Avery in Bloom
The English garden is one of the most established of institutions, and half of the adult population in England report being involved in gardening, so it is an important activity throughout our lives, reaching a peak just after retirement. The mental health benefits too are wide and diverse. Studies have shown a significant reduction in depression, anxiety, and improved socialisation. Surveys suggest that, as we get older gardens become much more important for our personal identity, independence and reducing loneliness. There is even emerging evidence that gardening may also be important in falls and dementia prevention, with examples such as Horatio’s Garden certainly known to support recovery from illness.
It is well known that being outdoors in the fresh air and sunlight, among plants and trees is hugely beneficial. On a summer’s day, a beautiful English country garden is a special place to be, with a lush, green lawn surrounded by borders filled with highly scented roses, abuzz with bees and butterflies and a haven for small birds.
Some residents at Avery care homes are involved in the planting and growing of herbs, which our chefs then use in their cooking at the homes - a real “growto plate” story where they can enjoy the fruits (no pun intended!) of their efforts. It takes the skill of the very best garden designer to create or develop a setting that achieves that perfect extension from the house into the garden, and Avery works very closely with landscape gardeners to produce beautiful, yet practical outdoor spaces specifically beneficial for older people.
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