When the novel coronavirus first began impacting Americans in early March, supermarkets had to quickly adapt to meet demands and implement policies for safe shopping. Many stores—Costco included—introduced "senior hours" or a designated hour where those at high-risk for infection, specifically those aged 60 or older, could shop in a less crowded environment. Although Costco has had special operating hours over the past few months, they are now changing their policy, despite coronavirus cases continuing to rise across the country.
Related: 6 Tips to Avoid Crowds at the Grocery Store
Starting the week of July 13th, Costco's special operating hours will be cut back to two days a week from its initial five-day policy. The special operating hour will remain from 9 to 10 a.m. but will only be applicable on Tuesdays and Thursdays for those aged 60 or older, those with disabilities and those who are immunocompromised (some warehouses are operating on a different schedule and you can see all exceptions here).
Costco gives no reasoning for this change on their website and despite calls to local warehouses and the corporate offices, no one could provide details. Given the growing state of COVID-19 in our country, it's unfortunate that those at high-risk will have their shopping hours reduced. Thankfully, Costco is still requiring customers to wear a mask and follow social distancing while in stores.
As many companies look to return to their pre-coronavirus operations, it's important to follow the recommendations of the CDC and your local governments whenever you go out. Simple acts of kindness, like wearing a mask and washing your hands, are easy ways to protect the health of yourself and others during this time.
Related: How to Spread Out Grocery Store Trips to Save Time and Money
The information in this story is accurate as of press time. However, as the situation surrounding COVID-19 continues to evolve, it's possible that some data have changed since publication. While EatingWell is trying to keep our stories as up-to-date as possible, we also encourage readers to stay informed on news and recommendations for their own communities by using the CDC , WHO and their local public health department as resources.
This story originally appeared on EatingWell.
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