The Nature Engagement for Seniors Trust (N.E.S.T.) addresses isolation, cognitive decline, and inactivity among long-term care residents through structured birdwatching and nature stewardship programs. NEST provides all equipment, materials, and trained docents at no cost to facilities or families, funded entirely through grants and philanthropic support.
By giving residents a recurring, low-barrier activity that encourages observation, memory, and conversation, NEST programs support cognitive engagement and social connection while reducing the burden on facility staff to independently generate enrichment activities.
For Us, It’s Personal
I started Nature Engagement for Seniors Trust because of a brood of ducklings.
My mom suffered a devastating stroke that took her ability to read, walk, and speak. She never relearned the word “stroke.” She called it “the day I was murdered.” (AI can’t make that up!)
I cared for her at my home for a year, until a fall shattered her hip and I had to move her into a skilled nursing facility. In her final 3 months, when so much had already been taken from her, we could still sit on the deck and watch ducklings in the pond.
Slowly, other residents drifted out to join us. Together we watched the bird life, chatted, and smiled. Nature did its magic.
“Those who contemplate the beauty of the earth find reserves of strength that will endure as long as life lasts.” Rachel Carson
