If there’s one thing Wellwise Home Health & Wellness wants people to know, it’s that they’re not just for seniors. Now operating independently from Shoppers Drug Mart, Wellwise® stores are a destination for people of all ages seeking medical and wellness products, along with expert guidance on how to use them.
“We’re very different from a regular retailer,” says Nellie Branco, Regional Manager at Wellwise®.
“We educate customers on how to properly use everything, whether it’s a piece of equipment or a brace.”
Wellwise® products support individuals recovering from surgery, living with chronic conditions, or simply looking to enhance their overall wellness. In addition to mobility aids such as walkers, canes, and scooters, the stores also carry a wide assortment of braces and supports, pain management tools from heating pads to massagers, SAD lamps, and compression socks for sports, diabetes, and other health needs.
A common thread across many Wellwise® offerings is the goal of helping people age with independence, comfort, and dignity— beginning with proactive strategies to stay healthy and prevent injury. For example, if you’re a runner, you might consider wearing supports to strengthen your ankles. “People want to age well,” says Nellie.
According to Nellie, the first step for the Wellwise® team is ensuring customers fully understand the product they are purchasing. If someone arrives with a prescription for a wrist brace, she will first confirm why it was prescribed. Understanding whether the concern is carpal tunnel syndrome, a sports injury, or another issue allows staff to recommend appropriate options and ensure a comfortable, effective fit.
“When customers come in here, they’re sometimes overwhelmed by the range of different products available. We explain the different brands, along with the benefits and the features of each option,” says Nellie. “It’s very important that our staff are trained and educated on the different products we carry.”
Wellwise® offers seniors discounts every Thursday. Many purchases at the store may be eligible for insurance coverage, benefits, or tax credits, and the Wellwise® Team is available to help customers navigate those options.
The business is also working to improve accessibility in other ways. Wellwise® customers are now able to book CPAP appointments online for their sleep apnea support, including setup, sleep data reviews, mask and machine fittings, and ongoing maintenance. To further enhance the in-person shopping experience, Wellwise® locations are carefully organized with clear product categories and an intuitive flow, and knowledgeable staff are always available to assist.
For years, Wellwise® has partnered with community organizations to raise awareness about products that make living and aging easier. These partnerships include retirement and long-term care homes, physicians, hospitals, as well as physiotherapy clinics and physio students. The Wellwise® team also educates customers on the government funding that’s available for mobility equipment.
Whether you’re a caregiver looking after an elderly parent or an athlete dealing with an injury, the team at Wellwise® can provide you with the product and expert advice you need. Nellie encourages customers to connect with Wellwise® or visit a store in person for personalized assistance. “We are truly a one-stop shop.”
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