Finding Discounts for Seniors

As seniors transition into retirement, stretching a fixed income becomes increasingly important. One of the advantages of aging is the availability of various discounts tailored specifically for those aged 50 and older. From dining out and travel to shopping and healthcare, seniors can take advantage of numerous discounts to make their golden years more affordable. This article will guide you through the key areas where seniors can find discounts and how to maximize these opportunities.

Jump to: Retail Discounts · Dining Discounts · Travel Discounts · Healthcare Discounts · Utility and Communication Discounts · Entertainment Discounts

Retail Discounts

Many retailers offer senior discounts, typically ranging from 10% to 20% off regular prices. Some stores have designated "senior days," where discounts apply only on certain days of the week. Here are some examples:

Kohl's: Offers 15% off on Wednesdays for those aged 60 and older.
Ross Stores: Provides 10% off every Tuesday for seniors 55 and older.
Walgreens: Offers 20% off select items on the first Tuesday of every month for myWalgreens members aged 55 or older.

To make the most of these discounts, seniors should:

Inquire at checkout: Even if a store doesn’t advertise a senior discount, it's always worth asking at checkout.
Join loyalty programs: Many stores offer additional discounts through their loyalty programs, which can often be combined with senior discounts.

Dining Discounts

Dining out can become more affordable with senior discounts available at a variety of restaurants. Discounts typically range from 5% to 15%, and some establishments offer special senior menus with smaller portions at reduced prices. Examples include:

IHOP: Offers a 10% discount for seniors, plus special deals on its 55+ menu.
Denny's: Provides discounts for AARP members and features a special senior menu.
Golden Corral: Offers discounted buffet prices for seniors.

To maximize dining discounts:

Join AARP: Many restaurants partner with AARP to offer exclusive discounts for members.
Check local restaurants: Many independently owned restaurants offer senior discounts but may not advertise them online. Call ahead or ask in person.

Travel Discounts

Traveling is a popular activity for retirees, and senior discounts can make it more affordable. Many airlines, hotels, and car rental companies offer senior rates. Examples include:

Amtrak: Offers a 10% discount for travelers aged 65 and older.
Marriott Hotels: Provides senior discounts at participating hotels for guests 62 and older; the discount varies by hotel, so check Marriott.com.
Avis Car Rental: Offers discounts on base rates to AARP members; see AARP's car rental benefits page for current terms.

To find travel discounts:

Use senior travel websites: Websites like SeniorTravelDiscounts.com compile travel deals and discounts for seniors.
Book directly: When booking flights or accommodations, always ask about senior rates.

Healthcare Discounts

Healthcare costs are a significant concern for seniors, but discounts are available on prescriptions, medical supplies, and more. Here are some ways to save:

GoodRx: Offers discounts on prescription medications, often at lower prices than insurance copays.
Costco: Provides discounts on eyeglasses and hearing aids for members, including additional savings for seniors.
AARP Prescription Discounts: AARP offers savings on prescription drugs through the AARP Prescription Discounts program, provided by Optum Rx and usable at Walgreens and other participating pharmacies.

To save on healthcare:

Compare prices: Use comparison tools like GoodRx to find the best prices on medications.
Look for free screenings: Many pharmacies and health clinics offer free screenings for conditions like diabetes, blood pressure, and cholesterol levels, which can help reduce medical expenses.

Utility and Communication Discounts

Some utility companies offer senior discounts or special payment plans for those on fixed incomes. Additionally, seniors can save on phone and internet services through various programs:

Lifeline Assistance Program: Provides discounts on phone and internet services for eligible low-income individuals, including many seniors.
AT&T 55+ Plan: Offers a discounted wireless plan when the account owner is at least 55 years old and the household also has AT&T Fiber or AT&T Internet Air service.
Comcast Internet Essentials: Provides discounted internet service for households that qualify by income or by participating in assistance programs; some seniors qualify, for example through SSI or a VA pension.

To find these discounts:

Contact service providers: Inquire directly with your utility or communication providers about senior discounts or special programs.
Check eligibility: Ensure that you meet the eligibility requirements for programs like Lifeline Assistance.

Entertainment Discounts

Entertainment and leisure activities also come with senior discounts. From movies and museums to national parks and theme parks, there are many ways to save:

Regal Cinemas: Offers a reduced-price senior ticket for guests aged 60 and older; prices vary by theater.
National Park Service: Seniors aged 62 and older can purchase the America the Beautiful Senior Pass, an annual or lifetime pass for U.S. citizens and permanent residents that covers entry to more than 2,000 federal recreation sites; see the NPS passes page for current prices.
AMC Theatres: Offers discounted movie tickets for seniors on certain days of the week.

To take advantage of these discounts:

Research ahead: Check websites for entertainment venues to see if senior discounts are available.
Purchase memberships: Memberships to museums or parks often come with senior rates, offering additional savings throughout the year.

Conclusion

Finding and taking advantage of senior discounts requires some effort, but the savings can be substantial. Whether shopping, dining, traveling, or staying healthy, seniors should explore all the opportunities available to reduce costs. Always ask about senior discounts when making purchases, and consider joining organizations like AARP, which offer a wide range of discounts. With a little planning, seniors can make the most of their retirement budget and enjoy more of life’s pleasures for less.