How Old Is Too Old To Use a Leaf Blower?

Leaf blowers can make life a lot easier, but they’re not always great for our health. Just the other day, my partner inflamed his tendonitis while using one to blow off the deck. And as we get older, the potential health issues from using leaf blowers only grow.

“A common misconception is that, as we age, using a leaf blower is easy and won’t cause any strain or discomfort,” says homeowner-solution expert Zack Moorin. “This, however, is not true for all, and especially for those with physical barriers or health concerns.”

Here’s more about how to know how old is too old to use a leaf blower.

Risks of Using a Leaf Blower As You Age

Leaf blowers are heavy and deliver a lot of kickback, which puts stress on our muscles. Since our strength decreases as we age, and our bodies become more fragile in general, leaf blowers can start to cause injuries from strained elbows to thrown-out backs. Other health threats posed by leaf blowers include:

• Disrupted balance, which increases the risk of a fall;
• Damaged hearing, from loud decibels;
• Breathing difficulties, from both physical exertion and inhaling exhaust;
• Burns, from hot elements on gas-powered models;
• Cardiovascular strain;
• Musculoskeletal injuries caused by repetitive movement and stress centered on certain body parts.

“A major issue is musculoskeletal injuries,” says Moorin. “Using a leaf blower involves a cyclical range of motion and can be taxing on arms, shoulders and back, resulting in conditions from tendonitis to bursitis and carpal tunnel syndrome.”

Tips for Using a Leaf Blower Safely as You Age

• Stretch and warm up your muscles, as you would for any physical activity. “Spend a few minutes doing simple stretches, including arm circles and wrist rolls, to prepare your body for the challenge,” says Moorin.
• Keep good posture and be aware of your body mechanics. “Avoid twisting as you move your back, and keep your back straight while blowing leaves,” says Moorin. “Use alternating arms instead of favoring one side to prevent overuse injuries.”
• Wear protection, including gloves and safety glasses. If you have a gas-powered model, also wear an N95 mask to help filter out fumes.
• When in doubt, consult your physician.

Also, consider switching to a smaller, lighter battery-powered model — or even just using a rake instead. “Furthermore, take frequent breaks and listen to your body,” says Dr. Pamela Tambini, MD. “If you have a heart, lung or joint condition, consider delegating the task.”

When Are You Too Old to Use a Leaf Blower?

There is no set age at which everyone should stop using a leaf blower. Instead, it varies depending on your health and your particular strengths and weaknesses, but physical signs that suggest you’re too old to use a leaf blower include:

• Balance or stability problems,
• Numbness in the arms or hands,
• Feeling weak quickly,
• Musculoskeletal pain or weakness,
• Respiratory issues,
• Hearing loss or sensitivity, and
• Cardiovascular warning signs, including dizziness, lightheadedness or chest pain during or after use.

“If you find yourself needing frequent recovery time after short use, having difficulty starting or maneuvering the blower, neighbors or family expressing concern, or feeling mentally foggy or easily distracted, it may be time to stop or switch to a safer alternative,” says Tambini.

About the Experts

• Dr. Pamela Tambini, MD, is the medical director at Engage Massachusetts in Acton. She is double board-certified in addiction medicine and internal medicine.
• Zack Moorin is the founder of Zack Buys Houses in Charlotte, North Carolina, a family-owned business focused on helping homeowners find solutions to any problem. He also has extensive landscaping experience.

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