At Morning Pointe Senior Living communities, gardens aren’t just a beautiful feature — they offer a meaningful way for residents to stay active, connect with nature, and enjoy the simple joys of gardening. Whether it’s planting flowers, tending to vegetables, or simply soaking in the fresh air, spending time outdoors brings a range of health benefits for seniors. Light gardening promotes physical movement, boosts mood, and fosters a sense of purpose, creating a holistic environment where residents thrive both physically and mentally.
Our latest inspiring Couch Conversation takes place between two gardening enthusiasts, resident Pat Arnold and part-time activity assistant Jane Cole. They share about how planting and tending the community’s courtyard gardens brings them together in a close friendship, as well as how the vibrant spaces enrich the residents’ home environment.
“I love the beautiful gardens, but I cannot dig in the dirt and plant plants anymore, but you can,” Pat tells Jane.
For her part, Pat is still able to water the plants and tend to the garden to be a participant in the gardening process.
Jane grew up gardening as her mother taught her how to care for and nourish different plants. She started at Morning Pointe as a volunteer.
“When I first came here volunteering, I thought, ‘This place is amazing. I want to be a part of it.’” Jane said. She applied when an activity assistant position came open. “Even though it’s part time, it is amazing how I can come out here and see your smiling face and we can chit-chat. It’s become a very uplifting thing for me.”
Watch our full Couch Conversation here.