Finding an accessible mower for those with limitations can be surprisingly difficult. We cover a range of options and factors to consider.
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For many DIYers, the experience of mowing the lawn is enjoyable, the epitome of spending time tending to their lawn and helping it thrive. Unfortunately, that enjoyment can seem out of reach for those with disabilities or mobility issues.
Luckily, there are a number of solutions for different types of accessibility limitations, and mowers ranging from expensive zero-turn riders to simple push models can be modified to accommodate almost any need.
“An accessible lawn mower includes features that enable just about anyone to use it. Some key features of accessible mowers include self-propelled functions and push button start for push mowers,” says Tyler Graham, co-founder of The Lawn Review.
Before we go further, we want to acknowledge that there are many types of disabilities, and the experience of every person struggling with limitations is unique. We haven’t compiled a universally comprehensive list, but we have highlighted a few options that might generate discussion and help you find the perfect fit for your needs.
We’ve included both modified mowers and mowers designed with accessibility in mind. Whether you have severe mobility issues or plan on continuing yard care while aging in place, we hope this list is helpful. We’ve also included links to other resources, where appropriate.
A zero-turn radius (ZTR) mower is a popular choice for lower-limb amputees, quadriplegics or anyone who struggles with fine foot movements, because (ZTR) mowers are controlled with a pair of lap bars or joystick rather than a traditional steering wheel. While some do use foot pedals, many others are purely hand-operated. This 42-in. zero turn model from Ryobi uses no foot controls, and because it’s an electric mower, there’s no gasoline refueling or oil changes. Simply plug it in to a standard 120-volt outlet when it’s ready to recharge. The joystick steering requires just one hand, and it can cut up to three acres on a single charge, according to the manufacturer.
The unique design of ZTR mower lap bars is popular with some people who have hand or arm-related disabilities. Jason Koger is a bi-lateral arm amputee, who controls his ZTR mower with body-powered prosthetic limbs.
Accessibility features:
A riding mower with a lever-operated hydrostatic transmission, like the Husqvarna YTH22V46 Lawn Tractor, allows operators to control speed and direction with a hand-controlled level on the mower’s side. This eliminates the need to depress a clutch pedal when shifting gears.
The LTH1738 is similar to the Craftsman mower used by Rob Pollock in this New Mobility profile. The article describes the only major modification Rob made to his mower: Replacing the seat with a used power chair seat with a higher back and armrests. (It also looks like he added a spinner knob to the steering wheel.)
Accessibility features:
Angela Tague suffers from rheumatoid arthritis and chronic fatigue, and she loves her EGO Power+ with TouchDrive self-propelled push mower. On her blog (Cupcakes and Yoga Pants) she’s written that she likes the lighter weight of the electric mower. The variable-speed, self-propelled drive system allows her to ramp down her speed if the mower feels like it’s getting away from her.
While the exact model she writes about isn’t available, the EGO Power+ LM2135SP has exactly the kind of dynamic speed control that allows it to adapt to your pace.
Accessibility features:
Corded electric mowers, like the Ryobi RYAC130-S Corded Electric Mower, don’t have a self-propelled option, but they do have push button starts and are lightweight, requiring minimal force to mow the lawn or return it to storage. In fact, this Ryobi model weighs only 23 pounds. That’s less than half the weight of other, larger corded mowers, and around 25 percent lighter than many other similarly-sized mowers we looked at.
This 13-inch mower runs on an extension cord plugged into a standard 120-volt outlet. It can mulch or collect clippings with the included bag. However, it lacks side discharge, so if you tackle long grass you may struggle with clogs.
Accessibility features:
Another viable option is to let technology do the work. The WORX WR165 Robot Lawn Mower is intended for small yards (one-eighth acre or less), but it can be a great way for a disabled DIYer to still have a hand in lawn care.
The trick to selecting a robot mower is finding one that accommodates your physical needs, as well as your yard’s landscape. For example, a mower with a wide base will be heavy, making it harder to lift and clean out grass clippings, or to tip back onto its wheels if it gets stuck. The modest 7-in cutting base on the WR165 helps keep it light (21 pounds), while also navigating narrow spaces. This mower is significantly more affordable than other robotic mowers, which may run into the thousands of dollars.
The WR165 can be controlled by the Landroid app over a Bluetooth or WiFi connection, making it a good choice for those who want to be involved in lawn maintenance but may not always be able to physically push or ride on a mower.
Accessibility features:
Here are some factors to consider when shopping for an accessible lawn mower:
Dan Stout is a former residential remodeler, commercial site supervisor and maintenance manager. He’s worked on nearly all aspects of building and DIY, including project planning and permitting, plumbing, basic electric, drywall, carpentry, tiling, painting and more. Stout has covered various lawn mower stories including the best lawn mowers for small yards, self-propelled lawn mowers, gas lawn mowers and electric lawn mowers. His expertise in lawn care products helps him write knowledgeable content about lawn mowers and other yard tools.
We consulted Tyler Graham to help us better understand what to look for in accessible lawn mowers. Tyler is a leading voice in the lawn care community and has been featured in many news publications. He also has a large audience on his YouTube channel, The Lawn Review. Tyler is a former landscaper turned residential lawn pro. He is an expert in DIY lawn care and all things outdoor power equipment, having tested dozens of electric mowers, string trimmers and leaf blowers.
To find the best accessible lawn mowers we looked for features that would assist those with varying types of disabilities. As mentioned earlier, we highlighted a few options to help you find what works best for your needs. Beyond accessibility features, we also looked at product durability, cost, brand reliability and customer reviews so we’re only suggesting buys worth your time and money.
