10 Tips for Holiday Shopping With Restricted Mobility

For many of us, holiday shopping adds to the festivity of the season, giving us an excuse to get out and have some fun. However, navigating crowded malls and shopping centers with restricted mobility can be a challenge. Here are a few tips to keep you safe and help you get the most out of your holiday shopping experience.

1. Have a strategy: As fun as it is, shopping can also be stressful and tiring. Do not venture out without a game plan. Decide ahead of time how long you will shop, what time you will stop to eat or rest, and where you will go.
2. Make yourself seen: In a crush of shoppers, it is easy to get mowed over! Wear a bright jacket or hat, and attach a flag or balloon to your chair or walker so others can see you.
3. Keep your hands free: Using a backpack or fanny pack frees up your hands so you can move about, shop and stabilize your balance without juggling bags and packages.
4. Don’t become a victim: Sadly the holidays present opportunities for thieves and pickpockets. Stay alert to your surroundings, and keep valuables zipped up tight and on your person at all times.
5. Avoid peak hours: Crowds are definitely thinner during off-peak hours, and you are less likely to get crushed in the shuffle. Weekday mornings are a good time to shop with minimal crowding.
6. Shop online first: If you are looking for specific items, shop the stores online to view their inventory. Better yet, do your actual shopping online, so packages are delivered to your door. Then hit the mall for the fun, festivities and decorations.
7. Go with the flow: Large crowds tend to move in flow patterns. Go with the flow, and keep up the pace of the crowd. Lagging behind or rushing ahead can lead to a fall.
8. Hug the wall: To avoid being knocked over or blocking traffic, stick close to the side wall so others can easily go around you.
9. Scope out elevators and restrooms: Before beginning your shopping adventure, visit the mall website or stop by the help desk to locate available elevators and public restrooms. Doing so will make it easier to get around in the midst of shopping chaos.
10. Dress for success: For holiday shopping, comfort is key. Wear comfortable supportive shoes, and dress in layers so you can warm up or cool off as needed. Avoid overly bulky coats or jacket that are hard to lug around. Wear bottoms that are easy to remove to use the bathroom.

CertHealth.com has everything you need to help you get around during the holidays, safely and easily. Browse our site for quality accessories and home health care devices to make your life and the lives of your caregivers easier and more enjoyable. At CertHealth.com, we are dedicated to helping you enjoy the very best quality of life.