Most Texas State students don’t have trouble shopping, reading labels, and getting through marketplaces with ease. But for senior citizens, that same process is equivalent to being in a maze at a carnival, with cataracts to add to it.
To address this concern, the Kimberly-Clark Corporation sought to show executives at Walgreen Co. and other stores how difficult it was to shop as a senior citizen. Walgreen’s VP sported special glasses that blurred his eyesight and filled his shoes with un-popped popcorn to shop a day in the life of the elderly.
According to the Federal Interagency Forum on Aging-Related Statistics, by the year 2030 those over 65 will account for more than 71.5 million people. And by 2011, that same age group will be spending an extra $50 billion in consumer products making the need for change fast approaching.
Kimberly-Clark Corp. states that by making accommodations that are “elderly-friendly” such as closer parking spots and maneuverable shopping carts, stores can increase their loyal customers.
Some changes the Walgreen stores are preparing to make are better lighting, available magnifying glasses and call buttons for heavy-item help. Costs per store range from $30,000 to $50,000.
And those costs could be well worth it based on the number of baby boomers that are encroaching on the senior citizen label.
But in the meantime, while all these changes are being discussed and arranged, why don’t we put our health, our eyesight, and our courtesy out to senior citizens who need help shopping? Sounds good.
This article was from: http://global.factiva.com.libproxy.txstate.edu/ga/default.aspx?imt=2&ao=5&aod=0
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