There’s nothing quite like the smell of rich, dark soil. It’s something many of us are familiar with and one that many of our day program clients miss.
Since many clients no longer have access to their own garden, we decided this year to create a gardening experience for them, in the form of easily accessible raised garden beds.
Seeds were started inside in early spring and grew speedily in our sunroom. Clients dutifully watered the peas, beans, tomato, flower and herb plants, and watched them grow into strong seedlings.
Two raised beds were built and donated by Paul Gerencser, son of former client Mary Gerencser, and two donated by Alberta Blue Cross Hearts of Blue. On a sunny afternoon we set out with sun hats, garden tools and plants (also generously donated by Hearts of Blue) to plant our beds.
Besides being a familiar and enjoyable activity, gardening is a great form of physical activity for seniors. We can see demeanor and energy levels change as they get outside and breathe in the fresh air. The beds are just the right height if they need to remain seated on their walkers and the ergonomic tools help to reduce pain from arthritis, allowing clients to spend more time outside doing what they love. Sensory aspects of gardening also do much to reduce anxiety and depression, and specifically help reduce behaviours in people with Alzheimers.
For us the joy is in seeing clients smell a sprig of fresh rosemary and then recall with pleasure a meal their mother used to make, or listening to them share wisdom on how to properly care for tomato plants. It’s in watching them chop rhubarb for a cake, or mix up a basil and parsley vinaigrette to serve on salad for lunch. The garden gives our clients a sense of ownership, and adds to the feeling of Pilgrims as a place of comfort and home.
