Horticulture as a health promoting activity in the elderly

Abstract

The objective of this work was to analyze horticulture as a health promotion strategy for aging with the greatest possible independence and quality. The advancement of age alone, the existence of disease, the practice of an unhealthy eating pattern, as well as the decrease in the practice of regular physical activity, among other factors, reduce the quality of life of the elderly. The effects of horticulture consolidate this practice as an auxiliary strategy for the treatment and prevention of physical and mental illnesses. There is evidence that participating in horticultural activities can have positive effects on physical and mental health, including reducing stress and improving mood. In addition, physical activity associated with horticultural activities can improve cardiovascular health and increase muscle strength and flexibility, which can help prevent falls and other accidents common among the elderly. In fact, the accessible and inexpensive practice of cultivating a vegetable garden has been increasingly used to promote the health of individuals over 65 years of age. We conclude that horticulture can and should be part of a healthy lifestyle and that it can be used as a therapeutic activity and as a health promotion strategy for the elderly.