The farming population is aging. According to the USDA’s most recent Census of Agriculture, the average age of American farmers now hovers around 58, with more than a third over 65. As producers grow older, physical limitations—whether from age, injury, or disability—can make the demanding work of agriculture increasingly difficult. Yet many farmers lack awareness of the tools designed to help them adapt, leaving them at risk of early retirement or unnecessary strain.
Enter assistive technologies: a broad category of devices and modifications that can make farming more accessible. From ergonomic tractor seats to voice-activated controls, lift assists for heavy loads, and adaptive tools for those with limited mobility, these innovations are proving critical for farmers facing functional challenges. But despite their potential, adoption remains low, often due to a simple lack of exposure.
To bridge that gap, Purdue’s Indiana AgrAbility Project, in collaboration with Huntington University and Easterseals Crossroads, is hosting a full-day assistive technology expo on October 16. The event, held on Huntington University’s campus, will offer hands-on demonstrations of tools tailored for agricultural work, giving attendees the chance to test equipment and learn from experts. Registration is free but required by October 9, with priority given to professionals like vocational rehabilitation counselors, occupational therapists, and AgrAbility staff—those most likely to connect farmers with these resources.
The implications of such events extend beyond individual farmers. With rural communities facing labor shortages and an aging workforce, keeping experienced producers in the field is an economic necessity. Assistive technologies can delay forced retirements, reduce injury risks, and even attract younger farmers with disabilities who might otherwise see agriculture as an inaccessible career. Yet for these tools to make a difference, awareness must spread beyond specialized networks.
Paul Jones, a key contact for the expo, emphasizes that the event isn’t just about showcasing gadgets—it’s about fostering a shift in how the agricultural community views accessibility. Too often, farmers see physical limitations as a career-ending obstacle rather than a challenge that can be mitigated with the right support. By bringing together professionals who work directly with farmers, the expo aims to create a ripple effect: therapists and counselors who attend can carry knowledge back to their clients, while extension agents can integrate assistive tech into their outreach.
For farmers who have spent decades adapting to the land, the idea of adapting the land—or their tools—to their needs can feel unfamiliar. But as the expo demonstrates, the solutions already exist. The question is whether the industry will embrace them before more producers are forced to walk away.