Senior-friendly outdoor spaces are essential in every functional society. These encourage the elderly to get some much-needed sunlight and exercise, delaying the onset or worsening of age-related ailments. Gardens are some of the safest locations for them to explore and admire nature. There’s nothing quite like a partly shaded bench, beneath the eaves of a flowering tree, on which to knit a grandchild’s gloves or ponder some of life’s best memories! Gardens for the elderly should ideally be easy to navigate, have many seating areas, and be free of tripping hazards.
Provide clear and well-defined pathways for walking along the length of the garden. These are especially ideal in large landscapes. To encourage more time spent appreciating plants or observing pollinators, some of the paths can weave around plots of flowering stands.
2)
For relatively easy navigation, the elderly-friendly garden should be mostly flat. Though slopes and small hills can make for a visually appealing landscape, they can act as tripping hazards. A flat surface would be wheelchair- and walker-friendly.
3)
If the garden has multiple levels, ensure that any steps or ramps have rails. Anyone who needs a helping hand for balance or support would be grateful for these!
4)
Ample seating in central points of gathering is great for a mid-morning chat or a quick rest during an afternoon stroll. A conversation piece, such as a fountain or artistic sculpture, can encourage more introspection and friendly discussions among seniors.
5)
Ensure that there are partly-shaded spaces with sturdy outdoor furniture. Protection from direct heat is crucial throughout the year. Though a moderate amount of sun is healthy for all ages, we don’t want our beloved seniors to get sunburned in summer!
6)
Raised beds are perfect for encouraging gardening for all ages. Prop a chair or bench next to these so that one can till the soil and propagate seedlings without having to strain one’s back.
7)
A raised plot, with an edge that is sturdy enough to sit on, is also great for relaxed gardening. This eliminates the need to kneel on the ground or squat in order to outplant tufts of annuals or uproot deciduous tubers.
8)
Construct an ornamental pond with raised edges. A wide, smooth, and sturdy edge is preferable as one can comfortably sit or lean on it while observing the pond’s fish and admiring aquatic plants.
9)
Railing, such as those typically found in stables, along the edges of larger gardens or landscapes should help assist the elderly if they are tired after a long walk.
10)
For areas that are frequented by senior visitors, consider placing benches right next to the path. These are crucial for aiding in recovery from sudden bouts of tiredness or vertigo.
11)
Pots of highly favored herbs and blooms can be placed in upright stands. From a structure like this, an elderly chef should face no issues plucking fresh ingredients for culinary creations.
12)
Cover trellises with a wealth of trailing stems for dappled light. These should keep main pathways and outdoor eating spaces cast in shade. It should also help shield them from light rain.
13)
Gardens for the elderly should be wheelchair-friendly. As some seniors might prefer to wheel themselves up or down ramps without assistance, a smooth and sturdy slope with a low angle is ideal.
14)
For easy garden maintenance, use slow-spreading ground plants that don’t require much in terms of care and resources. Elderly homeowners are most likely to appreciate these as they won’t have to tend to them too frequently.
15)
Situate hanging baskets at arm’s height. The trailing stems can quickly be trimmed or plucked without having to remove the entire basket, stand on one’s tiptoes, or bend over for extended periods of time.
16)
Gardens that are frequented by many seniors should have plants placed at multiple heights. A combination of pots, hanging baskets, and containers should ensure that everyone can appreciate a wealth of leaf forms and colors at eye height.
17)
Construct a vertical stand for fruiting crops. This is great for encouraging the elderly to pick fresh berries to go with afternoon refreshments!
18)
If you have elderly family members who are particularly keen on gardening, build them a small greenhouse. This should keep both them and their precious plants sheltered from the elements on harsh days.
19)
Use a rug to keep benches warm and comfortable during winter days. No one likes a cold, hard seat! A rug or simply a large piece of soft, thick cloth should be enough to cozy up garden furniture.
20)
Throw pillows can also be used to add charm and an element of comfort to wooden or metal benches. Elderly visitors can adjust these to increase their comfort. Do make sure to transfer the pillows indoors during rainy days.
21)
If your garden’s space permits it, allot a large open space where seniors can play with their grandkids. During family gatherings, these spaces allow them to humbly bask in the companionship of multiple generations.
22)
There’s nothing quite like functional and timeless décor to bring a smile to the faces of one’s grandparents. A weatherproof sundial, for example, should have one reminiscing simpler times while, perhaps, marveling at the wisdom of ancient civilizations.
23)
Adjustable reclining chairs can encourage brief, outdoor naps. Those with attachments for a matching canopy are fantastic as they can provide shade too! Once temperatures drop, however, don’t forget to rouse napping seniors and urge them to move indoors to keep warm.
24)
In winter, a portable furnace can help keep the elderly warm if they wish to spend a few hours in the garden. Bonus points if you manage to find one that matches the surrounding plants. Make sure to keep the furnace away from any flammable items, such as blankets and table covers.
25)
Grow springtime flowers to brighten up everyone’s day. Flowering plants have the power to put a smile on anyone’s face, often reminding them that life is renewed after the chilliest of winters.
Final Thoughts
As we tend to grow wiser through the years, the elderly are best at appreciating the small things. They tend to enjoy spending time in diverse gardens. Whether they live in their own home or within assisted living facilities, you’ll want to make sure they have access to safe, easily navigable outdoor spaces. When designing a senior-friendly garden, try to incorporate elements that can boost their motor skills, shelter them from heat or rain, and reduce overall tiredness or stress.
