Designing and planting spaces that age gracefully
Landscaping transforms outdoor spaces into beautiful, functional areas through hardscape and softscape elements.
Hardscape refers to the solid, non-living elements in landscaping, like patios, pathways, walls, and decks while softscape includes the living elements, like plants, trees, and flowers.
Accessible pathways and low-maintenance plants make movement safer and yard care easier for older adults.
Landscaping projects generally cost between $1,249 and $6,071.
Picture this: accessible pathways that guide you comfortably, low-maintenance plants that keep the space lush without the fuss, and cozy seating that invites you to linger. Whether you’re an older adult looking to make your yard more accessible or designing for a loved one, the goal is the same—create an inviting outdoor space that can be enjoyed for years to come. Use this guide to learn six landscape design ideas to age comfortably in place (and in peace).
Think of landscape design as a way to shape an outdoor space that’s both beautiful and genuinely useful—a place that works as well as it welcomes. It’s about balancing beauty and purpose to transform your yard into something that works for you.
For great landscape design, you need a careful blend of two elements: hardscape and softscape. Hardscape features—like pathways, patios, walls, and cozy seating areas—give structure to your space and make it easier to move around. Softscape elements are all the living features: plants, flowers, shrubs, and trees. These bring life, color, and a touch of nature’s softness to balance out the more solid, built features.
When you blend both landscape design elements, you can create an outdoor area that feels vibrant and grounded. For older adults, this balance can make all the difference. Hardscape features, like stable, slip-resistant pathways, improve accessibility and encourage movement. Meanwhile, softscape choices can focus on low-maintenance plants that are easy to care for but add beauty and charm to your yard.
Ultimately, landscape design isn’t just about looks; it’s about creating an outdoor space that feels like an extension of your home—a place that’s safe, comfortable, and alive with natural beauty, all year long.
Designing your outdoor area means creating a space that’s easy to enjoy, safe to navigate, and effortlessly charming. The right design elements will help you prioritize accessibility, comfort, and aesthetics as you age in place.
When designing an outdoor space for safe, easy movement, accessible pathways should sit at the top of your list. If your home needs wheelchair access, consider installing a ramp. On average, the cost to build a wheelchair ramp is $2,232. While going the DIY route might seem like a way to save, ramps require precise angles, sturdy materials, and rock-solid construction—all the makings of a project that isn't beginner-friendly.
To improve accessibility without needing a full wheelchair ramp, minimize your steps by adding gentle slopes or level pathways. These subtle changes can make a huge difference as they reduce tripping risks and make every part of your yard easier to reach.
Installing handrails along paths, stairs, and ramps greatly improves outdoor safety and comfort, especially for older adults. These might seem like small additions, but they offer invaluable support, helping you keep your balance and steer clear of falls—particularly on uneven ground or tricky steps. Whether it's for a long garden staircase or a winding, sloped path, handrails provide stability where you need them. But here’s the best part. They don’t just keep you safe. They make you feel confident. Handrails make moving through your outdoor space feel effortless. With handrails in place, navigating your outdoor area becomes a breeze and lets you focus on enjoying the space instead of worrying about your next step.
Low-maintenance plants are one of the secrets to a beautiful, stress-free garden. By choosing easily maintained plants and flowers like sedum, hostas, and daffodils, you can enjoy lush greenery without constant upkeep. These plants need minimal watering, trimming, and attention, giving you more time to relax and enjoy your outdoor space. They’ll add vibrant color and texture throughout the year, all while cutting down on your gardening tasks. With low-maintenance landscaping and plants, your garden stays lively and easy to manage, letting you admire the beauty without the effort.
Automatic sprinklers take the hassle out of watering your lawn, especially during dry spells. No more dragging hoses around or trying to remember when to water—your system takes care of it for you. You can skip watering in the winter when the ground freezes and after a rainstorm, so you don’t accidentally overdo it. Typically, lawns need watering twice a week in summer and well into the fall. With an automatic system, you can save time and energy while keeping your lawn healthy.
Good lighting does wonders for your outdoor space, making it safer and more inviting. For older adults, well-placed lights along paths, steps, and driveways enhance visibility, reducing tripping hazards and accidents after dark. Motion-sensor lights offer added security and automatically light your way as you walk by. A soft glow around your porch or garden goes a long way in helping you enjoy your yard long after the sun sets. With the right lighting, your space becomes safer and more welcoming—for you and your visitors.
Using durable materials, like stone instead of concrete, is an ideal move for outdoor landscaping because it’s both durable and beautiful. You can use it for pathways, patios, garden borders, and retaining walls—structures built to hold back soil on sloped land.
While concrete might seem like the cheaper option at first glance, it doesn’t hold up. Over time, it cracks and chips, requiring constant repairs. This can be a hassle, especially for older adults. Stone, on the other hand, lasts much longer, needs less maintenance, and has a timeless, natural look that enhances your outdoor aesthetic.
When choosing the right landscaping project, start by considering several factors. First, think about your budget. The average landscaping project costs $3,523 but ranges between $1,249 and $6,071, depending on different factors like yard size, labor, and materials. It’s easy to get carried away, but setting a clear limit helps you focus on more practical decisions.
Next, consider your ability or that of your loved one. If mobility and accessibility are concerns, prioritize paths, ramps, and low-maintenance features over projects like raised garden beds. And don’t forget about maintenance — pick plants and materials that are easy to care for, like drought-resistant plants or durable stones.
Lastly, safety is crucial. As we get older, falling becomes more of a risk. Make sure your design reduces tripping hazards and allows for easy movement.
While you can get creative, it’s a good idea to hire a local professional landscaper for their advice and expertise. They’ll guide you in making smart, safe, and beautiful choices that fit your needs, budget, and long-term goals. It can save you both time and frustration in the process.
Yes, landscaping can boost your home value by up to 30%. A well-manicured lawn, upgraded walkways with lush plants, and thoughtful lighting all add instant charm and curb appeal. Just revamping your front walkway alone offers a 100% return on investment (ROI) while a pristine lawn can deliver an impressive 217% ROI. Fixing up your home with a few thoughtful design options is a smart, “groundbreaking” way to make your property stand out and reap the rewards when it’s time to sell.
Common hardscaping materials include coated steel or iron, asphalt, stone, concrete, and brick. Coated steel or iron provide durability and style for fences and gates while asphalt is a wallet-friendly option for driveways. Stone brings timeless beauty to steps, patios, and walkways. Concrete pavers and slabs are cost-effective, though they require more upkeep than stone alternatives. For a classic, upscale look, brick works beautifully in walls, walkways, and patios. Each material brings its own charm, so pick what fits your budget, style, and functional needs.
