I was a retail manager for 6 years while I finished grad school and post doc work. It was eye opening for me.

Many, many of the elderly people who came to the store were there almost every day, and were there just for the human interaction.

It genuinely made me sad that there wasn't a better outlet, or an outlet that wasn't based on the consumption of nonsense goods.

Even if there were a local place or activity for socializing, going to a retail store during the day is a good move. Clerks won't have many people competing for their attention and the clerk-customer roles make it easy to break the ice. The clerk will realize this isn't a sales discussion but is probably happy to shoot the breeze, anyway. Shopping at a store gives a very nice framework for casual conversation.

When I skipped school in the 80s, I'd get to the mall before it opened for business and watch as they opened the doors early for "mall walkers" -- old people who were there for exercise sheltered from the Florida heat and humidity.

Worked retail (managed eyeglass lab) to pay for my eng deg. Can confirm. There were a few regulars I grew fond of.

We're they spending a lot on junk?

It's fair to have a small "fee" for hosting. And if they are buying food things and then giving them away, that's two social interactions!

Maybe grocery stores should start social events and advertise them to regular customers.

That's my father since he retired. He does wood working as a hobby, but he will use any excuse to go to the hardware store. I don't know his actual frequency, but I wouldn't be surprised if he is there 4-5 times a week, with or without a project lined up.

Grab a Coke, walk around Home Depot... I do enjoy!

You don't seem to understand how much I need those biscuits. And I need them now!