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THE SAGE - GARDENUITY BLOG
"Gardening is more than a hobby—it’s a powerful, therapeutic tool that offers healing benefits for both the body and mind. For individuals living with Alzheimer’s disease and their caregivers, gardening can provide moments of peace, connection, and shared joy. In this blog, we’ll explore the healing power of gardening for Alzheimer’s patients and how the practice brings comfort and gratitude to caregivers, including touching examples of how children have found solace in gardening with their parents affected by the disease.”
For the Care Receiver:
For folks with dementia, gardening can "reduce agitation and stress. Time spent outdoors in nature has been shown to lower cortisol levels, helping reduce anxiety and agitation. This is especially important for individuals with Alzheimer’s who may experience confusion or restlessness.
- Stimulate the senses: Gardening activates all five senses—sight, touch, smell, taste, and sound. The vibrant colors of flowers, the texture of soil, the scent of herbs, and the sounds of birds create a rich sensory experience that can help reconnect patients to the present moment.
- Encourage physical activity: Alzheimer’s patients may become sedentary as the disease progresses, but gardening provides a gentle form of exercise that can help improve motor skills, balance, and coordination.
- Boost mood and engagement: Planting, watering, and nurturing a garden fosters a sense of accomplishment and purpose. Even small gardening tasks can help Alzheimer patients feel involved and give them a sense of pride in what they’ve created.”
For the Caregiver: Finding Respite in Gardening
“Caregivers, often family members, bear an emotional and physical burden when caring for loved ones with Alzheimer’s. The demands of daily care can lead to stress, burnout, and feelings of helplessness. For caregivers, gardening offers an opportunity to slow down, breathe deeply, and experience moments of calm amid the caregiving journey.
Research supports the notion that nature-based activities can significantly improve caregivers’ well-being. A study published in the Journal of Aging and Health found that caregivers who engaged in gardening reported lower stress levels, better emotional health, and improved mental clarity.
The act of gardening becomes a shared experience that allows caregivers to bond with their loved ones, even as verbal communication becomes more challenging. Simple tasks like planting seeds together or picking vegetables allow caregivers and Alzheimer’s patients to engage in a non-verbal, meaningful activity that fosters connection. It’s a moment of mutual presence, where the focus shifts from the disease to the beauty of the earth."
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