SAFETY TIPS FOR FARMING WITH LIMITATIONS DUE TO AGING

The median age of a farm owner in the state of Iowa is 61 years (Neil Harl and Ann Schoultz Iowa State University, 1992) The state of Iowa has the highest percentage of people over the age of 85 and ranks third in the nation of individuals over the age of 65.

The physical or sensory limitations that one may experience through aging varies with each individual person, as well as the degree of the limitation. An individual may attempt to perform a particular task that may exceed his/her abilities with the conscious or unconscious thought that "maybe I can get away with doing this task without anything happening". In some cases the physical limitation may not be obvious or visible. Since the limitation is not visible, the individual may feel others perceive him/her as lazy or incapable. It is extremely important that these individuals recognize their own limitations and respect those limitations. Some limitations may include decreased reaction time, visual limitations, decreased strength, decreased circulation, hearing limitations, decreased endurance, difficulty with balance, limited mobility, decreased muscle range of motion, arthritis, and a variety of other limitations.

The following is a list of safety tips that have been shared by farmers who are affected by physical limitations due to the aging process:

With decreased reaction time, the primary concern is the ability to perform farm tasks around machinery, livestock, and other hazardous areas without getting hurt. Elderly persons may relate more clearly to the abilities they used to have and may perceive themselves as still having those same abilities. It is critical that individuals recognize the exact nature of their limitations and adjust accordingly. Direct access to livestock can be dangerous due to the animals unpredictable nature. Accommodations to reduce potential injury include installation of fence line feeders or automated feeding systems, appropriate livestock holding equipment, or having another person perform the potentially dangerous tasks. If one cannot afford an automated feed system, he/she should use a feed cart to avoid carrying feed, which can create unsafe conditions by placing the body in an unstable stance and increasing fatigue.

Older farmers may be more susceptible to hold and cold temperatures. For tractors without a cab, special care should be taken to prevent heat stroke and sun burn. It is critical to drink lots of fluids, installing an overhead canopy or performing field work during times in which there is less exposure to the heat. During winter months, farmers should wear warm clothing to protect against exposure or frostbite due to decreased circulation. Pocket hand warmers can also be used to warm hands. Frequent work breaks should also be considered.

With arthritis, decreased muscle range of motion, and limited mobility, it may be difficult to mobilize for long distances or for extended periods of time, especially when maneuvering around rough rural terrain. There are a variety of mobility aids which could aid an individual. These aids may include modified lawn mowers, used golf carts, electric and heavy-duty wheelchairs, all-terrain vehicles, preferably with bench seats, shoe and boot cleats, and special cane tips for ice, snow, and loose gravel. These aids can also be helpful for an individual who experiences increased fatigue or to prevent further degeneration. Foot guards and modifications to controls for all-terrain vehicles and lawn mowers should be considered if an individual lacks sensation and/or control in their legs or feet. Head gear should be worn when operating all-terrain vehicles.

Farmers who experience decreased gripping ability due to arthritis in their hands or upper extremities should utilize jigs, fixtures, clamps, and vice-grips to compensate for the decreased strength or grip. An individual may find that one hand/arm is stronger than the other and thus the individual will consistently rely on that one extremity. One-handed tools and other labor-saving devices to help prevent additional injuries to the stronger extremity is also suggested. One should also consider utilizing labor-saving devices such as automatic hitching devices and bin level indicators as well as job restructuring of those tasks that are too difficult or hazardous to perform.

Because of arthritis, decreased muscle range of motion, and limited mobility, it may be difficult to mount and dismount farm machinery because of distance from the ground to the first step. Additional steps, wider steps, steps made of non-slip material such as, "diamond strut" or "grip strut", along with additional hand holds should be considered to make mounting and dismounting farm machinery safer and easier. For individuals who have experienced a knee or hip replacement, additional steps would be recommended. Jumping on and off equipment is not recommended if you have had either replacement.

In older style tractors, it may take a great deal of strength to operate the brake and clutch. Through the aging process, one may lose some physical strength. To accommodate, hand controls should be installed. Appropriate guidelines and standards should be used when designing and fabricating hand controls so they do not cause further injury. Rollover protective devices are recommended on all equipment.

Individuals who have experienced a hip replacement may also want to consider a modification to their tractor seats, such as better cushions, or installation of an independent suspension seat to help provide more protection and shock absorption for the hip joint. For hip replacement patients, tasks that require bending 90 degrees or more from the hip should be avoided. The step and hand hold modifications should also be considered by individuals who experience instability or balance difficulties. If an individual performs any tasks that require vertical climbing, a lift or back support rings, or stairs is an option. These modifications can be utilized on farm machinery, grain bins, and any equipment that requires vertical climbing. If dizziness is a possibility, vertical climbing should be avoided completely.

PLEASE NOTE: The information shared is based on data gathered by Easter Seals Farm Family Rehabilitation Management (FaRM) program through financial support from the W.K. Kellogg Foundation. No scientific research has been conducted to determine if the above tips or suggestions are safe or effective. The information shared originated from ideas shared by elderly farmers who experience limitations because of the aging process and the staff at the Easter Seals FaRM program. For more clarification of information shared or additional information, please contact the Easter Seals FaRM program at (515)289-1933, Ext. 251 or PO Box 4002, Des Moines, IA 50333-4002.

Thank you to W.K. Kellogg Foundation, Easter Seals FaRM program staff, Iowa farmers, and Staci Hupp, Iowa State University student, for making this safety tip sheet possible.