Planning Ahead

Eggs, milk, dish soap, carrots … looks like someone’s getting ready for a trip to the grocery store. And making a list is a great way to start.

But there’s a lot more you can do to save time and make your grocery shopping go smoothly, no matter your level of vision. Let’s take a look at some tips for planning ahead before you go to the store. And let’s begin with that list.

You might be used to writing your grocery list with pen and paper. It’s helpful to write in bold, large print. Start with a pen that has a bold tip and dark-colored ink, and use paper with bold lines. If other members of your household are adding to your list, remind them to write in bold, large print, too. You can also write your list in braille.

Another handy way to get your grocery list started is to use an audio device, like a recorder, your smartphone, or even a digital assistant, like Alexa on the Amazon Echo. For some helpful tips on using the Amazon Echo, check out our Alexa workshops on tasks in the kitchen, and lists and reminders.

If you like to check the grocery store ads or coupons while you’re planning, a bold pen comes in handy here, too, to circle the items you’re interested in. And using a handheld or video magnifier can make it easier to find what you’re looking for.

If you’re a coupon user, here’s a neat way to organize them. Use a paper clip to attach each one to an index card that has a large print or braille label telling what the coupon is for. You can even add the expiration date. Then keep the cards and coupons in an envelope, or a plastic bag that zips closed. That makes it easier to keep track of them, and to take them with you to the store.

Here’s another great tip for using index cards to help with your shopping and planning. Label some index cards for the things you buy often, using large print or braille.

Then attach a card to each package with a rubber band. When you use up the item and the package is empty, keep the index card and put it aside. Then, when it’s time to shop, take the stack of cards with you. When you get your groceries home, you can attach the cards to each item again.

Another trick, for something that might be hard to find, is to keep the empty package. If you bring that empty vitamin bottle with you, for example, it’s easier for others to help you find exactly what you’re looking for. Now let’s get back to that list for a minute and talk about organizing it.

One way to make your shopping trip easier and faster is to arrange your list so it matches the layout of the store. For example, if you visit the produce section first, then move on to the bakery, and then dairy, group the items on your list so you can find them in that order. That way, you can grab everything you need in one section of the store before you move on, and you won’t have to backtrack.

If you always go to the same store and you know where to find things, you can even arrange your list by aisles. And if you’re not sure where to find everything, some stores offer a map online. Or they might offer a paper map at the front desk.

Another way to prepare for your shopping trip is to begin online. You can often find coupons to print, or to use with your smartphone.

And prices can be hard to read in the stores, but sometimes you can check prices before you go. Keep in mind that online prices might not match what you find in the store.

If you’re not familiar with the store you’re going to, or if you’d just like to do a trial run with someone who can help, don’t be shy about asking a friend or family member to join you. They can help you get used to the layout.

And they can even make a map, write some notes in large print, or use an audio recorder to make some helpful notes about landmarks and clues. Then you can use these handy resources the next time you visit the store on your own, or study them before you go, to help you feel more prepared.

If you’re not bringing a friend or family member, many stores are happy to provide help if you ask for a personal assistant who can walk through the store with you.

If you want to work with an assistant, it’s a great idea to call ahead and let the staff know what type of help you’re looking for. That way, they can be prepared and have someone ready as soon as you get there. Or they can let you know the best time to come in.

And even if you’re shopping on your own, you still might want to call ahead, just to find out when the store is less crowded.

Another smart way to get ready for your trip to the store is to be sure your wallet is organized ahead of time. Check out our workshop on money organization for some tips on using paper money, a credit or debit card, and more.

And here’s a tip that comes in handy if you use a rewards card for your store: Mark it ahead of time with a label, a paper clip, or a piece of tape, to make it easier to find at checkout time.

As always, if you need more information or you've got your own tips to share, contact a Hadley learning expert. Of course, as with anything new, give yourself time, patience and practice, and you'll get there.