For, lo, the winter is past, the rain is over and gone; The flowers appear on the earth; the time of the singing of birds is come, and the voice of the turtle is heard in our land; Song of Songs 2:11-12 KJV
Spring officially begins on March 20th at 4:58 p.m. CDT this year, and we are already enjoying more minutes of sunlight each day in Creve Coeur. Cardinals are singing cheerfully at the crack of dawn, and many birds are starting to pair off and build nests in anticipation of the coming warm weather seasons. With the anticipation of the end of winter growing each day, what hope can seniors get from the coming spring season?
One of the first things that comes to mind in conversations about spring is relief from winter's cold and worry about poor weather and slick outdoor surfaces. This means residents can look forward to resuming their favorite spring (and soon-to-be summer) outings and trips. The return of raising temperatures also makes going for walks more comfortable and provides a nice change of pace for seniors who haven't been able to include outdoor areas in their planned routes.
Views of colorful flowers, green grass and leafed-out trees naturally lift spirits. As spring approaches around our Autumn View Gardens community, seniors can look forward to seeing their favorite blooms again and watching for the return of butterflies. Local farmers are already starting their spring planting, and seniors who enjoy visiting farmer's markets and farm stands will soon be able to purchase fresh asparagus, spring onions and salad fixings.
Individuals with a green thumb of their own can consider using the balcony of their assisted living apartment to try growing a few flowers or plants. Vegetables do well in containers and are surprisingly easy to grow. This fun hobby also lets seniors use the summer kitchen to prepare a tasty dish once their garden has matured.
Spring break means the end of the school year is just around the corner, making it the perfect time for seniors and their grandchildren to start thinking ahead to summer vacation and planning special outings together.
Seniors whose families are unable to visit can use the excitement of school letting out as conversation starters with their grandchildren. Phone calls, video chats and emails let seniors and their grandchildren spend time together by sharing their latest activities and thoughts with each other.
The housekeeping and laundry services here at Autumn View Gardens ensure seniors don't have to worry about their apartments needing a thorough cleaning for spring. The time of year, however, does give seniors a good opportunity to go through their closets and organize cold and warm weather clothing and decorations. It also gives them a chance to get rid of unnecessary clutter and simplify their daily routine. Seniors can also give their apartment a fresh feel by adding a few colorful touches to surroundings like fashioning a decorative shade for their reading lamp or creating a pair of no-sew pillows for their favorite chair.
