Senior-Friendly Gardening Tips

People of all ages can develop a green thumb. And thanks to the tropical weather, Cape Coral, FL, is the perfect place to grow a lush, thriving garden.

Gardening is an enriching and fulfilling activity for seniors. It gets you outside and into the fresh air and promotes physical activity. Growing flowers, herbs, or veggies also gives older adults tremendous self-satisfaction. Looking at something beautiful you created with your own two hands is truly rewarding.

Ready to plant your own garden? Follow these quick safety tips to make your time outdoors as enjoyable as possible. 

Get the Right Gear 

Before you start digging, it's essential to buy the right gardening tools. At a minimum, you’ll need a rake, hand trowel, shovel, digging fork, pruners, and gardening gloves.

Be mindful of the size, weight, and grip of each tool you buy. You should always ensure the tools you select are the right ones for you. This prevents discomfort and injuries.

Your tools should be light enough to carry easily and have handles with good grip. If you have arthritis, opt for gardening tools designed for arthritic hands.

Additionally, it is a good idea to buy a supportive gardening kneeling pad that doubles as a seat. This gives you an accessible spot to rest for quick breaks. 

The best places to buy gardening supplies in Cape Coral, FL, are Home Depot, 2508 Skyline Boulevard, and Lowe’s, 285 Southwest 25th Lane.

Protect Your Skin from the Sun 

Unless you choose to grow an indoor herb garden, you’ll be spending a lot of time outdoors under the sun. It’s crucial for seniors to take the proper measures to safeguard their skin from the sun’s UV rays.

Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher at least 20 minutes before heading outside. Reapply every two hours. For additional protection, wear UV-filtering sunglasses, a wide-brimmed hat, and long-sleeved, light-colored clothing.

Don’t Forget to Stretch 

Some seniors may fail to remember how much physical activity gardening involves. Not only will you be kneeling, but you’ll be digging, raking, watering, and potting.

Do a couple of gentle stretching exercises before getting to work. Stretch your arms, legs, and back. Slow, gentle neck and shoulder rolls can loosen up tight muscles. 

Stay Hydrated

Working in hot summer temperatures can increase your risk of dehydration. Always have a large water bottle on hand, and drink from it regularly. Seniors have reduced feelings of thirst, making them more susceptible to dehydration. It’s smart to set an alarm on your phone as a gentle reminder to consume fluids while you garden. 

Get Some Help from Visiting Angels of Cape Coral, FL 

Sometimes, a little help in the garden goes a long way. Visiting Angels of Cape Coral, FL, provides personalized in-home caregiving services to seniors throughout Cape Coral, North Fort Myers, and the surrounding areas. Our caregivers can assist you with light housekeeping, transportation, medication management, and more.

Contact us today at 239-226-1620 for more information. We’re excited to hear from you!