Gardening is an excellent hobby that many seniors can continue to enjoy as they age. It's a great way to get outside, enjoy nature, and stay active, all from the comfort and safety of home. However, as seniors age, they may find their previous garden arrangements no longer comfortable. They may struggle more to get down and work with the plants.
Fortunately, there are several strategies you can use to continue to make gardening comfortable and accessible.
Install Raised Beds
Raised garden beds can help prevent seniors from having to bend over or kneel to pull up weeds, pick fruits and vegetables, and take care of the garden. Often, that simple step can go a long way toward making the garden much more comfortable.
Try a Potted Garden
If raised beds aren't convenient or cost-effective, consider the benefits of potted plants in the garden. Many plants can grow and thrive in pots, which can be placed at a reasonable height for seniors.
Swap Out Heavy Tools
Using heavy tools in the garden can become increasingly difficult as seniors age. Making the switch to lighter-weight tools can make the whole gardening process more comfortable and convenient. Test tools for durability. Look for tools that are easy to grip for seniors who may struggle with shaking hands or arthritis.
Choose Plants With Care
When choosing plants for a senior's garden, consider plants that require less overall maintenance and attention: for example, those that may not require aggressive pruning, or those that may survive all right if they don't receive as much attention.
Accessible Seating in the Garden Area
Take the time to set up a comfortable area that is easily accessible from the garden. It must be where seniors can go to sit down and, ideally, get some shade when they've been out in the sun working in the garden for a long period of time. During the hottest days of summer, consider making sure there is water readily accessible in that area, as well.
Install Wheels on Needed Equipment or Heavy Items
If you have heavy items that need to be moved on a regular basis, make sure you have wheels to help move them. Wheeled racks, trays, or wheelbarrows can help make those items more accessible to many seniors and minimize the amount of heavy lifting they have to do. Wheeled plant stands can also make it easier to shift plants around as needed.
Gardening is an excellent activity for many seniors. As physical ability declines, however, many seniors may find that they need additional support to help make gardening more convenient and accessible. With these strategies, you can make it easier for seniors to enjoy their gardens while aging in place.
Need more help with a senior loved one, or an increased amount of help at home as you age? At Senior Helpers, we help provide the vital support that makes it possible for you to age in the comfort and convenience of your own home. Contact us today to learn more about the services we can offer.