At Maplewood Senior Living, we understand that wellness extends far beyond physical care – it encompasses emotional fulfillment, cognitive stimulation, and connection to both people and place. One of the most enriching ways we support this holistic lifestyle is through gardening. Each of our communities features beautifully maintained green spaces that residents are encouraged to grow and tend. From thriving raised beds to seasonal flower gardens, these areas offer more than just curb appeal – they serve as living, breathing spaces for creativity, relaxation, and personal growth.
Whether tucked alongside a walking path, nestled within a courtyard, or stretching across a sun-drenched terrace, garden spaces are a hallmark of every Maplewood community. Residents are invited to take an active role in the design and upkeep of these spaces, choosing what to plant and how to care for their garden beds. From vibrant zinnias and sunflowers to fresh basil, cherry tomatoes, and mint, our gardens reflect the tastes and talents of those who tend them.
Raised beds and adaptive tools make gardening accessible for all residents, regardless of mobility or experience level. These features help ensure that anyone who wants to take part in the joys of gardening can do so comfortably and confidently.
In addition to individual gardening opportunities, each Maplewood location hosts its own gardening club. These clubs provide a sense of purpose and camaraderie, allowing residents to share ideas, plan seasonal planting, and work together to beautify their shared environment. Gardening clubs often meet weekly, and members take pride in watching their efforts blossom throughout the year.
Our lifestyle teams support these clubs with structured programming, educational activities, and occasional visits to local horticulturists, florists, and garden centers. These outings not only expand our residents’ gardening knowledge but also help connect our communities to the broader neighborhood.
Gardening is more than a hobby – it’s a powerful tool for supporting wellness across multiple domains. According to the National Library of Medicine, gardening can enhance physical health by improving strength, endurance, and coordination. Even light gardening tasks, such as watering, planting, and pruning, offer gentle yet effective exercise.
Beyond physical benefits, gardening is deeply therapeutic. The process of nurturing plants can reduce stress and anxiety, elevate mood, and increase overall life satisfaction. Exposure to fresh air and sunlight stimulates vitamin D production and helps regular circadian rhythms. For individuals living with memory impairment, time spent in the garden can spark moments of clarity and joy, offering both structure and a comforting sense of routine.
Gardening is an inherently multisensory activity. Residents enjoy the feel of warm soil, the scent of lavender and rosemary, the brilliant colors of spring blossoms, and the sound of birdsong while they work. These experiences promote sensory engagement, which is particularly beneficial for older adults as a way to maintain cognitive sharpness and reduce feelings of isolation.
Moreover, gardening naturally encourages mindfulness. Whether planting seeds, pulling weeds, or harvesting herbs, the act of focusing on a single task in a peaceful environment fosters presence and inner calm.
At Maplewood, we believe that older adulthood is a time to deepen our connection with nature, not lose it. By incorporating gardening into daily life, we provide our residents with a powerful outlet for creativity, healing, and joy. Our green spaces are more than just gardens – they’re places where memories are made, friendships grow, and wellness thrives.
Whether you’re a lifelong gardener or newly curious, there’s always something to cultivate at Maplewood.
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