People of all ages, especially older people, can find fulfillment and pleasure in gardening. Not only does gardening help supplement their pantry, but it also helps keeps seniors active. Unfortunately, aging often comes with a decline in physical capabilities and mobility, making gardening more difficult. However, with the help of loved ones, in-home care professionals, and a good plan, seniors can continue their gardening habit.
Keep reading to learn how to make gardening easier for your senior and why activities like gardening are beneficial.
Tips and Tricks for Making Gardening Easier
There are many products available that make gardening easier for seniors. In-home care providers can assist seniors in choosing which items might be best for them depending on what they want to grow and how much space they have.
Raised beds: Raised beds are easier to access and decrease the bending or kneeling typically required in gardening. These beds can be built or purchased at a height that is convenient for seniors, allowing them to garden while standing or sitting on a stool.
- Lightweight tools: Ergonomically designed tools with padded handles help alleviate hand and wrist strain. Trowels, pruners, and cultivators constructed of lightweight materials like aluminum or plastic are a few examples of lightweight tools. In-home care providers can take your senior shopping for gardening tools and accessories.
- Choose long-handled tools: Long-handled tools expand the reach of a senior gardener, allowing them to work while standing or sitting when raised beds are not utilized. Some examples of long-handed tools are hoes, rakes, and shovels.
- Invest in a gardening cart: A gardening cart makes it easier for seniors to move plants, equipment, or soil around the garden. When shopping, pick a cart that has durable wheels and easy-to-grip handles. The care should also be balanced well so seniors can manage it easily.
- Get creative: Seniors might not have the space for raised beds or have difficulty being outside for extended periods due to breathing issues or overheating. In this case, consider alternative ways to garden, such as creating a container garden, an indoor herb garden, vertical options, or even a hydroponic growing system.
- Purchase items that help make gardening easier: Seniors will need something comfortable to assist them in sitting or kneeling while gardening. A garden kneeler or cushioned stool can provide the support they need. Some products do double duty, allowing kneeling on one side and sitting on the other.
- Encourage breaks and hydration: Even when the sun isn’t at its peak, gardening can be a hot and strenuous activity. Since seniors dehydrate easier, having access to water is key. In-home care providers can encourage seniors to stop and stretch every so often and drink plenty of water.
With the correct equipment and know-how, gardening can be a delightful hobby for seniors. This is extremely important as seniors need to remain mentally and physically engaged as they navigate this stage of their lives. Loved ones and in-home care providers can support these activities by ensuring seniors have everything they need.
Source:
https://morningchores.com/gardening-for-seniors/
https://seniorsafetyadvice.com/safe-gardening-tips-for-seniors/
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/special/accessible/gardens-for-senior-citizens.htm
If you or an aging loved one is considering in-home care in Parker, CO, please contact the caring staff at SYNERGY Home Care of Parker. 303-953-9924
