Happiness Is Right Under Your Nose

A study conducted by researchers at Rutgers University in New Jersey found that the simple act of receiving a bouquet of flowers significantly increased happiness and positive moods of seniors coping with the challenges of aging. “"The results are significant because as our nation grows older and life becomes more stressful, we look for easy and natural ways to enhance our lives - and the lives of our aging parents," said Dr. Jeannette Haviland-Jones, professor of psychology and director of the Human Development Lab at Rutgers during the study. "Now, one simple answer is right under our noses."

Members of Assistance League® of Rancho San Dieguito (ALRSD) recently delivered 45 floral arrangements to several local senior care facilities including Somerford Place, Encinitas; Olivenhain Guest Home, Olivenhain; Sunrise at La Costa, Carlsbad; Vista Gardens Memory Care, Vista and Pacifica House-North County Hospice, Carlsbad. The Trader Joe’s store on El Camino Real in Encinitas donated 128 bouquets of flowers that ALRSD volunteers re-arranged into flower arrangements in vases that were then delivered to the various facilities.

Assistance League Rancho San Dieguito is an all-volunteer, nonprofit organization dedicated to making a positive difference in the lives of children and adults affected by trauma, violence and poverty. For more information about ALRSD, visit their website www.alrsd.org or Facebook page Assistance League of Rancho San Dieguito, Thrift Shop.