There’s no denying that a fresh bouquet of roses or a handful of vibrant lilies brighten a room. Still, a new study has shown that flowers can be immensely beneficial for senior citizens.
Researchers at Rutgers University have proven that beautiful buds can alleviate depression, encourage social interaction and foster memory skills during one’s golden years.
"The results are significant because as our nation grows older and life becomes more stressful, we look for easy and natural ways to enhance our lives," said Dr Jeannette Haviland-Jones of the Human Development Lab at Rutgers.
The study followed willing participants over the course of six months. Afterwards, 81 percent reported a reduction in depression, while 72 percent scored higher on memory tests than those who did not receive a regular bouquet of blooms.
Experts believe that depression for retirement living seniors are caused by several different factors, such as boredom, health issues and the loss of a spouse.
Luckily, it looks like a quick, low-cost treatment may be readily available for seniors looking for help, according to Haviland-Jones.
"Now, one simple answer is right under our noses," she said.
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