There is just something so delightful about fresh florals. Cascading leaves and bright tropical colors can brighten even the darkest of days. They bring comfort and beauty to just about everyone and for seniors who are able to work outside in their own gardens, there are numerous health advantages. Aside from the gorgeous blooms, gardening can increase daily exercise, improve the immune system, reduce stress and worry, and may even lessen the tendency towards dementia by an incredible 36%, according to this study. The benefits are endless, especially for seniors. But, what about those senior citizens who are homebound and cannot take advantage of gardening? There is another option – houseplants. Champion Home Health Care is grateful to be able to provide professional and compassionate home health care to the senior residents of Melbourne, FL. Our caretakers and skilled nurses know that quality of life can be enhanced in a multitude of ways and that when the elderly population is able to relish in the beauty of the outdoors within their own homes, they don’t feel quite so alone.
Houseplants are an incredible way to bring nature inside and for many seniors, they are easily maintainable. A little water here and there and most houseplants are capable of survival indoors. Piedmont Healthcare notes that indoor vegetation can be great for just about anyone. The only exception is those who suffer from mold allergies. The soil necessary for indoor growth can contain mold which may aggravate those who are sensitive to it. If this doesn’t sound like you, then indoor gardening can work. Did you know that indoor plants can help with breathing? All plants convert carbon dioxide into oxygen via a process called photosynthesis, and sunlight is required to do so. However, plants like orchids continue to give off oxygen after the sun goes down and make for great plants in bedrooms.
Another benefit of houseplants is cleaner air, really! A study by NASA found that indoor plants did indeed clean the air within a controlled environment so the same could work for you. Naturally, the environment in which they were working was controlled and your home probably is not, but take heart. Recent research seems to confirm this as well.
If you are a novice and would like to incorporate some plants in your home, we would suggest beginning with plants that are hard to kill. According to the University of Florida IFAS website, these are a few great species for those who are fearful they will forget to water on a regular basis. For a more exhaustive list, see here.
- Aloe Vera
- Cactus
- Christmas Cactus
- Ponytail Palm
- Spider Plant
Houseplants can be a great addition to any home and gardening indoors does not have to be complicated. Find a few plant varieties that suit your fancy and give it a go. As always, if you have any questions pertaining to home care assistance in Melbourne, FL, please do not hesitate to contact our Brevard County offices today. We are here to serve you and the ones you love.
