Your garden can often be your sanctuary, a place to unwind, close to all the amenities you could need, but with the benefits of beautiful scenery and much-needed fresh air.
As you age, it can become harder to navigate your garden, but with simple steps, you can prepare it for enjoyment in later life. This will involve designing and maintaining it so that it remains enjoyable, manageable, and safe.
Whether you’re planning for yourself or someone else, the goal is to create a low-maintenance, accessible space that supports physical limitations while still providing the joys a garden can offer.
How to make a garden accessible?
- Build raised garden beds or use large pots to reduce bending and kneeling. Aim for a height of 24-36 inches, depending on whether you’ll be sitting or standing.
- Install smooth, non-slip paths at least 3-4 feet wide to accommodate wheelchairs, walkers, or unsteady steps. Where possible, add gentle slopes instead of stairs or install a ramp.
- Include benches or chairs around the garden so there are plenty of resting spots.
What are low-maintenance plants?
- Perennials: Opt for plants like lavender, daylilies, or hostas that return yearly without replanting.
- Select plants suited to your local climate as they require less watering and care. Lincolnshire Wildlife Trust is a brilliant place to research flower types.
- Succulents, ornamental grasses, or yarrow all cut down on watering needs.
Skip plants that need frequent pruning, watering, staking, or pest control, as this extra work can be time-consuming and sometimes tiring.
How to minimise garden upkeep?
- Apply 2-3 inches of organic mulch (e.g., bark or shredded leaves) to suppress weeds and retain moisture.
- Install a simple drip system or soaker hoses with a timer to automate watering.
- Replace some grass with hardscaped areas to eliminate excessive mowing.
- If you enjoy relaxing in the garden but aren’t bothered by gardening as a pastime, hire a gardener or ask family to help with the garden upkeep if it becomes too much.
Simplify Tools and Tasks
- Use ergonomic, long-handled tools to reduce strain. Look for telescopic pruners and lightweight watering cans.
- Keep a small shed or weatherproof box nearby to avoid carrying tools far.
- Focus on a compact garden area rather than sprawling beds to limit the workload.
How to be safe in the garden?
- Add solar-powered path lights or motion-sensor LEDs for evening use.
- Define borders with visible edging to prevent tripping.
- Plant trees or install a gazebo for protection from the sun or rain for extended garden use.
Ways to adapt a garden for later life
- Use trellises, wall planters, or hanging baskets for plants like tomatoes or herbs, minimising the need to bend.
- Incorporate fragrant plants (e.g., rosemary), textured foliage, or wind chimes to engage the senses if vision or mobility declines.
Start Early
Begin these changes while you’re still active. Gradually transition the garden over time, testing what works. For example, replace one labour-intensive bed with a raised one each season.
Practical Tips
- Ensure good drainage and enrich the soil with compost now to support plants long-term.
- Use durable tags to label plants so you (or others) can identify them later.
- Look into local gardening clubs to support you in socialising and combat loneliness which can be a common concern in later life.
This approach balances practicality with pleasure, letting you garden comfortably well into later years. For more information on mobility aids for your garden and home, such as ramps and stairlifts, contact a member of our friendly team on 01427 787532.
