I have seen bad reactions to people using the scooters, but it's probably because of the area I live in--the shoppers are particularly rude, especially in Wal-Mart. We always help whenever we see a user in need. It's good to hear that this is not a common problem.
Fortunately I don't have to use a cane or walking stick...yet. But I definitely have to use the cart in order to make it around any store we go in. I actually don't go shopping very often because of the discomfort walking such distances causes-my husband does the shopping 90% of the time. I hate it, but it's just the way it is.