Falls in the garden

Most of my client’s are over 75. A fair few are over 80 and one is in her 90’s.

They’re all still active to varying degrees, and employ me because some of the physical aspects of gardening are a bit much now.

As a gardener, you won’t be surprised to hear that I’m a huge advocate of being outdoors. I think the wellbeing benefits of just being in a green space are significant and I would absolutely encourage everyone to get outside if you can.

But in the last fortnight, three of my clients have had falls in their own or a friends’ garden. Thankfully no serious injuries, but some nasty bruising of both skin and confidence.

Much has been written on how to improve the safety of gardens for older people (raised beds, flat surfaces, hand rails etc.) which are great and make a lot of sense, but these cost money or take time to implement and may not work with the style of garden you want or have loved for many years.

So beyond making structural changes to the garden, what can you do to be safer in the garden? (You’ll probably already know these, but doesn’t hurt to reinforce!).

Not walking with your hands clasped behind your back. Hard to stop, I do it too. But it really affects your ability to get your hands down in time to reduce the impact of a fall. Similarly if you habitually put your hands in your pockets.

Keeping paths as clear of “stuff” as possible. Hosepipes, piles of plastic plant pots and old compost bags are notable offenders here!

Taking your walking stick if you have one when you go out. Or consider getting one just for the garden to leave by the back door.

Being mindful. Again, easier said than done, especially if you’re focused on what you’re planning to do, but try to be conscious of the ground you’re stepping on to get there.

With all that said, it’s worth pointing out that according to data from TakingCare, the garden actually only accounts for 12% of falls*, with most happening inside the home itself.

So while it’s sensible to take precautions, the garden shouldn’t be a no-go area.

*Elderly Falls and NHS Healthcare Report | TakingCare