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NCHPAD - Building Healthy Inclusive Communities

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Adapted Tools


Gardening should be fun, not a chore, so adapted tools can make it more enjoyable. Tools should be efficient, comfortable, easy to use, and long-lasting. If you have arthritis, back problems, or use a wheelchair, gardening can be achieved with the use of long-handled, lightweight, easy-grip rakes, hoes, and brooms that are designed for persons in a non-bending position. Snap-on, twist-on, or clip-on tool heads give that extra length from the sitting position. Long-handled shears designed especially for edging lawns are ideal, as are firm-grip weed pullers. Long-handled planters can assist with planting bulbs and bedding plants. Some tools come with arm support, which gives the gardener better balance and control. Trigger grip tools and ratchet pruners are ideal for those who cannot exert much pressure.

For those who can only use one hand, there are 'cut and hold' tools, which are available in various sizes for such things as light pruning and dead-heading in difficult-to-reach areas. For persons who can get down to garden, but have difficulty in getting up again, there is a kneeler/stool with raised handles. Garden centers, gardening catalogs, and specialty catalogs are good places to look for specially-adapted hand tools (See the links for some suggestions).

Provide a place for tool storage that is close to the garden, either a small shed, a cabinet, or hamper/box. Adapt tool pouches into hanging pouches that can be hung from wheelchairs, walkers, and the edges of raised beds.


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