A Greener Future at Home: Why Artificial Grass Is Perfect for Aging in Place

Many people dream of remaining independent in their own homes as they age. This concept, called “aging in place,” is becoming increasingly popular across the US.

Aging in place involves modifying your home and surroundings to ensure safety, accessibility, and comfort for the foreseeable future. This might include installing bathroom grab bars, widening doorways, or switching to one-story living. 

Landscaping choices can significantly impact your ability to age comfortably at home. 

Natural Lawns Can Be Unsafe for Older Individuals

Traditional lawns, while beautiful, require a surprising amount of physical exertion to maintain. Mowing, weeding, and edging can become difficult tasks for aging individuals.

Not only is it physically demanding, but uneven terrain, hidden roots, muddy areas, and slippery surfaces (especially when wet) can pose serious fall risks. Falls are one of the leading causes of injury and hospitalization in older adults and a poorly maintained lawn can dramatically increase those risks.

Additionally, many lawn care routines involve potentially harmful chemicals, such as fertilizers, herbicides, and pesticides. These chemicals can linger on the grass, potentially creating health and skin sensitivity concerns for seniors or those with compromised immune systems.

Artificial Turf and Aging in Place

In contrast, FieldTurf artificial grass offers several advantages that make it a safer and more practical landscaping choice for aging in place:

• Reduced Physical Strain: Artificial grass eliminates the need for mowing, weeding, and fertilizing. This translates to less time spent bending, kneeling, and lifting, which can become increasingly challenging with age.

• Improved Safety: Artificial grass provides a consistent surface, reducing the risk of trips and falls. You can also add extra support with foam padding and infill materials that provide a softer landing in case of accidents.

• Accessibility: Traditional lawns can become overgrown and difficult to navigate. Artificial grass remains consistently even and allows for easy maneuvering of walkers, wheelchairs, and other mobility aids.

• Year-Round Beauty: Unlike natural grass, artificial turf stays green and lush all year round, regardless of the season or weather conditions. This eliminates the worry of dead patches or muddy walkways during wet seasons.

• Versatility: Artificial grass doesn’t mean giving up on your love for natural elements. It can be easily integrated with raised garden beds for vegetables or flowers, potted plants, and other natural landscaping features. The stable surface makes it easier to work on these gardening projects comfortably and safely.

It’s important to note that artificial grass does come with an initial investment. However, the long-term savings on maintenance, combined with the safety and accessibility benefits, can make it a worthwhile choice for those planning to age in place.

Learn More

At FieldTurf Landscape, everyone deserves to enjoy their home for as long as possible. If you want to create a safe, comfortable, and beautiful outdoor living space that supports the goal of aging in place, artificial grass might be the perfect choice. 

Call 866-352-4575 or message us to learn more about your options. We can also recommend FieldTurf Landscape dealers and installers near you.