Most farmers markets accept benefit cards like SSI now. States realize that people on social security need to eat fresh vegetables and organic foods to stay healthy. Farmers markets also have websites or social media pages where you can find out the ways to pay at the booth spaces. Or just ask where the market manager booth is and they will help you.
Farmers markets can be intimidating to attend as you get older. They are usually downtown where parking is limited, forcing you to walk farther than you might be able to. The ground is older with pot holes, cracked concrete, or pavers (former ships ballast). A lot of markets tend to be in the historic downtown areas of cities.
They can also be quite crowded with people, strollers, dogs on leashes, and street musicians or performers. Seniors also dehydrate quickly, but its not noticeable because we sweat less. A lot of seniors also have Type II diabetes and getting the snacks needed when blood sugars drop is difficult as seating is limited and lines can be long. However, markets are starting to realize that people need assistance and are working toward that. The markets that don't have a permanent home have a difficult time making adaptations as they have no control over the real estate they borrow on the weekend.
Ask for help. See if someone can take you to the market. Find out ahead of time if there are unloading areas where you can be dropped off and wait while the person who brought you parks the car. Don't be afraid to use a cane, your walker, or a wheelchair. Take breaks. Ask the person who brought you to wait in the lines to make your purchases for you. Know your body and your limits. Head back to the car before you become too tired or sore.
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