Grocery shopping can be a difficult task for a senior who has limited mobility and decreased physical strength.  Navigating the isles of the grocery store, reaching for high objects and reading labels and price tags can make grocery shopping a daunting chore, so much so, that a senior may jeopardize their nutrition by eating only frozen, microwavable foods, or not eating at all, to avoid the grocery store.  A caregiver can ensure their senior friend or family member gets the nutrition they need by accompanying them to the store or doing the shopping for them.   Consider these tips to help you make the most of your shopping trip:

• When shopping with a senior, try not to take charge. Let them make decisions for themselves regarding the types of items/brands they want to buy.  Remain patient and be prepared for your shopping trip to take longer than usual.
• When checking out, stay in the background so that the other person can converse with the cashier and pay for the groceries. As seniors age and find themselves needing to rely more and more on others for help with daily tasks, it is important to recognize their need for independence too.  Treat the person with the dignity you would expect if you were in their situation.
• Create a master grocery list on the computer listing every item he/she needs wants, including details such as specific brands and flavors, etc. Print this list each week and leave it in an obvious place for your friend to check off items as he/she runs out, creating a grocery list.
• When shopping without your senior friend, keep in mind any limitations your friend may have. Purchase smaller containers that are easy to lift when buying items such as milk and detergent.  Also, select products that are easy to open, such as pop top cans and non-child proof medications.
• Buy smaller portion sizes to avoid wasting money on foods that will spoil before they are eaten since many seniors find their appetites diminishing.
• Check in regularly with your senior friend to make sure you are buying what he/she wants and needs or if there are any changes that need to be made.
• When putting the groceries away at their house, keep in mind your friend’s preferences for how he/she would like the items stored. Don’t reorganize their kitchen unless they ask you to do this.  Some people have over 50 years of routines that matter to them and it’s important to keep items where he/she will be able to find them.  Be respectful of your friend’s choices and organization.

 

By Amber Triebull