Many people enjoy spending time in the garden and performing gardening chores as a way to relax. Indeed, gardening has many physical and mental health benefits, like relaxing our vision as we are surrounded by greenery and benefiting our lungs as we breathe in fresh oxygen outdoors. The rejuvenating effects of spending time with plants and flowers also make us feel more energized. However, as we grow older, many of us no longer possess the flexibility or strength to move heavy pots and gardening objects. Some may sprain their wrist if the soil is too hard or accidentally stumble over objects lying on the ground. It is important to be aware of the dangers or challenges of gardening as we get older so that we can reap the full benefits of this much-loved activity. Read on for tips on how you may practice safe gardening!
Treat Gardening like a Form of Exercise
All the walking, bending, squatting, and twisting make gardening a strenuous exercise. As such, ensure that your body is warmed up before you commence gardening. Take some time to stretch and warm up your muscles and joints so that they are well-prepared for lots of movement. Doing so increases flexibility and helps to prevent injuries. A simple full-body stretch that you can do is a forward fold that will stretch the legs and hamstrings. Stand with your feet hip-width apart, with toes pointing forward. Reach hands behind you to meet your glutes, and keeping a flat back, bend at the waist, shifting your hips backward, and feeling your weight in your heels until you feel a stretch down the back of your legs. Hold this position for 30 seconds. Repeat for three times. This exercise is bound to warm your body and ready it for gardening!
Invest in a Wagon
Owning a wagon can save you many trips between the garden and the shed, which is often located at the far end of the garden. The large, sturdy wheels of a wagon increase safety and stability compared to a wheelbarrow. You can load all the plants and gardening tools that you need and have everything ready in one trip.
Own Long-Handled Garden Tools
If you have joint problems or arthritis, such tools can save you a lot of discomfort. With their long handles, they allow you to reach corners and plants that are further from you. They also allow you to garden without too much kneeling and bending.
Be Free from the Stress of Maintenance
When you live in our retirement community, you are free from the burden of upkeeping the garden and other housekeeping chores as they are handled by our professional team. Enjoy a full range of services and amenities so that you can divert your time to fun and exciting activities. Our residents live among lush landscapes and manicured lawns without having to lift a finger. Contact us today and find out more about the stress-free lifestyle that we offer in our retirement community today!
