A recent study from the University of Portsmouth has found that older customers may feel powerless and vulnerable when it comes to opening everyday goods.

According to the study, difficulties that the elderly face opening their products not only increase the risk of packaging-related injuries, but have a negative impact on their self-esteem.

With age, dexterity and physical strength decreases, making it difficult for the elderly to open packages. Deteriorating eyesight also makes it harder to read product labels. It’s not always easy to ask for help and the loss of independence can create the feeling of uselessness and cause physiological distress.

Our population is ageing and there are currently 11.4 million people aged 65 or over in the UK and this number is projected to rise by over 40 per cent within the next 17 years. 3.5 million of the over 65’s live on their own* and with this in mind, it is becoming increasingly important to take measures to support the needs of elderly customers.

Resealable packaging, including Reseal-it® by Macfarlane Labels, is easy to open and doesn’t require additional items such as knives or scissors to access difficult to open packages. This ensures convenient access and limits the likelihood of packaging–related injuries.

Reseal-it® packs also offer a better portion-rationing as they can be opened and closed up to 25 times, keeping products fresh for longer.

If you have a question or would like to find out more about Reseal-it®, please visit our website www.resealit.com or email enquiries@resealit.com

References:
Packaging News, Study says packaging can leave older consumers feeling powerless: http://www.packagingnews.co.uk/news/study-says-packaging-can-leave-older-consumers-feeling-powerless-03-02-2016

*Later Life in the United Kingdom: http://www.ageuk.org.uk/Documents/EN-GB/Factsheets/Later_Life_UK_factsheet.pdf?dtrk=true