Our Ask An Angel correspondent is Arlene Petersen, Certified Senior Advisor and Life Care Navigation Specialist in the area of senior home care.
Q. I miss doing some of the gardening I used to do when I lived in my own home. I can’t move like I used to, but I don’t want to give up working in the garden. Any suggestions?
A. After this long winter, I am ready to play in the dirt this spring! I also know I haven’t moved about during the winter months and I might feel it when I get my spade out. It is with this in mind that I want to encourage you to do a few things before you start gardening, which is totally possible where you live now! Container gardening is the ideal situation to bring God’s creation into your surroundings. Nature sparks peace and tranquility to us, doesn’t it?
Before starting any outdoor project, make sure you warm up! It may sound silly, but stretch. Yes, stretch. Try simple chair exercises so you don’t pull something as you work. Wear gloves, and if it is cold outside, make sure you dress properly. With our weather, you just never know! Keep your skin protected from the sun and wear sun screen or long sleeves and a hat. Make sure your clothing is breathable so you don’t overheat. Stay hydrated and keep a water bottle close by. Shift positions every so often so you don’t feel strain from staying in one spot too long. Take breaks and move around! Remember there are adaptive tools that can help you reach and dig. Research before you purchase by speaking with an occupational therapist. They can show you what will work best for you before you invest. They are a good investment. You might consider container gardening that can be placed on a raised surface so you don’t have to do too much bending. Start small and try not to get overly ambitious with planting. Know your limits and don’t overdo it. A prime time to work in the garden is after a soft rain. The soil is easier to work with and you won’t have to exert as much energy into your projects.
If you start your gardening projects and realize you don’t have the energy or stamina to complete the task, consider the option of having a caregiver by your side to help you with your project. It can be a temporary arrangement that will help you enjoy the fruits of your labor!
Have a question for our angel correspondent? You can send our angel an email to apetersen@visitingangels.com or send your question via mail to Ask An Angel, 65 Woodbury St., South Elgin, IL 60177.
