Shopping for groceries on a wheelchair can sometimes be difficult for some individuals. Some stores do not have any accessibility standards when it comes to product placement and the height of stands and other related storage spaces.
This sort of activity is a skill that is acquired through experience. More than likely you will have trouble the first few times you visit a supermarket for food. There are certainly ways to ease this process; learning what others have done online is probably the best way.
Extending your Reach
Your first tool of choice should be something that can extend your reach while in a supermarket. This would entail some type of device that allows you to reach places that you normally cannot.
A simple rod or stick would be good enough, make sure that it is long enough to reach even the top row of products. Getting familiar with your local grocery store is probably a good idea, go and scout the aisles, what are the things you regularly need in your fridge. Don’t be afraid to ask for help for certain things at first, this will provide you with assistance while you learn how to go about it on your own.
Storage Space for Groceries
When leaving the store, you will come to realize that you may need to store your things somewhere to get home. This situation would only happen if you don’t own a vehicle. To solve this issue, you can purchase an under the seat storage pouch, or a side pouch for your wheelchair armrest. You can also hang a backpack to the back of the chair and that may be enough.
While some grocery stores provide power scooters or related devices, you may feel more comfortable shopping from your own wheelchair. Lastly, don’t be afraid or ashamed to ask for help when you are shopping, ideally there should always be someone willing to help you out.
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