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AgrAbility program shows how farmers can work safer and longer

An AgrAbility outreach coordinator says producers can adapt equipment and facilities to make farming more comfortable as they age or face disabilities.

Bev Berens with Michigan AgrAbility tells Brownfield arthritis and back injuries are common issues the nonprofit helps farmers manage.

“Simple examples, and anybody can do this—extra steps to get on a tractor,” she says. “Grab bars to help you get onto a skid steer. Something there for stability. Backup cameras on equipment.”

Berens says phone apps and robotic solutions are becoming more available to assist farmers. She uses exoskeletons as an example.

“It helps people keep their arms lifted if they’re in a movement that needs to, say, pruning trees or something like that, or helps bring your back upright from a bent-over position,” she shares.

Berens says an engineer will meet with farmers for an assessment evaluating what modifications can help overcome injuries, permanent disabilities, or other health issues.

Professionals and farmers from across the country will be in Michigan this week for the AgrAbility National Training Workshop, addressing issues related to disability in agriculture.