TOY
Together Old and Young

Home
Child Adult
Plants Locations







image of child and older adult holding flowers

Adult Benefits

TOY emphasizes learning not just for the child, but for the older adult as well. The older adult is provided to opportunity to spend time with children outdoors and inform them on the ins and outs of gardening. The older adult benefits from:

  1. Improvements in overall health. Older adults engaging in moderate exercise during the day have a reduced chance of experiencing a heart attack and stroke. Getting vitamin D from sunlight exposure can also reduce the risk of heart disease.

  2. Spending a short amount of time gardening can reduce the risk of dementia by as much as 36% percent. This is because gardening requires use of essential cognitive fuctions like sensory awareness and dexterity. In the end, older adults can maintain motor skills and strength.

  3. Relief from anxiety and stress. Time outside in greenery can reduce the amount of cortisol released within the body, which can lower blood pressure.

  4. Enhanced mood and outlook on life. Many older adults suffer from loneliness and depression if they do not have immediate family to live with. Interacting with TOY children give older adults companionship and a chance to pass on their knowledge to another generation.