By Scout Nelson
Occupational therapy students at the University of Minnesota show how occupational therapy plays an important role in supporting the health and mobility of aging agricultural workers. Their work focuses on improving independence, safety, and quality of life in rural communities.
A recent capstone project examines mobility challenges faced by aging agricultural workers. The study finds that workers who experience higher levels of pain often rely on multiple adaptive and self-care strategies while working.
These strategies include attending physical and occupational therapy, taking regular rest breaks, stretching, conserving energy, and adjusting daily work routines to reduce strain.
“My capstone was specifically on aging farmers, because that’s one of the biggest populations in agriculture right now. The average farmer is [about] 58 years or older, and that keeps increasing every year,” the student researcher explains. “A lot of these farmers are going to start having mobility issues, issues getting on and off equipment, and just doing their jobs. Many farmers also tend to work past retirement age.”
The research also connects with specialized training developed through University of Minnesota Exension and AgrAbility. AgrAbility is a national effort designed to enhance quality of life for agricultural workers with disabilities by promoting independence and long-term success.
While Minnesota previously offered an AgrAbility program, it was discontinued. The training aims to build awareness and encourage future program development.
“I think it's important to advocate for this program because it really does enhance the quality of life for farmers and agricultural workers in general, which [in turn] supports the economy and the success of rural America,” the researcher says.
The two-day training introduces participants to assistive technology such as exoskeletons, equipment modifications, and tools that make it easier to enter and exit machinery. Participants also learn how to conduct on-farm assessments.
Farm visits during training show how simple changes, including equipment adjustments and added support, can increase independence and safety.
Programs like AgrAbility help connect health care knowledge with agricultural experience. They also prepare students to understand rural health challenges while offering practical solutions that help agricultural workers remain active, productive, and independent as they age.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-livingimages
Categories: Minnesota, Business, Rural Lifestyle, Farm Safety