Gardening has been one of America's favorite hobbies. And has Therapeitic benefits for older adults that can remain an activity for Seniors aging. We all know that gardening takes alot of work, so let's focus on an easier way and still be able to continue gardening.
For individuals suffering from arthritis, gardening can be a great exercise & stress reducer when done corectly. In fact gardening is an excellent activity for maintaining joint flexibility, range of motion, & quality of life.
Arthritis is a disease that causes inflamed joints. The two main types of Arthritis are osteoarthritis & Rheumatoid arthritis. Osteoarthritis is characterized by adgeneration of joint tissue, which can lead to paiin & stiffness in the joints. The cartilage that protects the ends of bones wear away. It is most commonly seen in fingers, hips, knees, feet & the spine but can affect any joint, & is characterized by stiffness, pain, & a loss of mobility.
Rheumatoid arthritis affects the entire body as inflamation in joints or internal organs. If it is left untreated, rheumatoid arthritis can lead to severe deformity or disability. Three main symptoms include heneral aches & paiins, fatigue, & efver. The pain associated with arthritis can be caused by swelling, joint damage, tight muscles, or spasms. It is important to move these joints in order to prevent muscle weakening or stiffening, which can increase pain & discomfort. However, it is also important not to overuse or strain the joints or muscles while gardening.
Yes, Patio Container Gardening for Seniors as they age. This can still give Seniors an activity well enjoyed by millions of americans. It is less stress and less work...
Be careful of tall plants in small containers because they can be root-bound, and if they are, the plants will not function well. And remember that container plants must be fed more than ground vegetation. "There are liquid fertilizers, both organic and chemical, on the market now."
Horticulture therapy is a "big deal" Basically it is using plant growing as a method of helping the aging. There can be mental benefits such as a lift in depression, and physical benefits because the person is mobilizing. The senses are also stimulated due to the plant's fragrance, its visual appeal and the fact that gardening is a great activity. It's also very rewarding to grow plant's, especially for Seniors. It gives them something progressive to do. In fact you could do flowers along with vegetables, as well as adding some Herb's. Not only has herbs been providing us with soothing teas, healing home remedies and helping to create culinary delights, now comes news that herbs have been scientifically proven, ounce-for-ounce, to have more antioxidant and anti-cancer properties than berries, fruits or vegetables.
In the fight against cancer, heart disease and premature aging, researchers believe antioxidants protect cells from chemical damage caused by free radicals that result from exposure to pesticides and other environmental toxins. Among common kitchen herbs that have antioxidant properties are dill, oregano, parsley, pepperment, rosemary, sage, savory, spearment, sweet marjoram and thyme -- with oregano ranking the most potent in antioxidant ability.
