If you're familiar with Kmart, like we are here at the SDC, then you know that it offers an incredibly diverse selection of products to meet various needs and lifestyles.

One section that has proven particularly valuable for many people, including those with mobility issues and disabilities, is the 'Independent Living' range. This range can be found online and in-store, and offers a variety of specialty items designed for individuals who use mobility aids.

For example, you can find a shopping trolley with a seat priced at $79, folding walking sticks for $15, mobility walkers for $89, wheelchairs for $169, as well as a range of handrails, cushions, and bathroom accessories.

These items greatly enhance the ability of seniors and mobility-challenged individuals to live independently within their homes.

However, Kmart has recently decided to discontinue selling this range. As a result, all those valuable products are no longer available.

Kmart discreetly removed its 'Independent Living' range from its online platform and physical stores, disappointing customers. Credit: Kmart.

This decision was confirmed by a Kmart spokesperson, who said: 'Yes, we have stopped selling a small number of products in the independent living range. Unfortunately, at this time, there hasn't been a demand for those particular products.'

However, he also mentioned that the store still has a wide range of products promoting inclusivity, well-being, and exercise. These products aim to support customers of all ages and abilities, encompassing various categories.

'Being able to give our customers access to the everyday products they need is at the core of who we are, and we are constantly looking for new and innovative products and ranges that we think our customers will love and will make their everyday living brighter,' explained the spokesperson.

One understandably distressed customer spoke to a news outlet about the disappearance of the Independent Living range, explaining how it personally affected her and her husband.

'I went onto the Kmart website to purchase some items for my husband, who is in the hospital and has mobility issues as a result of his illness,' the shopper explained.

'I have many friends who have purchased walkers and shower seats from Kmart because they're so well-priced. But now, in the Independent Living section, there is only one item: a reduced foam cushion.'

'I was pretty upset. I am a pensioner, and I am now worried about how I'm going to afford these items for my husband. It makes me angry that Kmart isn't catering to a whole group of customers who need them.'

Key Takeaways

• Kmart Australia has quietly removed the 'Independent Living' range from online and in-store, causing customer disappointment.
• The range included items for people with mobility issues and disabilities, such as walking sticks, wheelchairs, and bathroom accessories.
• A Kmart spokesperson confirmed the products were removed due to a lack of demand but noted other inclusive products are still available.
• The decision has prompted angry responses from customers, especially those who rely on affordable items to support their mobility and independence.

Members, we want to hear your thoughts on this unexpected and baffling decision by Kmart. Are you disappointed with the removal of the Independent Living range? Have you previously relied on these products for yourself or a loved one? We encourage you to share your opinions, experiences, and feelings in the comments below.

As always, we'll keep our eyes peeled for alternative affordable options for our community and share any promising discoveries with you all. Stay tuned!

 

[Jest]

If you're familiar with Kmart, like we are here at the SDC, then you know that it offers an incredibly diverse selection of products to meet various needs and lifestyles.

One section that has proven particularly valuable for many people, including those with mobility issues and disabilities, is the 'Independent Living' range. This range can be found online and in-store, and offers a variety of specialty items designed for individuals who use mobility aids.

For example, you can find a shopping trolley with a seat priced at $79, folding walking sticks for $15, mobility walkers for $89, wheelchairs for $169, as well as a range of handrails, cushions, and bathroom accessories.

These items greatly enhance the ability of seniors and mobility-challenged individuals to live independently within their homes.

However, Kmart has recently decided to discontinue selling this range. As a result, all those valuable products are no longer available.

View attachment 22645

Kmart discreetly removed its 'Independent Living' range from its online platform and physical stores, disappointing customers. Credit: Kmart.

This decision was confirmed by a Kmart spokesperson, who said: 'Yes, we have stopped selling a small number of products in the independent living range. Unfortunately, at this time, there hasn't been a demand for those particular products.'

However, he also mentioned that the store still has a wide range of products promoting inclusivity, well-being, and exercise. These products aim to support customers of all ages and abilities, encompassing various categories.

'Being able to give our customers access to the everyday products they need is at the core of who we are, and we are constantly looking for new and innovative products and ranges that we think our customers will love and will make their everyday living brighter,' explained the spokesperson.

One understandably distressed customer spoke to a news outlet about the disappearance of the Independent Living range, explaining how it personally affected her and her husband.

'I went onto the Kmart website to purchase some items for my husband, who is in the hospital and has mobility issues as a result of his illness,' the shopper explained.

'I have many friends who have purchased walkers and shower seats from Kmart because they're so well-priced. But now, in the Independent Living section, there is only one item: a reduced foam cushion.'

'I was pretty upset. I am a pensioner, and I am now worried about how I'm going to afford these items for my husband. It makes me angry that Kmart isn't catering to a whole group of customers who need them.'

Key Takeaways

• Kmart Australia has quietly removed the 'Independent Living' range from online and in-store, causing customer disappointment.
• The range included items for people with mobility issues and disabilities, such as walking sticks, wheelchairs, and bathroom accessories.
• A Kmart spokesperson confirmed the products were removed due to a lack of demand but noted other inclusive products are still available.
• The decision has prompted angry responses from customers, especially those who rely on affordable items to support their mobility and independence.

Members, we want to hear your thoughts on this unexpected and baffling decision by Kmart. Are you disappointed with the removal of the Independent Living range? Have you previously relied on these products for yourself or a loved one? We encourage you to share your opinions, experiences, and feelings in the comments below.

As always, we'll keep our eyes peeled for alternative affordable options for our community and share any promising discoveries with you all. Stay tuned!

there are other places to purchase these items, so why the moaning?

 

[Jest]

As usual us oldies are disregarded and thrown to the rubbish pile, they should have given us a time period to buy these items say 3 months so we could stock up for all our mobility needs at a reasonable price. Good one Kmart I feel so disheartened at your concern for us oldies.

why would you want to stock up on walkies and such?

 

[Littleboy8]

If you're familiar with Kmart, like we are here at the SDC, then you know that it offers an incredibly diverse selection of products to meet various needs and lifestyles.

One section that has proven particularly valuable for many people, including those with mobility issues and disabilities, is the 'Independent Living' range. This range can be found online and in-store, and offers a variety of specialty items designed for individuals who use mobility aids.

For example, you can find a shopping trolley with a seat priced at $79, folding walking sticks for $15, mobility walkers for $89, wheelchairs for $169, as well as a range of handrails, cushions, and bathroom accessories.

These items greatly enhance the ability of seniors and mobility-challenged individuals to live independently within their homes.

However, Kmart has recently decided to discontinue selling this range. As a result, all those valuable products are no longer available.

View attachment 22645

Kmart discreetly removed its 'Independent Living' range from its online platform and physical stores, disappointing customers. Credit: Kmart.

This decision was confirmed by a Kmart spokesperson, who said: 'Yes, we have stopped selling a small number of products in the independent living range. Unfortunately, at this time, there hasn't been a demand for those particular products.'

However, he also mentioned that the store still has a wide range of products promoting inclusivity, well-being, and exercise. These products aim to support customers of all ages and abilities, encompassing various categories.

'Being able to give our customers access to the everyday products they need is at the core of who we are, and we are constantly looking for new and innovative products and ranges that we think our customers will love and will make their everyday living brighter,' explained the spokesperson.

One understandably distressed customer spoke to a news outlet about the disappearance of the Independent Living range, explaining how it personally affected her and her husband.

'I went onto the Kmart website to purchase some items for my husband, who is in the hospital and has mobility issues as a result of his illness,' the shopper explained.

'I have many friends who have purchased walkers and shower seats from Kmart because they're so well-priced. But now, in the Independent Living section, there is only one item: a reduced foam cushion.'

'I was pretty upset. I am a pensioner, and I am now worried about how I'm going to afford these items for my husband. It makes me angry that Kmart isn't catering to a whole group of customers who need them.'

Key Takeaways

• Kmart Australia has quietly removed the 'Independent Living' range from online and in-store, causing customer disappointment.
• The range included items for people with mobility issues and disabilities, such as walking sticks, wheelchairs, and bathroom accessories.
• A Kmart spokesperson confirmed the products were removed due to a lack of demand but noted other inclusive products are still available.
• The decision has prompted angry responses from customers, especially those who rely on affordable items to support their mobility and independence.

Members, we want to hear your thoughts on this unexpected and baffling decision by Kmart. Are you disappointed with the removal of the Independent Living range? Have you previously relied on these products for yourself or a loved one? We encourage you to share your opinions, experiences, and feelings in the comments below.

As always, we'll keep our eyes peeled for alternative affordable options for our community and share any promising discoveries with you all. Stay tuned!

Onya Kmart! What a low act!

 

[Nana Zorak]

never knew they existed there. Where were they hiding. They only have to keep a couple of everything- but no - purchasing price will be higher as if they can't afford it to have less profit. Yet some chemists can carry a few but higher priced. These products are not easy to locate. Buying online does not help- if you are tall for one thing you need to check height of walkers and sticks so you aren't bent over.

Buying from the Independent LivingSpeciality store online can be excessively expensive as they jack up the prices sky-high so you have to have a MASS entitlement for them so the Government pays not you. Unless you have no MASS entitlement then you have to pay from your own pocket at the price settled by them. I have checked out their prices & they are selling a sock aid for $26.99 when I bought one from the Quail book for under $16.00. Plus they have a toilet help at $99.00. whereas the same thing at Quail is $19.99. A saving of $80.00.

 

[siameezer]

there are other places to purchase these items, so why the moaning?

What a vile comment! Nice that you seem to be rich enough to afford the exorbitant markup other stores add to identical products. Some compassion and empathy for those in different circumstances wouldn't go astray.

 

[Milica]

Kmart lost me as a customer when it went all WOKE, and cared more for Social Justice issues than its customers, like refusing to sell anything with an Australian flag on it on Australia Day.

But they are making profits in Australia! - that's just plain rude - i thought it was an Australian company? It would not take up too much space to have a few I/L range items in one corner, when you have cushions, doonas/sheets etc that take up ailes full - they should be catering for all ages of the public arena, that shop there for different items, otherwise don't put them out there to see how they go & then if not a good seller in $ terms, get rid of it - these are not your everyday items, but to some shoppers they are essential items - at least have them on-line, think about the convenience for your customers and the ones who have to travel, & do hours to get to a K-Mart Store or any store for that matter - Plse reconsider Kmart.

 

[Milica]

Buying from the Independent LivingSpeciality store online can be excessively expensive as they jack up the prices sky-high so you have to have a MASS entitlement for them so the Government pays not you. Unless you have no MASS entitlement then you have to pay from your own pocket at the price settled by them. I have checked out their prices & they are selling a sock aid for $26.99 when I bought one from the Quail book for under $16.00. Plus they have a toilet help at $99.00. whereas the same thing at Quail is $19.99. A saving of $80.00.

So sad to read that businesses are still putting the $ before peoples ability to be able to afford to purchase health aids - lets hope they don't find themselves in the same position as they age, only then will they get the understanding of how it feels! You are a good shopper & i like the sound of Quail:_)

 

[Judith1946]

I live in Victoria and there is no need for pensioners to buy disability aids as these are available to disabled people through the State Wide Equipment Program. Your doctor, physiotherapist or occupational therapists will assist you to access these services. They provide bed, walking, home and kitchen aids of all kinds up to and including electric lift chairs, ride on scooters and walkers. Your local council assessor’s will be able to help you. You will find there is sometimes a small payment from yourselves but the program provides the bulk.

 

[siameezer]

I live in Victoria and there is no need for pensioners to buy disability aids as these are available to disabled people through the State Wide Equipment Program. Your doctor, physiotherapist or occupational therapists will assist you to access these services. They provide bed, walking, home and kitchen aids of all kinds up to and including electric lift chairs, ride on scooters and walkers. Your local council assessor’s will be able to help you. You will find there is sometimes a small payment from yourselves but the program provides the bulk.

Not true. You have to be over a certain age to get the Aged Care assessment to qualify and if you are just under that age then NDIS won't help you as you are too old.

 

[ElizaKaye]

Didn't know they even stocked them. But I do know that the specialty shops for handicap people are very expensive.

 

[Cube80]

If you're familiar with Kmart, like we are here at the SDC, then you know that it offers an incredibly diverse selection of products to meet various needs and lifestyles.

One section that has proven particularly valuable for many people, including those with mobility issues and disabilities, is the 'Independent Living' range. This range can be found online and in-store, and offers a variety of specialty items designed for individuals who use mobility aids.

For example, you can find a shopping trolley with a seat priced at $79, folding walking sticks for $15, mobility walkers for $89, wheelchairs for $169, as well as a range of handrails, cushions, and bathroom accessories.

These items greatly enhance the ability of seniors and mobility-challenged individuals to live independently within their homes.

However, Kmart has recently decided to discontinue selling this range. As a result, all those valuable products are no longer available.

View attachment 22645

Kmart discreetly removed its 'Independent Living' range from its online platform and physical stores, disappointing customers. Credit: Kmart.

This decision was confirmed by a Kmart spokesperson, who said: 'Yes, we have stopped selling a small number of products in the independent living range. Unfortunately, at this time, there hasn't been a demand for those particular products.'

However, he also mentioned that the store still has a wide range of products promoting inclusivity, well-being, and exercise. These products aim to support customers of all ages and abilities, encompassing various categories.

'Being able to give our customers access to the everyday products they need is at the core of who we are, and we are constantly looking for new and innovative products and ranges that we think our customers will love and will make their everyday living brighter,' explained the spokesperson.

One understandably distressed customer spoke to a news outlet about the disappearance of the Independent Living range, explaining how it personally affected her and her husband.

'I went onto the Kmart website to purchase some items for my husband, who is in the hospital and has mobility issues as a result of his illness,' the shopper explained.

'I have many friends who have purchased walkers and shower seats from Kmart because they're so well-priced. But now, in the Independent Living section, there is only one item: a reduced foam cushion.'

'I was pretty upset. I am a pensioner, and I am now worried about how I'm going to afford these items for my husband. It makes me angry that Kmart isn't catering to a whole group of customers who need them.'

Key Takeaways

• Kmart Australia has quietly removed the 'Independent Living' range from online and in-store, causing customer disappointment.
• The range included items for people with mobility issues and disabilities, such as walking sticks, wheelchairs, and bathroom accessories.
• A Kmart spokesperson confirmed the products were removed due to a lack of demand but noted other inclusive products are still available.
• The decision has prompted angry responses from customers, especially those who rely on affordable items to support their mobility and independence.

Members, we want to hear your thoughts on this unexpected and baffling decision by Kmart. Are you disappointed with the removal of the Independent Living range? Have you previously relied on these products for yourself or a loved one? We encourage you to share your opinions, experiences, and feelings in the comments below.

As always, we'll keep our eyes peeled for alternative affordable options for our community and share any promising discoveries with you all. Stay tuned

 

[Milica]

why would you want to stock up on walkies and such?

Do have a think about it - especially if there are partners who need them, family and friends that live a long way from a store, and getting them at a certain price, before they too go up!_!

 

[Cube80]

there are other places to purchase these items, so why the moaning?

But tge prices were SO good. Such a shame they have decided not to stick these items.Probably a lot of people were unaware they did stock them.KMart is a great shop Hope they decide to go back to stocking these items

 

[Trudi]

Interesting reading the comments. Most people were not aware that Kmart was selling those items but are outraged that they have been discontinued

 

[Milica]

Interesting reading the comments. Most people were not aware that Kmart was selling those items but are outraged that they have been discontinued

The point is the convenience for people who NEED these items - i don't think that's funny!!!

 

[Jennylolo]

there are other places to purchase these items, so why the moaning?

that very much depends on where you live and any such disability store even exists anywhere within reason.

 

[SGH]

The range that Kmart stocked were not the quality you would expect of these devices. A friends brakes went on his wheelie walker and he went to Kmart hoping to get one of theirs and swap the brake cables out, however, when we looked at it his frayed cable would probably last longer than the one being sold at the store. I ended up taking him to a mobility supplier where he could purchase new cables.

 

[starrysnan]

These products were a good alternative and a lot cheaper than going to a disabled equipment company. Sometimes things are also available at the council treasure trove shop. We found a bed rail for $4 a few years ago - not a scratch on it and its retail was closer to $100 at the equipment shop. My husband says its the best $4 he ever spent!

 

[Littleboy8]

The range that Kmart stocked were not the quality you would expect of these devices. A friends brakes went on his wheelie walker and he went to Kmart hoping to get one of theirs and swap the brake cables out, however, when we looked at it his frayed cable would probably last longer than the one being sold at the store. I ended up taking him to a mobility supplier where he could purchase new cables.

 

[classicred]

If you're familiar with Kmart, like we are here at the SDC, then you know that it offers an incredibly diverse selection of products to meet various needs and lifestyles.

One section that has proven particularly valuable for many people, including those with mobility issues and disabilities, is the 'Independent Living' range. This range can be found online and in-store, and offers a variety of specialty items designed for individuals who use mobility aids.

For example, you can find a shopping trolley with a seat priced at $79, folding walking sticks for $15, mobility walkers for $89, wheelchairs for $169, as well as a range of handrails, cushions, and bathroom accessories.

These items greatly enhance the ability of seniors and mobility-challenged individuals to live independently within their homes.

However, Kmart has recently decided to discontinue selling this range. As a result, all those valuable products are no longer available.

View attachment 22645

Kmart discreetly removed its 'Independent Living' range from its online platform and physical stores, disappointing customers. Credit: Kmart.

This decision was confirmed by a Kmart spokesperson, who said: 'Yes, we have stopped selling a small number of products in the independent living range. Unfortunately, at this time, there hasn't been a demand for those particular products.'

However, he also mentioned that the store still has a wide range of products promoting inclusivity, well-being, and exercise. These products aim to support customers of all ages and abilities, encompassing various categories.

'Being able to give our customers access to the everyday products they need is at the core of who we are, and we are constantly looking for new and innovative products and ranges that we think our customers will love and will make their everyday living brighter,' explained the spokesperson.

One understandably distressed customer spoke to a news outlet about the disappearance of the Independent Living range, explaining how it personally affected her and her husband.

'I went onto the Kmart website to purchase some items for my husband, who is in the hospital and has mobility issues as a result of his illness,' the shopper explained.

'I have many friends who have purchased walkers and shower seats from Kmart because they're so well-priced. But now, in the Independent Living section, there is only one item: a reduced foam cushion.'

'I was pretty upset. I am a pensioner, and I am now worried about how I'm going to afford these items for my husband. It makes me angry that Kmart isn't catering to a whole group of customers who need them.'

Key Takeaways

• Kmart Australia has quietly removed the 'Independent Living' range from online and in-store, causing customer disappointment.
• The range included items for people with mobility issues and disabilities, such as walking sticks, wheelchairs, and bathroom accessories.
• A Kmart spokesperson confirmed the products were removed due to a lack of demand but noted other inclusive products are still available.
• The decision has prompted angry responses from customers, especially those who rely on affordable items to support their mobility and independence.

This is extremely disappointing and now forces customers to go to a disability aids specialist store where everything is overpriced. They hike their prices because a lots of NIDS and HCP clients shop there and of course they're not footing the bill. One recliner $3600...ridiculous!

Members, we want to hear your thoughts on this unexpected and baffling decision by Kmart. Are you disappointed with the removal of the Independent Living range? Have you previously relied on these products for yourself or a loved one? We encourage you to share your opinions, experiences, and feelings in the comments below.

As always, we'll keep our eyes peeled for alternative affordable options for our community and share any promising discoveries with you all. Stay tuned!