A mower is a machine that cuts grass with the help of revolving blades. This important tool keeps the garden, lawn, and yard looking well-maintained. It primarily comes in three types: manual, ride-on, and self-propelled. What’s more, some can even be remotely operated. That said, most types of lawn mowers tend to be bulky and difficult to maneuver, especially for seniors. So, they must invest in a machine that meets their specific requirements.
Factors to consider when choosing a lawn mower
There are many reasons why seniors might want to consider mowing their lawns. For example, trimming and mowing the lawn is a great form of physical exercise. Approximately 15–20 minutes of this activity can yield better results than walking a mile. Plus, it engages all muscle groups, and the repetitive nature of the task allows the mind to relax. Not only that, spending 20 minutes out in nature while mowing the lawn can increase seniors’ energy levels. Additionally, hiring a lawn mower service might not be the best idea in terms of finances, especially since it is a recurring expense. So, seniors can consider mowing their own lawns. That said, it is important for seniors to choose the right lawn mower to avoid causing physical strain. There are multiple types of lawn mowers available, and seniors can choose one depending on their needs and budget. Factoring a few things can help them choose the right lawn mower.
1. Weight
Lightweight mowers are easy to maneuver and control, so seniors should look for such machines to avoid strain. They can look into self-propelled lawn mowers if they are not too keen on using manual mowers.
2. Maneuverability
Self-propelled mowers are easy to use when there is a defined area to be mowed, but some of these can be heavier than push lawn mowers. Still, they are a better choice for seniors than manual mowers. Machines with a smaller turning radius are easy to maneuver around any other structure in the lawn, like a fountain, pond, or any other obstacle.
3. Cutting width
Seniors can find lawn mowers with cutting widths ranging from 14 to 60 inches. For home use, some popular sizes are 14, 21, 30, 42, and 48 inches. They can choose smaller cutting widths based on their lawn size.
4. Power source
Lawn mowers are powered by electricity through cords, batteries, or gas. Gas-powered mowers are lighter. While corded mowers might be more compact, there is a risk of seniors tripping over the cords.
5. Size
Seniors can choose a mower based on the space available for storing them. Electric motors are compact, and some models have foldable hands that take up less storage space; plus, they are easy to carry.
6. Grass catcher bag
While some prefer to leave the grass bits as mulch, it is better to catch them and prepare the compost separately. Having a grass catcher that is easy to put on and remove can greatly benefit seniors.
7. Safety
Lawn mowing mishaps are common among seniors. They should look for mowers with adequate safety features like an automatic switch that turns the mower off if the user lets go of the handle, a blade brake clutch to allow the mower to pause, and height-adjusting levers.
Top easy-to-use and safe lawn mowers for seniors
There are a lot of lawn mowers that are recommended for seniors. These machines are safer and easier to use, and they help them mow their lawn effectively and independently.
1. GreenWorks G-Max 40V battery-operated lawn mower
The GreenWorks G-Max 40V battery-operated lawn mower is a cordless mower with a 16-inch width. It is capable of mowing half an acre of lawn on a single charge. It has a push-button start. Seniors can add a grass catcher bag or use the clippings for mulching. The blade can be adjusted to five different height positions, depending on the height of the grass cut.
2. Snapper self-propelled walk mower
The Snapper walk mower is a self-propelled cordless machine that reduces the risk of tripping. It has two batteries, and each can mow for 45 minutes. It has load-sensing technology to adjust the power automatically. It has adjustment handles that allow one to move the mower up or down and choose the cutting height.
3. Troy Bilt-6 speed manual gas rear engine riding lawn mower
The Troy Built-6-speed manual gas rear-engine riding lawn mower is best suited for seniors who may have mobility issues but love physical exercise. It is easy to handle and is powerful and compact. It has a 382 cc gas engine, large 18-inch rear wheels, and a 30-inch cutting width.
4. Toro SMARTSTOW
The Toro SMARTSTOW is a gas lawn mower ideal for seniors. It is a lightweight mower despite being a push model. It comes with foldable handles and is easy to use, store, and maintain. Furthermore, it comes with a 22-inch cutting width and is ideal for larger lawns.
Things to keep in mind when mowing a lawn
There are some safety tips that seniors must follow when using a lawn mower to prevent the risk of injuries.
- Wear safety boots with steel toecaps
- Wear safety goggles to cover one’s eyes from flying debris
- Wear thick and close-fitting clothing, such as trousers and full-sleeved shirts.
- Do not touch the exhaust.