One line that comes with large foam covered handles is the Wiser telescopic tools which are made of aluminum making them lightweight. They are also easily extended to allow working from a sitting, kneeling or standing position. Look for hand tools that have an ergonomic design that is easy on your wrist and arm movement. This just means that your hand holds the tool at an angle that extends the line of the arm and makes wrist movement minimal. Fiskars makes a good quality pair of ergonomic pruners that are angled like this, plus they have a longer than average grip that is covered in a soft sturdy foam that is easy on the hand and prevents blisters.
Gloves are also good for giving a grip, particularly when they have a ribbed surface.
Have a hose holder part way into the garden so you don't have to carry it the entire way. Paint the ends of wooden handles a bright colour so that when you drop them in the garden they are easy to see Keep pruners and spades sharp to reduce the effort required to do the job. Vary your tasks. A full day of pruning will give any gardener blisters. Remember it's not a race.