Do Regular Flower Gifts Ease Senior Isolation

Photo by Valeria Boltneva on Pexels

Social isolation for older adults is a significant concern, particularly given the evidence linking social isolation to increased risk of depression, dementia and even chronic disease. Although it is beneficial to organize visits or schedule visits and talk, small acts of kindness yield big returns too. Sending flowers is a small yet powerful move. It can help to reduce isolation in older adults.

The Science about Connection and Small Pleasures

Social connection is a part of being human. Many older adults face obstacles to social connection such as changes in mobility or the loss of friends. Nevertheless, research shows that positive social interactions are mood enhancers and decrease isolation.

Think of brightly colored flowers that remind you of good times. A lovely bouquet might elevate your loved one’s mood and encourage them to be more active. It can relieve the stress of feeling forgotten or left out.

Flowers are not just visual delights.  Opening the flowers from a gift bag, smelling them, and arranging them are all sensory experiences that can recall sensations of the past, excitement, family connection, and even calmness.

For older adults with declining sensory skills or decreased mobility, the opportunity to benefit from sensory enjoyment in the home can provide joy to break up the isolation and inactivity.

Transitioning Flower Gifts to Sustainability

A one-off bouquet is nice, but true value lies in repeatable, predictable gestures. Scheduled flower deliveries can be a small tradition that seniors look forward to. Local senior centers, community groups, or faith-based groups can work together to make safe, repeat drop-offs.

Some workable models include:

• Monthly Bouquet Drop-Offs- Create a “flower of the month” program through local volunteers, so seniors receive fresh flowers regularly.
•  Consider Allergies. When planning to send flowers, educate yourself on sending low-pollen and less-fragrant flowers. Roses, orchids, and hydrangeas generally work out best
•  Drop-off Safely-Volunteers can place flowers on a doorstep or at a front desk for the senior. The contact is minimal, and the senior will definitely know that they received a thoughtful gift.

Community Programs and Partnerships  

Civic groups, faith communities, or senior centers can organize flower gift programs, and combine the gift of flowers with occasional social visits, online check-ins, or small get-togethers. This two-part approach, pairing sensory delight with a social exchange, will be the highest yield for mitigating social isolation. 

Organizations like BloomsyBox offer subscription and delivery plans specifically designed to create sustainability and customization. They ensure that seniors can receive thoughtful flowers, and receive them with some regularity and guaranteed quality.

Connecting from Afar

If you have family that lives far, flowers can help bridge the gap from regular visits. Flowers are a great option for birthdays, holidays, and ‘just-because’. They are excellent prompts for seniors to engage with others, a great way to stay connected.

With the use of digital options, it is easier than ever to personalize your gift. You do not have to stress over deliveries or logistics if you select a reliable delivery partner.

 Consider including small gestures like photos or handwritten notes with your flowers to improve emotional impact. Over time, such touches may support feelings of closeness to family and community.  

Endnote

Flowers are not the remedy to social isolation in seniors. But, giving flowers regularly is a simple intervention that works and has an important emotional element. Flower deliveries nurture small moments of happiness, create a habit or ritual to look forward to, and create an opportunity to strengthen a connection between the senior and their family or community.

Be mindful of allergies, schedule the deliveries appropriately, and put in some effort to make it special. Sending flowers is an easy way to demonstrate caring behavior that may complement other approaches to combat senior loneliness. Consider sending flowers with a visit, cards, or other thoughtful gesture.