Why are Seniors Grocery Shopping Twice a Week?


Written By:

Updated: June 7, 2022

senior standing in a grocery stall

Featured Image Credit: sharonang / Pixabay

With COVID-19 currently sweeping across the globe. Many are left wondering: why are seniors grocery shopping twice a week when they’re in the highest risk bracket?

There are several reasons seniors are choosing to leave their homes during the pandemic. One is that many of them do not have smartphones, meaning they can’t utilize at-home delivery services for groceries or prescriptions. Another is they miss socializing with friends and family (as most of us do). In addition, shopping in person can be more cost-effective than ordering a delivery service. With costs associated with aging such as Life Alert costs, these savings can be significant.

Additional reasons given include:

  • Stopping by the bank
  • Going to the post office
  • Heading to work
  • Attending religious services
  • Volunteering

Seniors Are Far More Likely To Struggle with the Novel Coronavirus

COVID-19 has continued to baffle health experts across the world. One of the most curious of issues is its effect on elderly adults. For those in their 70’s compared to those in their 60’s, the mortality rate more than doubles, from 4% to 8.6%.

This number gets even scarier for those aged 80 or older, who face a staggering mortality rate of 13.4%.

But it’s not just age that raises the risk; it’s also the pre-existing conditions that many seniors struggle with. These weaken the immune system and make them more susceptible to an extreme reaction.

Many Seniors Don’t Have Smartphones

A recent report published by the Pennsylvania Department of Aging shows that nearly 20% of PA seniors don’t have access to smartphones. This severely inhibits their ability to use at-home delivery services for both groceries and prescriptions.

Rather than ordering from the comfort of their own home, seniors are venturing out to do their shopping themselves. While many retailers have designated specific “senior” hours and days, it still leaves many exposed.

This same report also shows that most seniors either live with a partner or alone. Meaning about half of the time, they’re also putting their spouse at risk.

As Do Most – They Miss Having Social Interactions

Everyone misses connecting with friends and family. But for the younger generation, they get their fill from daily texting and video calls. Seniors are less tech-savvy than those under the age of 65 and prefer interacting in person.

Rather than feeling fulfilled by sitting around watching TV shows and movies, they prefer to go out and socialize. While admirable, this sadly puts them more at risk of catching COVID-19.

The same goes for attending religious services. Nearly 60% of those aged 40 or older in the US state that religion plays a large part in their lives. While many churches have improved their social distancing guidelines, there is still an increased risk to seniors.

Regardless Of Age – Coronavirus Affects Us All

That’s the sad truth of the matter; Coronavirus has been devastating for everyone. If you’re looking for ways to give back during the pandemic, check out our previous article on how to support a senior without putting either of you at further risk.