Augustana Mercy resident gardeners find joy in the fruits (and vegetables) of their labors

Now that fall is here, residents in memory care at Augustana Mercy Health Care Center are picking cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, radishes, and corn in their own garden. Some weeks back, they enjoyed coleslaw from fresh cabbage and each day brings something new. Besides fresh produce, gardening provides fresh topics of conversation, as residents see tangible results of their labors throughout the summer.

“People love to plant vegetables and see them grow,” says Director of Nursing Brenda Liker. “The patio and garden is right outside of the main dining room so it’s easily visible. It just brings us a lot of joy.”

The garden also flies in the face of stereotypical notions about people with dementia. Residents pull weeds and pick vegetables while one resident’s husband checks the garden daily to see what vegetables are ripe for picking. “The residents here really pulled together and created a work of beauty,” says Administrator Steve Mork. “And of course, it’s delicious, too.”

Registered Nursing Assistants Bev Horwath and Lisa Radzak (pictured L-R) were most involved with the garden and residents this season, and say everyone enjoyed their time together while waiting for the vegetables to grow. Though warm weather will give way to winter in a few months, Bev and Lisa are already tossing around ideas for next spring’s garden.

The memory care wing at Augustana Mercy is guided by Augustana Care’s team of memory care experts, who provide ongoing support for program consultation, staff training and development. Through specialized training and individualized care plans, we apply care principles and activities well suited to residents’ abilities. Caregivers partner with residents to maximize skills and abilities. The goal of this partnership is active engagement and participation in activities that include gardening and growing vegetables.

If you’re interested in volunteering at the health care center, please call 218-351-9414. If you’re hungry for a tomato, carrots or coleslaw—even better.

Tags: health, business, food, updates