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For many, transitioning to retirement often means downsizing. Moving from a house with a garden to a smaller accommodation with a patio or balcony can make life easier and more affordable. However, for gardening enthusiasts, giving up a garden can be challenging. Studies suggest that gardening is key to maintaining physical and mental health as we age.
A 2020 Australian study examined the relationships between home and community gardening and the self-reported psychosocial and physical well-being of older adults. Researchers Theresa L. Scott, Barbara M. Masser, and Nancy A. Pachana published their findings in the National Library of Medicine under the title “Positive aging benefits of home and community gardening activities: Older adults report enhanced self-esteem, productive endeavors, social engagement and exercise.” Their study of 331 Australian gardeners aged 60-95 reported numerous benefits from leisure gardening. According to the study, “Restoration and Physical benefits were the strongest explanatory variables of participants’ positive aging self-perceptions. Members of gardening groups reported significantly more social and physical benefits than non-members.”
Psychological Benefits
The study supports promoting positive aging through gardening. Whether gardening or simply being in a garden, contact with nature is crucial for attaining therapeutic benefits. Exposure to nature through gardens can enhance psychological well-being by regulating emotions and relieving stress. Early research shows that viewing nature through windows or pictures can positively affect stress recovery, lowering blood pressure and slowing heart rate. Because natural environments require less effortful attention and can distract from daily hassles, especially for frail older adults, simply being in a garden or viewing garden elements may provide relaxation and restoration.
Gardening allows older adults to connect with nature, nurture the environment, and care for plants. It also offers creative opportunities in planning and designing gardens. For those driven to learn about new plants or plan new projects, gardening stimulates mental activity. Cognitive benefits are also present in gardening societies or groups focused on learning about plants, gardening history, or Latin plant names.
Physical Benefits
Gardening requires regular care, offering older adults increased physical activity. This can prevent osteoporosis and reduce the risk of some cancers, type 2 diabetes, depression, and heart disease, which are significant health risks and contributors to healthcare costs. A UK study found that moderate to heavy gardening activity of four or more hours per week significantly reduced morbidity and mortality rates in middle-aged and older men with cardiovascular disease.
Social Benefits of Gardening: Community Gardens and Gardening Clubs
Gardening groups offer individuals a way to connect with nature and each other, providing social benefits. Group membership can be especially important for older adults during changes like retirement. Connecting with gardening group members allows people to receive social support and contribute positively to others’ lives, protecting against isolation and loneliness.
Ventura’s Community Gardens
Locals have several options for community gardening. For more information, call the City of Ventura Garden Hotline at 805-658-4754 or visit www.cityofventura.ca.gov/1715/Community-Gardens.
Cornucopia Community Garden
Cornucopia Community Garden is Ventura’s largest community garden, with approximately 150 plots available for rent. Managed by the Parks and Recreation Department, the garden attracts community members from all walks of life who come together to cultivate the land and enjoy the outdoors.
Kellogg Community Garden
Kellogg Park Community Garden is Ventura’s newest community garden with 47 plots available for rent. Managed by the Parks and Recreation Department, the garden attracts community members who come together to garden, enjoy time with neighbors, and celebrate their harvest.
Westpark Community Garden
Westpark Community Garden has 22 plots available to rent. Managed by the Parks and Recreation Department, the garden attracts community members who live near Westpark, enjoy cultivating the land, and celebrating their harvest.
