It is holiday time again and time to get into the media infused shopping frenzy! Before you head out into the mall jungle, here are some survival tips for wheelchair users.
1. Avoid the Weekends: If at all possible avoid the Saturday and Sunday madness during the holidays. Even though there might be more entertainment on weekends, the long line ups and masses of people aren’t worth it. To avoid all the headaches, weekday holiday shopping is the way to go.
2. Make a List and Check it Twice: You have your list but you also want to make sure you are getting the best deals, so do some comparison shopping BEFORE heading to the mall. That way you avoid wasting time and you get the best prices.
3. Take Your Time: You might be excited to get all your shopping done as quickly as possible but keep in mind that malls are public places so you will have to go at walking speeds, to be on the safe side. People can pop out of nowhere, so keep it nice and slow for safety purposes.
4. Elevator Hunt: There are other elevators besides the main ones in the mall. Most department stores have a lone unused elevator that is not crowded. Use those to quickly and easily get from one level to the next.
5. Pack Sustenance: Pack a healthy snack or fuel up before you head out. People with disabilities might find it difficult to eat fast food. You should pack something that’s sweet and salty along with something to drink preferably water.
6. Take Up Help Offers: Make use of the perky store clerk who is more than willing to help. No need for you to scoot all over the store. Sure you want to prove your independence, but this is a good time to take advantage of their offer for help. You will save yourself lots of time and frustration trying to move around a packed store plus you will make the clerk feel like they are being really helpful.
Be sure to have fun with your holiday shopping. With just a bit of planning, you will be able to enjoy doing your holiday shopping just as much as able bodied people, even while in a wheelchair.
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