Exercising their green thumbs can help seniors reap mental and physical rewards.  Connection with nature through gardening can give seniors a lift and also help them stay strong.  Studies have shown that those who garden at least once a week show higher bone density than those who did other types of exercise.  And garden work has an extra advantage, People don’t dread it as they often do other types of exercise.
Gardening can be challenging though.  Especially after a long winter break.  So remember to start slowly and work your way back into shape.  Starting to do some daily gentle range of motion stretches of your arms, back and torso a couple of weeks before you plan on beginning is a good way to prepare.  Once you are in the swing of things it is also a good idea to change your position and activity every 20 to 30 minutes, then rest for 10 minutes.  Here are some other tips for safe and happy gardening:

• Think Small... You don’t need a large garden to gain the mental and physical satisfaction of cultivating plants and viewing nature
• Choose easy to grow plants that are tolerant of difficult conditions
• Use Raised Beds and make sure they have enough room on all sides to easily reach the center
• Place stools or resting places around the gardening area
• Provide pathways that are easy for walkers, canes or wheelchairs to access

Adapted from Gardening Tips For Seniors by Mark Wexler/ nwf.org.