explains that having a well-manicured lawn can improve your property value while simultaneously giving you a beautiful and comfortable space to spend time with those you love. If you’re planning to retire to a new location in the next few years, boosting your curb appeal is a great way to increase your home’s appraisal value.
Gardening For Seniors
Before you start gardening, you’ll need to gather your supplies. For most gardens, a rake, shovel, and garden gloves are a good start. You will then need to decide if you will plant directly into the ground or have a raised garden bed. Many older gardeners find that growing decorative and edible plants in containers on their deck or patio is easy and enjoyable. If you are in a wheelchair, this is a great option.
A garden can even be a way to generate some extra income. Some gardeners have taken gardens they started during the pandemic to create products for a new business.
You might also opt for low-maintenance features, including a hardscape patio, artificial turf, evergreen shrubs and trees, and water-wise and low-maintenance succulents. Your garden and lawn should be easy to care for, affordable, and safe to maneuver around in. You don't want tripping hazards such as large rocks and hidden holes.
Tips To Growing Gracefully
While growing a garden is a great way to stay healthy, it does pose some physical risk. DIY Network explains that ergonomic tools and kneeling pads go a long way in preventing injury. You also want to make sure to stretch your muscles before getting started in the garden, and be sure to maintain good posture at all times. Another way to keep yourself safe when outdoors, especially in the heat, is to break up energy-consuming tasks. You can still make your garden grow by dedicating 10 minutes at a time on maintenance.
A final thought: no matter what type of garden you choose, make sure to stay hydrated and wear sunscreen. No matter how many health benefits you get from digging and planting, overexposure to the sun is bad for you at any age. If you’re still looking for more health and safety tips, talk to your doctor. They can help you decide on the right type of garden for you and your unique situation.
This guest blog is courtesy of LifeSpark Cancer Resources which uses Reiki and Healing Touch therapies to bring peace and healing to cancer patients and their caregivers. Connect with them today to learn more: 303-425-5670.
Healthy For Any Age
According to CNN, just two hours of gardening each week can help you stave off Type II Diabetes while improving flexibility and neural connections. Even seniors with mobility and motor skill issues, such as arthritis, can get plenty of physical activity outdoors by utilizing raised garden beds and adaptive equipment that makes gardening safe and easy.
Financial Perks
Having a garden pays off in many ways, and not just for your physical health. Lawn Doctor explains that having a well-manicured lawn can improve your property value while simultaneously giving you a beautiful and comfortable space to spend time with those you love. If you’re planning to retire to a new location in the next few years, boosting your curb appeal is a great way to increase your home’s appraisal value.
Gardening For Seniors
Before you start gardening, you’ll need to gather your supplies. For most gardens, a rake, shovel, and garden gloves are a good start. You will then need to decide if you will plant directly into the ground or have a raised garden bed. Many older gardeners find that growing decorative and edible plants in containers on their deck or patio is easy and enjoyable. If you are in a wheelchair, this is a great option.
A garden can even be a way to generate some extra income. Some gardeners have taken gardens they started during the pandemic to create products for a new business.
You might also opt for low-maintenance features, including a hardscape patio, artificial turf, evergreen shrubs and trees, and water-wise and low-maintenance succulents. Your garden and lawn should be easy to care for, affordable, and safe to maneuver around in. You don't want tripping hazards such as large rocks and hidden holes.
Tips To Growing Gracefully
While growing a garden is a great way to stay healthy, it does pose some physical risk. DIY Network explains that ergonomic tools and kneeling pads go a long way in preventing injury. You also want to make sure to stretch your muscles before getting started in the garden, and be sure to maintain good posture at all times. Another way to keep yourself safe when outdoors, especially in the heat, is to break up energy-consuming tasks. You can still make your garden grow by dedicating 10 minutes at a time on maintenance.
A final thought: no matter what type of garden you choose, make sure to stay hydrated and wear sunscreen. No matter how many health benefits you get from digging and planting, overexposure to the sun is bad for you at any age. If you’re still looking for more health and safety tips, talk to your doctor. They can help you decide on the right type of garden for you and your unique situation.
This guest blog is courtesy of LifeSpark Cancer Resources which uses Reiki and Healing Touch therapies to bring peace and healing to cancer patients and their caregivers. Connect with them today to learn more: 303-425-5670.