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!

 

[ElizabethL]

They might of made sales if they took time to promote these items instead of pushing rainbows and unicorns!

That’s the type of store it is. It’s for people dreaming of getting items like unicorns and rainbows at an affordable price.
The items for us oldies, like described in the original post have other stores that sell them and I’m sure they would be selling a much safer product.
People tend to do their research online so I am assuming that anyone looking for a wheelchair, walker or similar would have had Kmarts products pop up in the search.
These are just my opinions.
Have a beautiful day.

 

[52KID]

I am another who didn't know until recently that KMart stocked these items - I had never seen them until recently. I must admit though that most of what I have needed I bought from the local specialist store which is priced fairly reasonably, or from Marketplace or eBay. I got my walker in very good condition for only $35 - you just have to look around.

 

[Col@45]

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!

All about the mighty dollar !! If Kmart are not making money on items, they don't care about people who may need these items....very sad.

 

[Kaylee]

I've bought a few things from the Assisted Living range & they are quite good. Kmart had them hidden
in a back corner that people rarely went. I was buying them as I could afford them. Now I'm going to have
to source them elsewhere. Kmart you suck!!!