It goes without saying that gifts make people happy - especially senior citizens living in hospitals, nursing homes or alone at home. Oftentimes, even a small gesture like a phone call is enough to lift their spirits, so presents like thinking of you flowers are always a welcome surprise. But why do flowers in particular seem to be the best choice for the elderly?
Before you purchase a variety of roses for different occasions to give to your elderly relative or friend, you might want to take a look at some of the benefits that flowers can provide senior citizens so you know exactly how to go about giving your gifts. One study in particular, which was conducted by Rutgers University in 2001 and published in the Journal of Evolutionary Psychology, found particularly useful ways that flowers can improve the lives of seniors.
Around 100 participants, both male and female, were evaluated in the study, which examined depression levels, social contact and memory with and without the presence of flowers. The seniors were placed into groups, which determined whether or not they received flowers at different intervals. Some were presented with flowers on a regular basis, while others received them on occasion. A number of individuals weren't given any flowers at all. Frequent interviews, daily logs kept by the participants and multiple memory tests were used to collect the data.
The findings demonstrated that flowers improve the lives of elderly people by making them feel younger and more vibrant. In fact, 40 percent of those who received flowers in the study said that their social lives were heightened and they felt better connected to their circles of friends. In addition, 72 percent had impressive results on memory tests, while a whopping 81 percent felt less depressed just being around flowers.
"Happier people live longer, healthier lives and are more open to change," said Dr. Haviland-Jones, Rutgers professor of psychology and lead researcher on the study. "Our research shows that a small dose of nature, like flowers, can do a world of wonder for our well-being as we age."
It looks as though Nancy Etcoff, a clinical instructor in psychology at Massachusetts General Hospital, has similar ideas about environment affecting mood. In an article in Harvard Magazine, she explained that people like to be around water sources, animals and low-canopy trees, as these all represent protection, life and sustenance. "Humans prefer this to deserts or man-made environments," she told the news source. "Building windowless, nature-less, isolated offices full of cubicles ignores what people actually want."
If you're concerned about the well-being of your elders or even yourself, a bright flower bouquet here and there could be enough to provide the touch of nature necessary to feel revitalized, refreshed and full of energy.