#47 - Growing Older, Growing Greener: Making Gardening Safe and Accessible

Senior Safety Advice

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Gardening becomes a source of joy, purpose, and physical activity for seniors when adapted with accessibility and safety in mind. We explore how to transform gardening from a potentially difficult chore into a delightful, beneficial activity regardless of age or physical limitations.
• Physical benefits include gentle exercise, vitamin D exposure, and nutritious harvests
• Design accessible gardens using raised beds, container gardening, and vertical planting
• Create safe pathways that are wide, flat, non-slip, and well-lit
• Choose low-maintenance plants like perennial herbs, succulents, and native species
• Design sensory gardens with plants chosen for fragrance, texture, taste, and sound
• Use ergonomic, lightweight tools with padded handles to reduce strain
• Practice safety by working in short sessions, stretching before gardening, and staying hydrated
• Explore alternatives like tabletop gardens, terrariums, and community gardening
• Connect with gardening through shows and podcasts even when you can't physically garden
Please subscribe to our podcast and share the episode with a friend. Let us know your favorite gardening stories or hacks!
For more information about aging in place and caregiving for older adults, visit our website at SeniorSafetyAdvice.com

Chapters

1. Welcome to Senior-Friendly Gardening (00:00:00)

2. Health Benefits of Gardening (00:01:16)

3. Designing Accessible Garden Spaces (00:02:49)

4. Choosing Low-Maintenance Plants (00:05:03)

5. Tools and Gadgets for Easier Gardening (00:07:07)

6. Safety Tips and Injury Prevention (00:08:38)

7. Alternative Gardening Options (00:10:43)

8. Closing Thoughts and Encouragement (00:11:49)