Make your elderly loved-one’s home healthier with houseplants

If you have an elderly relative or friend that spends a lot of time at home, there is a way you can help them be healthier – by filling their home with houseplants.

Having houseplants dotted around the home can be great for helping people to de-stress, detox and they can filter out chemicals, such as cigarette smoke, from the atmosphere.

They also help improve air quality, relax and revive you mentally and physically, and can help reduce dust, which saves on the housework.

If your elderly loved-one isn’t able to get out into the garden, or doesn’t have one, then houseplants are a great alternative for adding lovely bursts of colour to the home and bringing a smile to your relative’s face.

The right indoor plants could reduce susceptibility to stress, allergies, asthma, fatigue, headaches and respiratory congestion.

Poor natural ventilation, synthetic furnishings and human bioeffluents are the three primary sources of poor air quality within homes.

National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) tests revealed that Weeping fig, Boston fern, peace lily, chrysanthemum, gerbera and parlour palm are the best for removing chemical toxins like formaldehyde, which is emitted from sources such as adhesives, fabrics, facial tissues, grocery bags and upholstery.

So, why not pick up a houseplant for your elderly loved-one next time you’re at your local garden centre? They not only make lovely gifts, but can keep your relative healthier too.

If you would like more help and advice on keeping your loved-one healthy, you can read our tips on how to keep the heart healthier, tips for the elderly to eat well and healthy drink ideas for the elderly.