How can I make my property safer and easier to maintain in retirement?

Aging in place is about staying safe, independent, and comfortable while doing so. For many Calgary homeowners, maintaining a property can become increasingly difficult with age, especially when dealing with seasonal yardwork, slippery pathways, and risky tree maintenance. Fortunately, with the right plan and professional support, your home, and your outdoor space, can be adapted for long-term safety and low-maintenance living.

Here’s how Evergreen LTD can help you prepare your property for retirement while protecting your safety and peace of mind.

Prioritize Outdoor Safety to Prevent Falls

Slips, trips, and falls are among the top causes of injury for older adults. And while many resources focus on indoor modifications, the exterior of your property poses just as much risk, especially in Calgary’s icy winters and wet springs.

Simple ways to prevent falls around your yard:

• Clear trip hazards: Tree roots, uneven walkways, and loose flagstone can be smoothed or replaced.

• Improve outdoor lighting: Motion-activated lighting around pathways and entrances increases nighttime visibility.

• Ensure safe access: Ramps, sturdy railings, and widened paths provide better access and navigation.

• Remove low-hanging branches: These can become dangerous obstacles or fall during storms.

Evergreen LTD’s certified arborists can assess tree-related hazards and provide safe pruning, bracing, or removal as needed. Contact us for a seasonal safety inspection before fall or winter sets in.

Plan for Low-Maintenance Landscaping

If you’re retiring, the last thing you want is a yard that demands constant upkeep. A proactive approach to landscaping can reduce physical demands and ongoing costs.

Low-maintenance strategies include:

• Tree pruning and health monitoring: Regular care prevents storm damage and extends tree life.

• Mulch beds instead of grass: Reduces mowing and weeds while retaining soil moisture.

• Native or drought-tolerant plants: These thrive with minimal watering and care.

• Automated irrigation systems: Avoid dragging hoses around the yard.

Hiring a Calgary arborist like Evergreen LTD can help you transition your landscape into a manageable, attractive space tailored to your lifestyle.

Schedule Routine Tree & Property Inspections

Many major issues, like falling limbs or foundation-damaging roots, can be avoided with scheduled inspections. Evergreen LTD recommends seasonal or annual checkups for aging homeowners, particularly if:

• You have mature trees close to your home or power lines.

• You notice deadwood, decay, or fungal growth.

• Roots are damaging walkways or foundation.

Our certified team evaluates risk and health, providing expert recommendations and cost-effective interventions. We help you plan ahead to avoid emergencies that could be costly, or dangerous.

Outsource Risky Tasks to the Pros

DIY yard work might be satisfying, but it comes with significant risk for older adults. Climbing ladders, using power tools, and lifting heavy branches or debris can result in injury or worse. For aging homeowners, it’s often safer, and smarter, to outsource physically demanding work.

We recommend outsourcing tasks such as:

• Tree pruning and removal

• Gutter cleaning near large trees

• Storm cleanup

• Root barrier installation

• Winter snow load trimming on trees

Don’t put your safety at risk. Evergreen LTD provides professional, insured tree services across Calgary to keep your property safe and beautiful.

Support Aging in Place with Smart Landscaping Design

Just like interior renovations for aging in place, your landscape can be adapted with universal design principles in mind.

Smart outdoor design may include:

• Wide, level paths for walker or wheelchair access.

• Reinforced railings along stairs or ramps.

• Raised garden beds for easier access.

• Barrier-free entries and accessible mailbox placement.

• Tree placement that reduces debris near rooflines or driveways.

Evergreen LTD can work alongside your contractor, or care provider to ensure trees and landscape don’t become liabilities over time.

Leverage Local Resources and Experts

Many aging homeowners qualify for grants or local assistance programs that support safer living environments. From home modifications to accessible landscaping funding, there may be financial support available.

As your Calgary-based tree experts, Evergreen LTD is proud to be a partner in this journey. We’re familiar with regional needs, city bylaws, and best practices for aging-friendly outdoor spaces. We can also provide documentation and estimates if you’re applying for improvement grants or programs.

Ready to Age in Place Safely? We’re Here to Help.

Aging doesn’t mean giving up your outdoor space, it just means adapting it to match your needs. From safe tree care to low-maintenance landscaping, Evergreen LTD is your trusted partner in creating a retirement-ready property in Calgary.

Contact us today to schedule a property assessment and see how we can help simplify, safeguard, and support your yard for the years ahead.