Gardening is a Healthy Hobby for Both You and Your Parents
While it may seem hard to believe, it's time to start thinking about spring gardens. Now is a good time to buy seeds before they're sold out. Get some paper and jot down a list of the fruits and vegetables your parents want to harvest during the spring, summer, and fall.
Home Care in Lewes DE: Senior Gardening Benefits
Gardening is a healthy hobby for your parents. It's also a great hobby for you. There are several benefits you'll all gain from getting outside and working in a garden together.
Vitamin D Benefits
Being outside in the sun boosts vitamin D. This vitamin is essential for bone strength and growth. Put on sunscreen and protective clothing and spend time in the fresh air and sunshine.
To make sure your parents don't overheat in the sun, keep water bottles on hand. Have a shady place where they can sit and rest when needed. Monitor them for signs of dehydration or heat stress. If you suspect they're getting too warm, head inside to cool off in front of a fan or the AC.
You Get Exercise
As you dig in the dirt, pull weeds, and walk around the rows, you get exercise. Walking around is a good form of exercise, but there's more to gardening. Each time you bend over and pull more weeds, you stretch out the back and leg muscles. Digging the soil as you add compost or manure works out the arms, back, and shoulders.
Gardening Improves Your Mood
Gardening helps boost your mood. Part of it is because you're outside in the fresh air and sun. It also helps to surround yourself with the scents of flowers and herbs. Plus, you'll feel great when you find your hard work is leading to the reward of fresh produce.
It's a Good Way to Socialize
When your parents join you in the garden, you all have time to socialize. You'll work together planting, weeding, and harvesting. You can talk about what to grow, things you can make them the fruits and vegetables, and what to do with the excess produce.
If you have kids, let them help out. They can do some of the gardening tasks with you. They could water the plants, pick ripe produce, and bring it inside.
What Do Your Parents Do When You're at Work or Managing Your Household?
Senior care aides benefit your parents when it comes to socialization. They're also helpful when it comes to monitoring your parents' activities outside.
Caregivers can make sure they're drinking enough water and coming in for breaks when needed. Call a senior care agency and ask about prices for the services that would help your parents.