Shopping in a supermarket with visual impairment

Shopping as a Visually Impaired Person

Shopping in a supermarket with a visual impairment.

Living independently as a visually impaired (VI) person presents many challenges and shopping is one of the most significant – from navigating crowded aisles to reading product labels, there are numerous obstacles.

However, with thoughtful planning and the right tools, shopping can become a more manageable and enjoyable experience.

Let’s explore the common issues and practical solutions.

The Weekly Grocery Shop

Shopping for groceries is a routine task for many, but finding a basket or trolley, navigating the store, reading labels, and using self-checkouts can be difficult for those with visual impairments.

Supermarkets often provide staff assistance specifically for VI customers, so ask for help with locating items and navigating the store – it can make a huge difference.

Additionally, technology can be a valuable aid; apps like Be My Eyes and Seeing AI assist with reading labels and identifying products.

TOP TIP: Planning your trip to avoid peak hours also makes the experience more manageable.

Buying Clothes and Shoes

Clothes shopping involves unique challenges, including subdued lighting, cluttered layouts and floor obstacles.

Many stores have apps that offer virtual tours and product searches, and some provide personal shopping services for VI customers, which can be incredibly helpful.

TOP TIP: Shopping with a sighted friend can make the experience more enjoyable and efficient.

Electronics, White Goods and Furniture

Shopping for larger items such as white goods and furniture can be difficult as it can be hard to imagine how items will suit you or fit into your home without seeing them.

Researching online for reviews and specifications that highlight accessibility features will always be helpful. Additionally, consider visiting accessible showrooms and contacting specialised retailers that focus on products for blind and partially sighted people.

TOP TIP: YouTube is full of professional product reviews that provide lots of information and presented in an accessible way.

The Joy of Shopping

Whilst shopping can be enjoyable, busy environments like markets and sales can be overwhelming, so visiting these places during quieter times is often better.

TOP TIP: Some markets have apps that provide vendor maps and product listings, which can also be very useful.

Online Shopping

Online shopping is a convenient alternative but comes with its own set of issues

Not all websites are compatible with assistive technology, and crowded pages with hyperlinks can be challenging to navigate.

Sticking to websites known for their accessibility features and using your device’s accessibility settings can enhance your browsing experience.

TOP TIP: Check out recommendations from forums and community groups to find the best online stores for VI shoppers.

Shopping with Confidence

Successfully shopping as a visually impaired person is achievable with a bit of planning and the right resources.

Try to always plan your trip by knowing what you need, when to go, and how to carry your purchases.

TOP TIP: A rucksack can help keep your hands free.

If possible familiarise yourself with the store layout, bus routes and shop timings.

Technology apps like Be My Eyes, Seeing AI, and Google Maps all provide invaluable assistance. The Warwickshire Vision Support website also has lots of useful information.

Finally, don’t be shy to ask for help from store staff or other shoppers.

Remember, the more you practice, the more confident you will become.

Happy shopping!

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