Gardens and Gardening in Later Life

Milligan, C. and Bingley, A. (2026) Gardens and Gardening in Later Life. In: Routledge Handbook of Cultural Gerontology :. Routledge. ISBN 9781032273075

Abstract

In this chapter, we discuss the role of gardens and gardening activity in later life. In particular, we focus on the relational and embodied modes of engagement older people have with their domestic gardens. In doing so, the chapter addresses the gendered, sociocultural and sometimes paradoxical relationships people have with their gardens in later life, and the meanings people attach to them. Importantly, the chapter also discusses how these relationships can change over the life course—and particularly post-retirement. Finally, the chapter discusses how the COVID-19 pandemic has impacted these relationships and hence older people's engagement with their gardens.