Make the Most of Senior Discounts

Growing older has often been associated with a host of negative implications, but who wants to read about that kind of negativity? Growing older also means a wealth of perks and benefits, and this is the place to discover what you might be missing. If you enjoy saving a bit of money, then keep reading. This could have exciting potential written all over it.

I am 55; my husband just turned 60. As I write these words, I can scarcely believe it, as I still feel (and often act!) like someone half my age, and that is fine with me. However, when I was 30-something, I was not able to access some of these amazing discounts for (gulp, do I say it?) seniors. For our entire marriage, my husband and I have split a meal when dining out, mainly to keep our waistlines from expanding, but also to keep the bill to a minimum. However, now that we have reached “that age,” there is hope in sight for a full meal for each of us.

Numerous organizations offer appreciable discounts to individuals who come in to use their services if those folks are over a certain age. If you take advantage of these discounts, you can extend your retirement income even further and perhaps even enjoy a higher quality of life in the process.

What exactly are senior discounts? These are essentially used by businesses to attract the older demographic, as businesses understand those in the older population do not always have the same flexible spending options as their younger counterparts. As a result, many businesses offer a discount or small savings for using their goods and services. These discounts vary greatly and there is no legal requirement for any location to offer them. However, many businesses and organizations don’t openly advertise them, either, so you have to do a bit of investigative research on your own. You can simply ask about them whenever you visit an establishment. That question alone can save you a few dollars.

As for what age you need to be in order to reap the benefits of these discounts, that can vary. Most establishments will determine this requirement on their own. There is no set definition of when a senior is actually qualified. Nevertheless, many businesses do have a policy, and you can inquire to see if that applies to you. Many restaurants offer dining discounts for folks over the age of 55. Some retailers may offer discounts to those over 60. Again, the key to finding out how you might benefit is to simply inquire within.

While you can find a wealth of information on the internet about senior discounts, one of the most prominent sites is the 2019 List of Senior Discounts. The list is quite extensive and is always in the process of being updated. The site showcases a variety of discounts from dining options to adventures in travel, as well as ways to find discounts on medications. You can enjoy discounts at some of your favorite dining spots, from the fast food kind of Fazoli’s and Subway to lunchtime fare at Sweet Tomatoes and Souplantation to a nice dinner at the Outback Steakhouse and McCormick &Schmick’s.

If travel and adventure are on your bucket list, don’t let your budget get in the way of those plans. You can find senior discounts on airlines tickets, car rentals, hotels and you’ll even find ways to save money on food while traveling. If you enjoy traveling by rail or by sea, there are a variety of discounts available. And once you arrive at your destination, you may even find discounts at some of your favorite national parks, some offering a lifetime pass for seniors.

You don’t have to let your wardrobe stagnate, either. The Senior List identifies a variety of retail and apparel stores that offer discounts, from sporting goods stores to department stores and even some thrift stores.

What about your prescription mediations? We all know how costly those can be, especially if you are on a fixed income. Medicare may alleviate some of the burden, but why not continue to lighten the financial load? According to the current Senior List, older adults can enjoy discounts on prescription drugs through AARP, which has acceptance of 66,000 pharmacies across the country, Rite Aid, Costco and CVS Pharmacy.

Please be advised that some discounts can vary by location and some may only apply to individual franchise owners. Again, the easiest way to find out is just to ask. I understand, however; sometimes asking makes you feel “old,” but saving a few dollars shouldn’t get in the way of your ego! Just imagine all the money you are going to save over time. ■

Sources: seniorliving.org and theseniorlist.com.