Spring is now upon us and the nicer weather makes it more enjoyable to get out and about. But for some people, everyday shopping can be quite tiresome, especially if you have mobility issues. Everybody deserves the right to be able to remain independent for as long as they can. So we are joining in with Fenetic Wellbeing’s campaign #StressFreeshopping, by sharing some tips to make your shopping experience stress free and enjoyable when you have lack of mobility.
Preparing For The Journey
If you are commuting by a mobility scooter, then make sure your battery is fully charged. Have somebody check your wheels and give it a quick once over if possible. Maybe you are thinking of hiring one? Then make sure the hire company explain everything and fire away with any questions you may have, after all, they are there to help.
Toilet Access
Always check with customer services before you head off on your journey to see if they have a disabled toilet on site. Give them a call or visit their website. Some shopping villages do not have access to toilets and you have to rely on the store’s staff facilities which are unlikely to be accommodating for scooters/wheelchair users. Larger shopping centres have their own toilets on site that would be suitable.
Store Accessibility
Check beforehand if the shopping centre you want to visit is all on one floor, if not then you will need to see if they have access to a lift. Remember to check the store itself, if it is scooter/wheelchair friendly and has ample room for you to get around to save any disappointment. I would imagine it to be quite upsetting if you were really looking forward to visiting a particular store only to find they don’t cater for your needs.
I think everybody loves a bit of retail therapy and scooter/wheelchair users are no exception. I hope you enjoy some #StressFreeShopping on your next trip.
*In collaboration with Fenetic Wellbeing*
My mum had a mobility scooter and she was able to access so many places again