Simple ways to make gardening accessible for just about anyone
Gardening can be a fun activity for everyone, regardless of age or ability and today we want to focus on some simple ways to make this fun activity safer and more inclusive.
Brian Norton, ATP, CEAS, director of assistive technology at the INDATA Project and Easterseals Crossroads, joined us Thursday to share how people can make gardening more accessible.
Accessible Gardening Tools
Add-on Handles: maximize someone’s lifting ability and minimizes the need to bend/stoop
Kneelers or Seats: help with back pain, strength and endurance
Ergonomic Tools:
Curved handles allow for better wrist position and decrease stress on tendons and joints
Telescoping tools require less stooping
Pistol grips allow for better gripping
Ratcheting pruners make cutting easier
Large-Print Rain Gauge: easier for persons who are visually impaired to view
Plant Snap App: Identify plants with your smartphone and receive information and advice on how to care for your plants
Different Types of Gardens
Raised or Vertical Garden – Take the bending and stooping out of gardening, and bring the garden up to you.
Sensory Garden – Create spaces where a garden can be enjoyed through someone’s senses. Plants of course! But also include different walkway materials, fountains, chimes, etc.
“Instant” Salad or Salsa Garden – Less mess and super easy: Buy a bag or two of potting soil, lay them on your patio, and cut an “X” in them. Then plant a tomato, pepper or other veggie, and watch them grow.
Resources:
Easterseals Crossroads equipment loan library features 2500+ items so you can try it before you buy it!
Agency Information:
Easterseals Crossroads promoting independence for persons with disabilities for the past 80 years.
The INDATA Project is dedicated to increasing awareness of and improving access to technology so persons of all ages and abilities can live, learn, work and play more independently.
Agrability Toolbox – find tools, techniques and suggestions for accessible gardening and farming.
For more information about the INDATA Project at Easterseals Crossroads, go to eastersealstech.com or call 888-466-1314.