The garden: little and often
A short, regular tidy is easier than a big overhaul, and it keeps the garden feeling like theirs.
- Pick the parts that matter most to them: the lawn, the roses, the vegetable patch.
- Keep paths clear and edges tidy, so they're easy to walk on.
- Plan jobs for a cooler part of the day.
- Let them be as involved as they like, from doing the planting to directing from a chair.
What's worth handing over
Mowing and edging
Heavy, repetitive and tiring. A good one to share or hand over.
Pruning and hedges
Anything that needs a ladder or a heavy tool is worth handing to someone else.
Weeding and clearing
Bending and kneeling add up. A helper can do the hard yards while they enjoy the result.
Painting: where to start
- Start with the room they use the most.
- Choose colours together, and try a sample on the wall first.
- Light, warm colours can make a room feel brighter.
- Contrasting colours on door frames and skirting boards can make a room easier to get around.
Making it easy on the day
Decide beforehand what needs moving, and what will be covered. Open the windows for fresh air, and plan somewhere comfortable to sit while the work is going on. A cuppa in the garden makes a good break.
