Short Description

Gardening is a very satisfying hobby for many people. Normal body
changes associated with ageing and various disabling physical
conditions can inhibit the enjoyment derived from gardening. The use
of suitable regular or specialized tools can make the tasks easier and
restore the enjoyment. Use these suggestions when buying conventional tools, or explore the specialized options.

More Details

. Points to consider when buying hand tools for the garden :
* Type of tools appropriate for the required jobs (eg. spade, fork, hoe
rake, pruning shears, secateurs, weeder, trowel)
* Length and grip of handle; (leverage is greater with long handle)
* Weight
* Size and shape of head of tool (small and sharp tools may be easier)
* Ease of use
* Durability
* Versatility; can it be used for more than one task?
* Amount of balance and strength required to use tool
* Feasibility of use in sitting position
* Feasibility of use left handed / one handed

. Suggestions for those who experience pain, weakness or stiffness :
* Stainless steel tools are easier to keep clean and when clean move
through the soil more easily.
* Use weed killer rather than pull out weeds.
* Explore no dig vegetable growing.
* Do not stay kneeling for long periods.
* Raised garden beds eliminate the need to bend.
* Long reach tools are available.
* Choose, or change to, low maintenance plants.
* It is possible to get enlarged handles / grips for commercially
available tools.
* Self watering pots eliminate watering.
* Automatic timers can be put on to sprinklers / sprinkler systems.
* A trolley can be used to wheel tools and other gardening equipment
around.
* Tool handles can be built up to make them easier to grasp.
* Ensure that any safety catches on eg. Secateurs are easy to operate.
* Hydroponic gardening (without soil) may be easier.
* Garden kneelers assist people move up from and down to the kneeling position and improve kneeling comfort.
* Thick, pliable garden ties are available which eliminate the need for
tying knots in string etc.
* Tools can be adapted with velcro for one handed use.

. Suggestions for people who use a wheelchair:
* A wheelchair can be equipped with pockets or spring clips to carry
gardening equipment.
* A path of bricks can be hidden in the lawn to take the weight of the
wheelchair.
* A long handled tool is available which has a scissor action rubbish
scoop on the end.

. For further information, talk to one of the listed suppliers.

. We are pleased to receive feedback on the information we provide....
If there is something we should add or need to change, please let us know.
. These are general suggestions - if you experience considerable
difficulty in performing gardening tasks, consult an occupational
therapist at a community health centre or aged care assessment team, make an appointment with the ILC, or talk to the Horticultural
Therapist at the Telopea Centre, Ryde TAFE.

Standards

Some assistive technology needs to meet Australian or other standards. Standards may relate to materials, manufacturing and installation. Products that meet Australian or international standards will have written certification. To find out if a product meets Australian Standards ask the supplier to show you the certificate. For a fact sheet about standards contact us or visit www.ilcaustralia.org/home/standards.asp