Get Dirty this Earth Day — Your Body (and Brain) Will Thank You – Alliance for Aging Research

Posted by By admin 28 April 2026No Comments

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Remember those elementary school days when we’d celebrate Earth Day in school? Sometimes we’d learn about photosynthesis, maybe plant a tree, or pick up litter as a service project. While those activities made us feel like superheroes saving the Earth as children, the benefits of participating in Earth Day activities as an older adult can be similar, if not better.

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A recent study in the American Journal of Occupational Therapy (AJOT) found that gardening — especially community gardening — can provide “an avenue for hope and self-fulfillment†for adults in a supported living environment.

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According to the study, gardening can affect a person’s mental health, well-being, social participation, and life satisfaction. This case series monitored four residents at a transitional housing facility to assess the preliminary and conclusive effects of a 5-week gardening group therapy on hope and well-being.

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Sidenote: April is Occupational Therapy Month, a time to gain broader understanding of the value these health professionals bring to the medical community, but also a time to reflect on how meaningful activities of daily living (occupations) can enhance our lives.

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Connecting with nature can relieve stress, provide a sense of purpose, and offer a healthy dose of Vitamin D. The socialization and intellectual conversation that a gardening club provides is mentally stimulating. And if you’re growing vegetables, consuming fresh, preservative-free food (that often tastes better than what’s found at the grocery store) is a win-win for your immune system and overall health.

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And finally, the physical activity of even dropping some seeds into a raised bed is sneaky – resistance of your hand trowel with the potting mix exercises fine motor skills and hand dexterity.

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So, this April 22 — or anytime this spring — be sure to step outside. Pull a weed, snip some flowers, plant some herbs in a pot, and take a big breath of fresh air. For tips on safe outdoor recreation for older adults, check out this resource form the National Institute on Aging.

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Katie Riley serves as Vice President of Communications for the Alliance.

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