The role of agriculture in geriatric medicine

Geriatric medicine, the field of medicine that deals with the care of the elderly, is increasingly important in societies where the percentage of elderly people is growing. In caring for the quality of life of seniors, there is an increasing focus not only on treatment and rehabilitation, but also on prevention and healthy lifestyles. In this context, agriculture plays a remarkable role. In this article, we will take a look at how agriculture can help improve the health of the elderly, and the benefits of this approach.

Healthy food from organic farming

The quality of food has a huge impact on our health, and this is especially important for the elderly, whose immune systems are weakened. Organic farming, which excludes the use of pesticides and artificial fertilizers, can provide healthy food rich in essential nutrients. Vegetables, fruits, or meat from organic crops or farms are not only free of harmful substances, but also often contain more nutrients, which translates into a stronger body and better health for seniors.

Farming community and physical activity

The farming profession is often inextricably linked to physical activity. Farm work requires a lot of exercise and movement, which is extremely beneficial for seniors. Involving seniors in the local farming community, for example, by being active in community gardens, can help keep them physically active. Daily involvement in gardening, caring for plants or taking care of one's plot is an excellent form of rehabilitation and a way to keep the body fit.

Physical activity is essential not only for well-being, but also for the prevention of many diseases, such as obesity, high blood pressure and heart disease. Long-term gardening can help maintain healthy cholesterol and blood pressure levels, as well as strengthen the immune system.

Garden therapy

Agriculture also has a number of therapeutic properties that benefit the elderly. Garden therapy, or the use of gardens, plants and nature for therapeutic purposes, can have a positive impact on seniors' health. Contact with nature, communing with greenery and growing plants have a positive effect on mood, mental well-being and overall quality of life. Working in the garden can act as occupational therapy, which not only provides a sense of fulfillment, but also stimulates movement, coordination and manual skills.

Garden therapy can provide excellent support for the elderly in the rehabilitation process after surgeries or illnesses, as well as in the fight against depression, stress and anxiety.

Increase self-reliance and independence

Caring for one's own garden or growing plants at home can help increase the independence and self-reliance of the elderly. The owner of a garden or home vegetable garden can enjoy his or her own crops, which translates into greater independence in accessing healthy food. Drinking freshly squeezed juices, eating vegetables from one's own garden or preparing a meal from hand-picked herbs is a great satisfaction for seniors, which further benefits their health.

Self-involvement in farming can also counteract social isolation and allow seniors to make new connections with other residents or members of the farming community.

Summary

Agriculture plays an extremely important role in geriatric medicine. The benefits of contact with nature, eating healthy food and being physically active are invaluable to the elderly. Organic farming provides an excellent source of wholesome foods that benefit the health of seniors. At the same time, working on the land or in the garden can stimulate physical activity, allowing seniors to maintain fitness and prevent many diseases. Garden therapy has a positive impact on the mental and emotional state of seniors, and their own involvement in farming strengthens their self-reliance and independence. All these aspects make agriculture an integral part of geriatric medicine and should be appreciated and supported at various social levels.