i hardly go into stores to shop. if i do i use the cart and take a folding cane.
i started out using a cane. then i got a rollator (a walker with a seat). that's been very helpful because if i get too tired i can sit a few minutes and then con't.

i also have a van with a lift in the back and have a scooter. if i really want to go shopping i do use the scooter. i've found that if you smile at people and communicate your needs they do the same.

i don't bother with people that aren't friendly. it's not me, it's them.
when i first got my handicapped sticker i put off using it. but then i had to and i havn't looked back.

you find that using aids to save energy is what it's all about. saving energy lets you do other things that are more important. you just get used to it. and so do your friends and family.

Sometimes wheelchairs make you more approachable to some people. They may feel you are less likely to reject them. Children always stare, I like kids (Taught and have my own) and most know it and know they can ask my anything. And what parent can resist anyone liking their kid? Went to a neighborhood block sale event, my zooming (Thanks Marc, Wheelchair Kamikaze) and feckless driving got noticed and commented on. Sometimes you gotta make your own party.

Feckless driving - Doesn't everyone think they're an excellent driver?

Kids have a 6th sense about people that way. There used to be a man in a wc with a service dog who was always at the local mall. My kids - all the kids I suspect - were curious. Mine were too shy to go ask anything, so I did for them. The man was very friendly and open, and after that, the kids would wave and say hello when we'd see him.

Once they know what the deal is, it's no big deal.

A couple yrs back I met a woman with a service dog so I asked her a few things about him - I thought he was her dog. But she was just training him. she was surprised I thought she looked like she needed a dog....

I said no, but you never can tell.