Slow checkout lanes for elderly shoppers should be introduced in supermarkets, a report says.

The dedicated lanes would give older customers the chance to talk when they are out shopping, researchers suggest.

Stores are also being encouraged to consider special offers specifically targeted at the elderly, shopping buddy schemes and other incentives for pensioners to visit at quieter times of the week.

The University of Hertfordshire report states: "Slower checkout lanes for older people would improve the shopping experience for those who enjoy the social aspect of shopping.

"Shopping online could contribute to a greater feeling of isolation and older people becoming less involved in food provisioning."

Older people "stressed how much they valued the opportunity for social interaction that comes with a trip to the supermarket or local shops."

The study, funded by the Food Standards Agency and the Economic and Social Research Council, has also found some elderly shoppers feel "disenfranchised" by special offers that only apply to higher spenders, and buy-one-get-one-free deals aimed at families buying in bulk.

What do you think? Would slow lanes for OAPs be a good move? Add your comments below.