Supermarket Trolleys for wheelchair users
As a home help that really believes in inclusion for the elderly I wanted to be able to take a 97 year old shopping with me rather than just “do it ” for her. I went to my local Tesco in Exmouth and asked at the customers service desk about pre-booking one of the specially designed trolleys that clip onto the frame of a wheelchair.
I was duly told that no such service was available and that such items were on a first come, first served basis. I said that in with ageing population I did feel that was acceptable and would raise the matter with Tesco Head Office.
Imagine the disappointment, let alone annoyance for someone elderly or disabled who arrives at any supermarket, not just Tesco, to find that due to a lack of provisions they are unable to shop.
I spoke to a couple, the gentleman was pushing his wife in the wheelchair. I asked her how important it was to her to be able to continue shopping with her husband and she said it was very important to her. It was nice for her to be included in decisions about food choices and meals still. Her husband said it was also important to him to keep his wife feeling useful and valued although she was less able now. He then added that I may like to let Tesco know that they trolleys are inadequately maintained. He said quite often the bars that clip to the frame of the wheelchair is broken, rendering them useless.
I am looking forward to contacting Tesco Head Office to see what they have to say on the matter of pre-booking disabled trolleys and also the wheelchairs.
Update! I have contacted Tesco and they are going to look at the idea. Good news. I have also offered my help as a consultant for the future to advise on all matters elderly.
Thank you Amy. I love the passionate posts. I can have a rant and put the world to rights. keep and eye out, there will be another one soon.
Nice post Caron. As many aids for the elderly that are available are important. I hope Supermarkets value their elderly wheelchair bound shoppers and will look into it. Some people may ask why theyn dont shop online, but the truth is that the elderly want to go about their normal business just like everyone esle. Another well written post.