You know how people who move into retirement homes have to give up a lot of the things they love to do?

What I do is bring “plant activities” into retirement homes, for use by the residents to bring healing or wellness.

As a result, they can stay active and healthy with a fun, hands-on activity, and continue to feel engaged and valuable.

Horticultural therapy is all about using plants to bring about healing or wellness to a person’s life. Whether dealing with the results of growing old, or struggling with a mental disability, or addictions in substance abuse, plants, with the help of a horticultural therapist can bring about change.

All activities are centered on the client. First we need to build a relationship so that the client feels safe, non-threatened, and cared for. Once the client has that assurance, we can work on focusing their energy on plant related activities. Activities such as taking cuttings from easy to grow tropical plants, or creating something like a wreath or flower arrangement from natural seeds, leaves, or pods collected in the woods.

We must always work towards a goal, whether that be the ability to use their hands in the case of a senior struggling with arthritis, or in someone who is depressed to see how caring for a plant gives purpose to their life. The goal would be determined by those involved with the client’s treatment so all can work together to reach the goal of success and wellness.