Green-Living Projects for the Elderly

Vegetable gardens and fruit trees are green-living projects that give back.

Green-living projects offer a fun way for the elderly to get involved in saving the planet. There are many simple projects that can be done alone or in a group setting that will have a big impact on the environment. Using recycled or second-hand materials for the projects will make them budget-friendly.

Recycling Bin Project

Recycling bins are a simple starting point if you are interested in green living. Most towns will provide free plastic recycling bins to residents, and even have scheduled pick up days, making recycling especially easy for the elderly. You will need three bins, one for paper and cardboard, one for plastic and one for metal. Remember to rinse food residues out of metal or plastic containers before placing them in the bins.

Garden Projects

A gardening project is an excellent eco-friendly activity for you and other elderly friends. This project will provide an opportunity to indulge your creativity, as well as give you added self-sufficiency. Plant a small patio garden in containers with herbs and tomatoes. Alternatively, plant a larger raised bed with various vegetables and herbs and tend it with a group of friends. Another good gardening project, which will not require as much time and labor as a garden, is to plant a fruit tree or fruit bush. Small blueberry bushes may be purchased and planted in pots for the porch if a yard is not available.

Save Energy Around Your House

Saving energy is not only good for the planet, but you will save money as well. Begin energy savings by changing out your incandescent light bulbs for fluorescent ones. Have a friend or family member change any overhead lights; you can change the light bulbs that are within easy reach, such as in lamps. Another energy saver is to set your thermostat a few degrees higher in the summer to use less air conditioning. Turning on a fan in the room can cool the space while using less energy.

Bird Feeders and Birdbaths

Setting up a bird feeder and birdbath will provide many hours of enjoyment for you and visiting guests. Providing food and a watering spot for birds will attract the birds, enrich their habitat, and quickly transform the average yard into a bird sanctuary. Bird identification can become a new hobby performed from your kitchen window. Equip yourself with a good pair of binoculars and a bird reference book.

References

• U.S. Environmental Protection Agency: Green Living
• Ohio State University Extension: Gardening with the Elderly
• Recycle Now: Start Recycling At Home In Four Easy Steps
• Bird Watching Advice: Bird Watching Can Keep Elderly People Young

Resources

• Audubon: Bird and Wildlife Information
• Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife: Living with Wildlife - Backyard Wildlife Sanctuary