New store answers mobility questions

EMMA SPILLETT

KIAMA became home to a unique store this month, providing products for people with disabilities and mobility issues.

Mobility 4 Life, operating on Manning St, sells a wide range of products that aim to make everyday life easier for disabled people and those with mobility problems.

Store owner Christine Michaloudakis said the store offered health care items for all areas of the home.

“I’ve got products for the bedroom, bathroom and toilet,” she said. “I will also be selling a range of mobility scooters, electric lift chairs and recliners that allow people to sleep.”

Ms Michaloudakis said it was the daily living aids that would prove the most useful.

“Just things like special cutlery, taps and items to help people put their shoes on make a big difference,” she said.

Formerly from Sydney, Ms Michaloudakis spent many years working for the public service before making the decision to open the store in the area.

“I think there is a demand for it, but it’s just a matter of people finding out about it,” she said.

“One of the big reasons we decided to come to Kiama was the amazing retirement age here.

“There is a retirement village in Kiama with hundreds of self-contained units and a general population, plus the village in Gerringong, which is only a five-minute drive away.”

The choice to focus on mobility products was a result of Ms Michaloudakis’ role in caring for her mother for six years.

“I felt like mum was sending me a message about what I should do, so I decided to open the store and now people hear me say all the time, ‘oh, I wish I had that for mum’,” she said.

Ms Michaloudakis hoped the business would offer services to people from Nowra to Wollongong and help to provide better access to products for people in the area.

“It is a niche market and I know of only two other stores in the region selling these products,” she said.

“Previously, there have been bus trips from Kiama to Wollongong to stock up on items, but now people won’t need to.”

Offering sale and hire options, Ms Michaloudakis aimed to cater to people on a range of budgets.

“Some people may have a hip or knee replacement and don’t necessarily need to buy the products so they can hire as well,” she said.

“There is a wide price range and I want to cater to people on a pension as well as self-funded retirees.”

The store is open Monday to Friday from 8.30am to 5pm, Saturday 8.30am to 4pm and Sunday, by appointment only.

For more information or inquiries, phone 4232 4051.