Up to 1 in 4 adults in the United States have some type of disability, and 12.1 percent of those have a mobility impairment. With tens of millions of Americans struggling with physical mobility and independent living, artificial grass provides a much-needed landscaping solution for those who have difficulty maintaining or even using natural grass.

While natural grass can be difficult to navigate and impossible to maintain for those with disabilities, synthetic turf is easy to use and even easier to look after, making it a great choice for all Americans. Here are just a few of the many reasons why synthetic turf is the ideal landscaping solution for persons with disabilities.

Even, Flat Surface

Individuals with disabilities often face challenges traversing uneven or bumpy surfaces, which can increase the risk of falls and injuries. Whereas natural grass can have natural dips, depressions, holes, and bumps that increase tripping hazards, artificial turf provides a consistently even surface that is safe and stable for those with disabilities to move around freely.

During the synthetic grass installation process, the ground underneath is leveled and compacted, providing a perfectly flat surface. Even years after installation, your synthetic grass will remain flat and even, making it possible for those with mobility impairments to move around their outdoor space independently and reducing the risk of accidents.

Wheelchair-Friendly

While those without disabilities may assume natural grass to be wheelchair-friendly, the truth is that it can be incredibly difficult for people in wheelchairs to navigate grass without issue. Natural grass has rocks, debris, bumps, and other changes in terrain that make it difficult for wheelchair users to get around. Additionally, sharp debris and rocks have the potential to puncture or otherwise damage wheelchair tires, creating a significant hazard. In wet weather, natural grass becomes even more challenging to navigate, as slippery mud can leave wheelchair users stuck or sliding around without full control.

By contrast, synthetic grass provides a smooth, even surface that allows for easy movement of wheelchairs. The firm, stable surface of artificial turf eliminates the risk of wheelchairs getting stuck or sinking into the ground, especially for those with heavier electric wheelchairs. Synthetic grass is also installed with an ultra-efficient drainage system that ensures the lawn rapidly dries after any wet weather. By eliminating mud and pooling water, synthetic turf reduces slip risks and ensures that homeowners have a wheelchair-accessible lawn 365 days a year.

Easy to Maintain

For persons with disabilities, spending too much time and effort on yard work can be physically and mentally taxing — if it’s even possible at all. Traditional lawn care demands homeowners to walk a significant distance in the course of mowing their lawn, and weeding can be extremely difficult for those who have difficulty getting up and down.

Synthetic grass, on the other hand, is a low-maintenance option that offers the same lush, green look as natural grass without the hassle of constant upkeep. It never needs to be mowed or fertilized, and the only watering required is a quick rinse with a hose as needed to flush away dust and debris. For individuals with disabilities who may find it challenging to keep up with the physical demands of lawn care, artificial turf allows homeowners to enjoy a verdant outdoor space without the added burden of lawn maintenance.

Accessible Gardening

Individuals over 65 years old make up more than half of all Americans with disabilities. This is also the age bracket that participates in gardening the most. Although gardening can have numerous benefits for individuals with disabilities, including mental health benefits, it can be physically challenging, limiting their access to this therapeutic activity.

Luckily, artificial turf provides an accessible solution for gardening, making it easier for individuals in a wheelchair or with mobility issues to participate. One of the main challenges for persons with disabilities is maintaining balance and stability while moving around and crouching down on natural grass. With artificial turf, this issue is significantly reduced thanks to the stable and even surface provided by synthetic turf. 

Moreover, synthetic grass makes it easy to install and access raised garden beds. Raised beds make it possible for those in wheelchairs to access their garden without getting out of their chair. It also reduces strain and effort for those with mobility impairments. In addition to the ease of access, synthetic turf also improves the health of gardens by protecting them from weeds and pests, providing functional benefits for the garden as well as the gardener.

If you need guidance in choosing the right wholesale turf for your accessible or ADA-compliant landscape design, speak to your installer or contact your local SGW Dallas location. We can help you find the perfect wholesale synthetic grass products for your home or business. SGW Dallas has been an industry leader for more than 20 years, helping distributors, installers, and homeowners alike with all their artificial grass installation needs. To find out more about artificial grass wholesale or to receive guidance with your next turf grass installation, contact your local Synthetic Grass Warehouse facility today.