Shopping is a routine task that most people can carry out absent-mindedly in ordinary times. However, the effort is a little more demanding for those struggling with mobility problems.
Additionally, even non-disabled people have had occasional challenges securing their groceries in the last couple of years. The world has been affected by surges in panic-buying, and the Netherlands is no exception. The pandemic still is not over, and there is no telling whether these bouts of chaos are set to resume in the future.
If you suffer from mobility problems, doing your shopping can be a bothersome ordeal. Still, there are a few ways to make things a bit easier for yourself. We have listed them for you down below.
Secure a Mobility Aid
Wanting to get around yourself is commendable. However, you should not let your pride lead you to any sort of pain or discomfort.
You can still move freely and be independent with the support from a quality mobility aid. For instance, the Rollz Flex is a lightweight rollator that can accompany you on your trips. It can carry your shopping with its bag or even be used as a seat to rest on mid-trip. The handlebar is designed to offer maximum stability, even one-handedly.
These innovations only weigh 7,7kg and can also be folded. Carrying them onto a bus is easy and slotting them into temporary storage at home is efficient. Look at all the positive user experiences that can be found online and under the stories tab on the Rollz website for any additional assurances that you need.
Plan Routes Well
Shopping can be a logistical challenge at the best of times. If you suffer from mobility problems, then you may need to be more meticulous about the routes you end up taking.
There are many nice shopping areas in the Netherlands that you would undoubtedly enjoy exploring. However, while you should venture out at your whim, it may also be more prudent to pick your locations more practically. Those that are close by, or areas where you know what shops to expect, are advisable if your mobility problems cause regular discomfort or challenges.
It may also be worth researching the public transport that is available on your given route. That way, you can map out your journeys and get to or from certain locations in a timely fashion with minimal waiting periods.
Look into your favourite shops and see what disability access features they have too. Do they support all types of customers in-store? This information should be available on their respective websites. If you can’t find it, you could ring their customer service personnel for clarification or ask a loved one what the situation is like if they have visited before.
Consider Peak Shopping Times
Some shops are busier than others at certain times throughout the day. For example, many people may look to stock up on groceries after a Friday workday, making 5 pm-7 pm chaotic times to shop in every store.
Packed shops will be difficult to navigate. Try heading back at a quiet time of day so that you have clear access to the goods you need. You may also spend less time in queues this way, and generally get in and out faster.
Some stores are open 24 hours a day. They can often be eerily quiet late at night, so heading in then may be in your best interests, depending on your preferences. You could always experiment and see which times suit your lifestyle and routine the best.
Think About Online Shopping
If your mobility issues are causing you grief, there is no shame in finding alternate ways to secure your goods. You could divide your time too. For example, one day, you could shop in person with the support of your mobility aid, and the next trip required could be conducted online instead.
It didn’t take long for rates of online shopping to rise across the country and indeed the world. More people are getting their groceries this way, particularly since the pandemic. Have your groceries delivered straight to your door on occasion.
Another perk of this option is that some online shopping websites save your login, payment, and delivery information. You can also set up recurring orders so that you hardly need to click a button to get your groceries. All of this can help you to enjoy faster transactions at your convenience.
Conclusion
There are various ways to make your shopping trips easier if you, unfortunately, suffer from mobility problems. Some days may be harder than others for you, so try to be flexible and considerate of your own needs. A mobility aid can make a big difference, but after that, it is just a question of planning and looking for alternative solutions when necessary. Remember, you have options available, so keep that in mind when looking after yourself in future.
