Gardening tips especially for seniors:
It’s growing season in Washougal, and gardening is a great activity for seniors. By spending just a few hours a week out in the garden, you can see benefits, including reducing your risk for many health issues and decreasing social isolation. It also helps dispel depression by getting some sun and a bit of exercise. It doesn’t matter whether you are planting flowers or vegetables, the perks of gardening will keep you coming back for more. 
Here are some suggestions to make your gardening experience more comfortable and rewarding.
- Plant your flowers or vegetables in raised beds. This means you avoid constantly bending over which puts a strain on your back.
- If you do spend any time on your knees, wear knee pads.
- Choose good tools. Long-handled and curved tools give you the grip and leverage you need to work efficiently. A long-handled, wheeled cart will also come in handy.
- Have a stool nearby for resting while you are watering your plants.
- Plant upward. Save your back by planting flowers and vegetables that grow on vines.
- Vary your daily gardening routine, using different muscle groups on a rotating basis.
- Be an early bird gardener. Do your gardening early in the day to avoid the afternoon heat.
- Gardening doesn’t have to be a solitary activity. Team up with a gardening buddy and make it more social.
Imagine how good it will feel when you harvest your vegetables and flowers and share them with your friends and neighbors. You will be glad you took the time and made the effort to plant and tend your garden, and made the world a little brighter in the process.
Come visit our adult family homes in Washougal, and take a look at all the enriching opportunities and activities we offer our residents.