Elderly Garden Design
Creating a Garden that’s Beautiful and Easy to Maintain for Seniors
There’s a newfound appreciation of staying independent at home as we age, and an important aspect of this independence is the outdoor environment – our yards, gardens, and landscapes. Elderly garden design that is suitable for seniors encompasses practicality, safety, and enjoyment. With careful planning, you can turn an ordinary outdoor space into a place for relaxation, exercise, and interaction with nature.
Key Takeaways
What to Consider For a Elderly Garden Design
Accessibility
Safety
Maintenance
Comfort & Rest
Engaging Senses
Wild Life
Accessibility
Access is so important for Elderly Garden Design. Walkways should be wide, flat, and clear of any obstacles. Ramps can replace steps where possible, and handrails can provide additional support. All areas of the garden should be easily accessible to encourage interaction with nature.
Safety
Safety is paramount. Illuminate paths and walkways to avoid trips and falls after dark. Slip-resistant surfaces can add an extra layer of safety.
Maintenance
As we age, physical tasks can become challenging. Opt for low-maintenance plants, shrubs, and trees. Consider hiring a regular gardener or using a robot lawn mower to take care of more strenuous tasks.
Comfort & Rest
Provide comfortable seating areas with adequate shade for rest and relaxation. Ensure that these areas are easy to get in and out of.
Engaging Senses
Incorporate plants that stimulate the senses, such as fragrant flowers and textured foliage. Raised garden beds or pots can bring plants closer to hand level, encouraging interaction.
Wild Life
Attracting birds and butterflies can bring much joy. Consider bird baths, feeders, and butterfly-attracting plants.
Checklist for a Senior Suitable Landscape Design:
Wide, flat, clear walkways
Ramps replacing steps
Handrails for additional support
Illuminated pathways and walkways
Slip-resistant surfaces
Low-maintenance plants, shrubs and trees
Regular gardening service or robot lawn mower
Comfortable seating areas
Adequate shade
Sensory plants (fragrant or textured)
Raised garden beds or pots
Bird baths and feeders
Butterfly-attracting plants
Cultivating a senior-friendly landscape is an investment in the quality of life and independence of our senior population. As we move towards a future where ageing in place becomes more common, it’s so important to know how to and create safe, accessible, and enjoyable outdoor spaces.