LeadingAge Oregon Brings Nature Indoors Through CMP Grant

The indoor garden is constructed in partnership with a job training program that employs and trains veterans and adults living with disabilities

Eldergrow, a Seattle-based company that brings nature indoors to elders in senior living communities, is the centerpiece of a Federal Civil Monetary Penalty (CMP) grant awarded to the LeadingAge Oregon Association. The Initiative named the GARDEN Project, will reach the needs of elders living in LeadingAge Oregon’s skilled nursing member communities. There are 8 communities involved in this grant, receiving a total number of 11 indoor therapeutic gardens across the state of Oregon.

Established in 1979, LeadingAge Oregon is dedicated to its mission of advancing quality aging services in Oregon through advocacy, education, and fellowship. Kristin Milligan, CEO of LeadingAge Oregon had this to say, “Partnering with Eldergrow on the GARDEN Project aligns with our organization’s commitment to providing our members with the support they need to improve the quality of care and life for their residents.”

Eldergrow’s Therapeutic Horticulture program includes an indoor, mobile garden filled with a variety of plants that give residents the opportunity to engage in sensory stimulation and reminiscing. The program also includes an Eldergrow Educator who conducts ongoing, interactive nature-based classes and provides garden maintenance.

The indoor garden is constructed in partnership with a job training program that employs and trains veterans and adults living with disabilities. The gardens include a custom grow light and wheels that mobilize the garden.

“We are thrilled to grow in this partnership,” said Orla Concannon, Eldergrow’s CEO and Founder. “LeadingAge Oregon has been working on this project for over three years - it’s great to see their dedication come to life. They provide the most innovative wellness programs for their members and residents.”

The value that Eldergrow brings to these communities is more than simply a garden club. A 2014 report done by the University of Washington has shown that therapeutic horticulture reduces depression, improves self-esteem, improves balance, coordination, and endurance, and can lower the risk factors for dementia by 36%.

The CMP grant is making it possible for LeadingAge Oregon and Eldergrow to enhance the lives of hundreds more elders living in skilled nursing facilities. Rollout begins July 19th with Mirabella II, located in Portland.

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