Folsom grocery announces seniors-only shopping hour
By Mike Scott, mscott@sths.org
Senior citizens in Folsom who want to reduce their risk of exposure to the COVID-19 coronavirus while doing their shopping are in luck. Main’s Market on Louisiana 25 has announced a seniors-only shopping hour from 6:30 to 7:30 a.m. starting today (March 17), NOLA.com is reporting.
At least one local medical professional is a fan of the idea.
“I think it’s a great idea,” said Dr. Chris Foret of St. Tammany Health System’s Folsom family medical clinic. “It’s a great example of somebody in the community taking the initiative to help halt this virus.”
Senior citizens are particularly vulnerable to COVID-19, statistics show, as are people with underlying health conditions.
While Foret said local seniors shouldn’t panic in the face of the outbreak, he added that everybody should take seriously the advice of government leaders and healthcare professionals trying to stem its spread.
Among the things for shoppers to keep in mind, he said:
- Make a list before heading to the grocery to reduce the amount of time you’re in public.
- Use a disinfectant wipe to clean the handle of your grocery cart before shopping.
- Don’t overstock. Make sure you have two weeks of food and other supplies on hand, then replenish it weekly.
- Maintain a distance of 6 feet from others.
- Wash your hands thoroughly upon returning home.
- Don’t socialize or linger in the store any longer than absolutely necessary.
“Number one: Be calm,” Foret said. “But then get what you need to get and go home.”
The idea of setting aside a shopping hour for seniors concerned about coronavirus was reportedly pitched to Main’s Market owner Carlton Main by Folsom Mayor Lance Willie. Main jumped on the idea.
Foret isn’t the concept’s only fan. After the village of Folsom posted news of the arrangement to the store’s Facebook page, more than 100 people had commented on it within hours, many simply to express gratitude for the gesture.
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