Fall brings cooler temperatures and the scenic change of the seasons, making it the perfect time to get outside in the garden. However, it’s important for older adults to prioritize their physical health and safety, so there are certain things seniors should keep in mind before they get started.
Fortunately, The Medicare Helpline is here to help seniors get the most out of their fall gardening. In this article, we’ll review tips to make fall gardening easy and enjoyable, including choosing low-maintenance plants and finding the right tools as an older adult.
Choose Low-Maintenance Flowers and Shrubs
If you’re planning to welcome some new additions to your garden this fall, it’s smart to choose plants that don’t require significant upkeep. This ensures you can enjoy the natural beauty of your garden without too much strain or effort. For example, seniors may want to choose plants that will remain hardy throughout the change of the seasons, particularly if they live in an area that experiences hard freezes.
It can also be beneficial to choose low-maintenance flowers or shrubs that don’t require much pruning or hands-on care, which will make it easier to maintain your garden even if you’re a senior who experiences mobility challenges.
Use the Right Tools
While getting out in the garden is a great way for seniors to remain active, you’ll want to make sure that you’re using the right tools to avoid injury or strain. Here are some modifications for seniors to consider to ensure they stay safe while gardening:
Use a wagon, rather than a wheelbarrow, to transport plants and tools around the yard. This will limit the amount of lifting and pushing you’ll need to do when gathering your supplies.
If you have mobility issues, long-handled gardening tools can help limit the amount you need to bend and kneel when working in the garden.
Placing benches or chairs throughout your garden can offer an easy and convenient place to rest while working outside.
When doing gardening tasks that require kneeling, use a cushion or knee pad to stay more comfortable and prevent joint pain.
Raised beds may make it easier for seniors to care for their plants without significant bending, stooping, or needing to frequently get up and down from the ground.
Use protective clothing, like a sun hat or SPF shirt, as well as sunscreen to protect your skin while working outside.
Make Gardening a Social Activity
Regular socialization is important for seniors, as it helps combat isolation and can improve both cognition and physical health. Plus, engaging in a shared hobby and working towards a common goal can boost mood and reduce stress. Gardening with a friend, spouse, or other loved one can not only benefit your mental and physical well-being, but can also act as a safety measure by ensuring you have company while spending long periods of time outdoors.
Explore More Lifestyle Advice From The Medicare Helpline
Gardening is just one way to spend time outdoors and engage in meaningful social activity. Whether you’re looking to get into gardening this fall or simply want to explore other ways to support your health and longevity, The Medicare Helpline can help. For more tips and insights on aging with ease, explore our Lifestyle articles which offer tips and guidance to keep you happy, healthy, and well.
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