Gardening with Special Needs, Health Issues

Do you love to garden but are unable to because of health problems or other issues? Perhaps you become fatigued easily or suffer from back problems. Health problems can make gardening a physically demanding task rather than a pleasurable experience. But it doesn't have to be this way. Done in moderation and with the right tools, gardening can actually be beneficial for people with special needs.

One of the best ways to prevent strained backs or achy muscles as you garden is through warm-up exercises beforehand. Just as with swimming and other major activities, don't try to eat prior to gardening. Instead, wait a few hours to allow your food to settle. It always helps to begin gardening tasks early, especially during summer. Don't try to go out in the mid-afternoon. You'll only run the risk of becoming overheated and exhausted. You should also drink plenty of fluids to keep hydrated and take frequent breaks, especially if you become dizzy. Pace all of your gardening activities and save the strenuous gardening chores, like digging or hoeing, for someone else who can better handle them. You should focus more on the lighter side of gardening, such as cutting flowers or watering. There are also many gardening crafts you could look into, such as flower arranging and garden art.

I am a stickler for raised beds, especially when it comes to special needs. Raised beds are great for those who require sitting. They also reduce the need for bending and walking, as everything remains within easy reach. Container gardening is another alternative for people with special needs. Both garden beds and containers should be placed close to the home, as should storage areas, for easier access. Set up a special potting area for plant propagation. This may be made up of nothing more than a piece of plywood attached to sawbucks. Not only is it ideal for seated gardeners, but it also provides plenty of room for getting around and everything you need can be within easy reach, from potting soil and plants to soil.

In the event that you may require assistance, always keep a phone nearby. Thanks to cordless and mobile phones, this is an easy thing to do. Also, take advantage of technological devices that can make gardening chores easier. For instance, there are now many garden tools available that are specifically adapted for gardeners with special needs. Some have special handles for those suffering with arthritis, carpal tunnel, or weak arms. Others are equipped with attachments for easier gripping and holding. There are even special extendable tools for gardeners in wheel chairs or those who cannot stand for extended periods. Lightweight tools are also available and much better than heavier types, which only enhance exhaustion and unwanted stress. Other strategies for the special needs gardener may include the use of padded kneelers or stools while performing routine maintenance chores, such as weeding. To keep small hand tools within easy reach, try placing them in apron pockets or tote them around in a specially designed garden cart.

There are many options for special needs gardeners today. Of course, you should always check with your doctor to determine the level of excursion that is safest for you and make sure there is always somebody on standby that is aware of your health limitations. Health problems need not be the end of gardening pleasure. Practicing a few simple guidelines and using the right equipment for the job can make the gardening experience every bit as enjoyable as it was before.