REVERE, Mass. (WBZ NewsRadio) — Older shoppers are getting their own hours to keep them safe while shopping during the coronavirus pandemic.
On Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays, from 5:30-7 a.m., Market Basket is open to senior shoppers only.
Josephine, of Malden, came early to Market Basket in Revere on Squire Road to stock up.
"I have a husband that is 83 years old and I'm a senior," Josephine told WBZ NewsRadio's Shari Small. "I'm looking and the whole scenario, I have to be honest, you do have to take precaution."
"This is wonderful for the elderly, young-at-heart I like to say, to come out and do their shopping," Josephine said. "I appreciate this immensely for me."
Older adults are at higher risk for severe illness and becoming very sick from COVID-19, according to the CDC.
Ellen, of Malden, said there were about 200 shoppers in the store when she went during the select hours.
"Nobody was pushing and shoving, everybody respected everybody's distance," Ellen said. "It was a great idea."
Although some found this to be a positive experience, Stop & Stop had a few issues with congestion. There was only one cashier, and the line extended to the back of the store, WBZ NewsRadio's Laurie Kirby reported from Norwell.
A Korean war veteran who spoke to Kirby said that he felt it defeated the purpose of the sectioned off hours somewhat, by not reducing exposure to others.
WBZ NewsRadio's Shari Small (@ShariSmallNews) reports
Follow WBZ NewsRadio: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | iHeartmedia App
(Shari Small/WBZ NewsRadio)