Did you know that by bringing the outdoors in, you can improve both your health and mood? The presence of flowers or any type of greenery in your home can help reduce blood pressure and anxiety, and they can also improve your mental acuity. According to a study conducted by researchers in The Netherlands, hospital patients with indoor plants in their rooms felt less stressed than those without plants. (Perhaps the same findings would hold true for seniors in assisted living or nursing care settings.) Furthermore, plants are natural air purifiers and have the ability to reduce noise from outdoors, which can further decrease stress.
A growing hobby
With these proven health advantages, indoor gardening is a great hobby for older adults, providing them with a bit of nature in the comfort of their own home. Even seniors living in smaller homes or units in continuing care retirement communities (CCRCs) can reap the benefits of growing indoor plants. But don’t worry if you’re not a gardening expert or you don’t typically have a green thumb. Even if you haven’t had success in the past, you can still fill your space with gorgeous and easy-to-grow greenery.
Five indoor-friendly plants for seniors
Here are five of the best low-maintenance house plants to grow indoors. With such a variety of plants, you can surely find one that will work for you!
Peace lily
With its dark green leaves and white curvy blooms, peace lilies can add unique beauty to your residence. This popular and easy-to-grow plant enjoys a warm and humid environment, but doesn’t tolerate direct sunlight. Be sure the soil is moist most of the time.
African violet
African violets will keep you happy with their constantly blooming flowers. Place them near a southern-facing window, especially during the winter. Allow the soil to dry out before watering. Be careful to not get water on the leaves because this may result in leaf spotting.
Aloe vera
Aloe vera is not only easy to grow but also has healing properties. Like other succulents, this plant doesn’t require any gardening expertise, which makes it an ideal choice for your home. Aloe vera can grow best in sunny indoor spaces. The best thing is that this plant prefers dry soil, so it seldom needs watering, but it likes plenty of natural light.
Spider plant
This is a common houseplant that creates interest with its unusual long and thin leaves. Spider plants come in several varieties and can be used as a hanging plant as well. The greenery works as a natural air purifier and can sufficiently minimize indoor pollution. Spider plants prefer bright to medium light and evenly moist soil.
Amazon elephant ear
These tropical plants have large heart-shaped leaves that resemble elephant ears. An Amazon elephant ear needs a warm and humid environment. However, you should keep it away from direct sunlight. To mimic the humidity in the jungle, mist the leaves of the plant when watering.
The right pick
The most important thing when considering growing plants indoors is to pick varieties that are appropriate for your environment and your lifestyle. Whether you choose a flower, succulent, or some other type of indoor plant, you can be sure that it will brighten up your day and will give your home a splash of life.
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