Supermarkets Offer Special Hours for Older Shoppers
Some grocery store chains across the U.S. are beginning to offer special shopping hours dedicated to older adults who are among the most vulnerable to severe complications fromCOVID-19. As the practice of social distancing becomes the norm, the special hours at supermarkets can furtherlimit coronavirus exposurefor older shoppers who choose to venture out, as well as for shoppers with underlying health conditions that put them more at risk of infection.
Costco: Tuesdays and Thursdays, from 8 to 9 a.m., are designated for shoppers 60 and older.
Dollar General: The first hour of operations is dedicated to “senior” customers. Although a specific age was not specified, the company said the period is for shoppers most vulnerable to COVID-19. Stores will also close an hour early to allow employees to clean and restock shelves. Store hours vary by location.
Gelson's: From 7 to 8 a.m., those who are 65 and older are permitted to shop. ID may be required.
Kroger:Some Krogers have adjusted their hours of operation to include senior times. Check your local store for availability.
Smart & Final: Stores are opening 30 minutes early, from 7:30 to 8 a.m., to accommodate consumers 65 and older, those with disabilities and pregnant women. ID may be requested.
Stater Bros.:Markets will open from 7 to 8 a.m. for people 65 and over.
Target: The first hour of shopping at stores each Wednesday is dedicated to older adults and those with underlying health concerns. Opening hours vary by location.
Trader Joe’s: Every day, between 9 and 10 a.m., employees will maintain an additional line outside the front door for seniors. This will “ensure that those customers in need will have an expedited entrance to the store.”
Vallarta Supermarkets: All stores will open from 7 to 8 a.m. for shoppers who are 65 or older, pregnant or disabled.
Walgreens: Starting March 24, every Tuesday is seniors day, with all-day discounts and senior-only shopping from 8 to 9 a.m. The hour is also designated for caregivers and immediate families. Discounts include 30 percent off Walgreen brands and 20 percent off national brands for those 55 and older.
Walmart: Beginning March 24 through April 28, on Tuesdays, shoppers 60 and older can shop one hour before the store open. Its pharmacies and vision centers will also be open. Store hours are 7 a.m. to 8:30 p.m.
Whole Foods: Shoppers who are 60 and older can shop at stores for one hour before the store opens to the general public. Store hours vary by location. So if a store is scheduled to open to the general public at 9 a.m., for example, older shoppers can shop 8-9 a.m.
Get the complete list from AARP HERE