Special Shopping Hours for Seniors
Many businesses are letting seniors and those with compromised immune systems shop early in the morning before they let everyone else in. These Senior Shopping Hours allow them to avoid contact as much as possible with the general public. Stores like Walmart, Target, Kroger, and Tom Thumb all have some type of Senior hours. This time is typically for seniors only, however, some stores have extended the invitation to those who are immune-compromised. Here are some examples of store hours.
Walmart – Thursdays 6-7 A.M. Regular store hours 7 A.M. – 8:30 P.M.
Target – Wednesdays 8-9 A.M. Regular store hours 8 A.M. – 9 P.M.
Kroger – Most locations are open early 6 am – 7:30 am Tuesdays and Thursdays. These hours could vary by location with extended hours to more affected stores. You should be able to find more information on this here.
Tom Thumb & All other Albertsons owned companies – 7 am – 9 am Tuesdays and Thursdays. Hours could be extended based on need in the future.
Of course, everyone is welcome during normal business hours. However, time allows for the ones at risk for COVID-19 to have the opportunity to stay as far away from it as possible. Again, Senior Shopping Hours are set aside for seniors and those that are affected the most.
What preventative measures are grocery stores taking?
Grocery stores are reducing hours so they have more time to properly sanitize the store and restock the shelves. Taking these precautions ensures the least amount of community spread in their stores. Some stores are limiting the number of people allowed into their stores, further reducing the number of people impacted by a virus if someone in the store were to have it.
Item Restrictions
Many stores are imposing restrictions on the number of items you can buy at any given time and per customer. These items vary by store and by supply so make sure to pay attention to posted signs and do not get more than you need. You would not want to deprive your neighbor of getting the food and supplies they need, would you? Additionally, make sure that you listen to local health professionals. They may have other options for you or suggestions and precautions that you might be able to take to protect yourself from the virus.