Many senior citizens living in assisted care facilities depend upon family, friends and staff to meet their needs. Due to issues with mobility and limited transportation options, seniors often find themselves unable to purchase the personal products they crave, from face cream to potato chips. For many older adults, this loss of independence and control can be frustrating and dispiriting. Dr. Eleanor Feldman Barbera came up with a simple solution – the Independence Cart. A “store on wheels,” the Independence Cart includes basic supplies – from stationary to snacks – available for purchase. The cart not only provides residents with a chance to make simple purchases, it frees up time for staff and family members often burdened with fulfilling these requests. Though some facilities have experimented with candy carts in the past – often to disastrous dietary results – Dr. Barbera champions the idea. “I believe this concept, taken in the right direction, could be successful in every way.” At one senior living property located in the middle-class borough of Queens, the Independence Cart delivers more than greeting cards and candy bars; it provides the chance to exert some self-sufficiency. At the helm of this mobile shopping mall is 96-year-old Trudy Schwartz (pictured). Though small in stature, and older than some of her customers, Trudy feels energized by the hours she spends volunteering at the center. “I’ve been so fortunate all my life that I really feel I have to do something to give back,” Trudy admits in an interview with Dr. Barbera about the cart. “I have lovely children and grandchildren and good health. Sure, I’ve had troubles, but for the most part, I’ve been very fortunate.” Trudy took over the cart from another volunteer after spending time at the center visiting her...