Age UK has published a report ‘Age-friendly business: valuing and including older consumers in supermarkets and service companies’.
In this report Age UK asks for a more age-friendly approach as over 65s believe they are overlooked as consumers.
- Almost half of those over 65 believe that retailers have little interest in the needs of older people
- Over 65s say their priorities when shopping are parking, manned checkouts and staff politeness
Older households spend an estimated total of £145 billion per year on goods and services, but four in ten of those over 65 believe businesses have little interest in their consumer needs. The report provides an interesting insight into the priorities of shoppers over 65.
Age UK’s top tips for creating an age-friendly business;
Toilets and seats – provide these essential facilities to give people the confidence to come into your store and linger for longer.
Online – ensure websites are well-designed and user-friendly for everyone.
Paying – support people with dementia-friendly, manned checkouts.
Telephone – ensure call handlers speak clearly, with patience and respect.
Don’t Ignore – do not ignore older shoppers or make assumptions about what they need.
Point out – design a safe and easy to navigate environment and help older people find what they need as required.
Service – provide excellent customer service, including polite, helpful and patient staff.
Read the report here
Public Health News 