Brooklyn House Get Green Fingered

Spring arrived with some warmer weather this week and residents at Brooklyn House took advantage of it during a regular gardening club session.Our residents really enjoy getting outside, and for those that are unable we have indoor gardening too. Gardening has many health and therapeutic benefits for older people, especially edible gardening. Garden beds, equipment and tools can all be modified to create a garden that is interesting, accessible and productive.Gardening is a great form of exercise and helps with the mobility and flexibility of our residents. It can also encourage motor skills and improve endurance and strength which in turn can prevent diseases such as osteoporosis.Our residents find that gardening can reduce stress levels and help them relax, especially if they already have an interest in plants and flowers and are socialising with each other.Chris Lines and Carolyn Simpson were among residents who enjoyed planting runner beans and sunflower seeds outside in the garden.“It’s been wonderful to enjoy some spring sun at last”, remarked Carolyn. “I wonder who’s sunflower will grow the tallest?”