The 78-year-old, who has a bad back and trouble walking bought a small microwave. While a shop assistant helped her choose a microwave and loaded it into her trolley, store policy did not allow anyone to help her lift the item into her car.

But there was also no way Ms Johnson could lift the item.

Ms Johnson felt stuck and has since struggled to find alternative options. She shares her story for awareness, feeling a lack of advocacy for other independent seniors or people with disabilities.

"It's quite embarrassing, for a simple thing like that. There must be dozens of people with the same or similar issues," Ms Johnson said. "I would never ask if I could do it."

Ms Johnson almost asked for her money back but needed the microwave and felt it a hassle to drive about trying to find another store that might help.

Angered, Ms Johnson said she rang the franchise's head office and was told next time she could ask to drive around to the loading dock. Only, Ms Johnson said it was unclear who would actually lift the microwave off the dock into her car.

Paying for home delivery adds an extra cost.

"I don't know what the answer is," Ms Johnson said. "I just had to wait for another customer to come along in the car park. The lovely man who did help was just a gentleman - there are still nice people about."

Ms Johnson's neighbour could help her carry the microwave inside, once she was home.

IN OTHER NEWS

A range of seniors and disability advocacy groups contacted by The Courier were on leave and not available for comment. Supermarket chains Coles and Woolworths offer accessible services.

The Courier understands carry-to-car services vary between stores.

Ms Johnson said she had never been caught out like that before but would carefully consider where she shopped next time she might need an extra hand.