Raise your hand if you’re like me and love a discount! When I was young and went clothes shopping with my mom, we would immediately head toward the back of the store where the marked down items were located. That lesson has stuck with me and now I’m always on the lookout for a bargain.
That’s why I have no problem taking advantage of a senior discount wherever it’s available. Some people may be hesitant to use a senior discount because it alerts the world to your age, but I’m here to say – use that discount proudly – you’ve earned it!
What kinds of discounts are available to seniors?
Here are a few discounts that you may be eligible for. Minimum age requirements vary and can range from 50 – 65. Some discounts may also only be available on certain days of each week, so check with the vendor/store for details.
- Fitness discounts
- Local community centers
- Silver Sneakers – if you’re enrolled in certain Medicare plans
- Educational discounts
- Check your area college for free senior classes. Most are non-credit.
- Shopping discounts
- Clothing stores
- Grocery stores
- Entertainment
- Movies
- Museums, zoos, aquariums
- Travel
- Hotels
- Car rental
- Cruises
- Planes, trains and busses
Here’s a more comprehensive list of senior discounts.
Do grocery prices have you stressed?
There’s no doubt that prices everywhere are high and we’re spending more on daily items like groceries. Here are some ways to save on food that may give you some relief:
- Make a shopping list
- I can’t tell you how many times I’ve purchased something that I already have in the pantry. If I had made a list, I would’ve saved money by not buying something I didn’t need.
- We also shop with our eyes, and sometimes with our stomachs. We all go into the store for a few things and come out with more than we planned because it “looked good.” Using a list can keep us on track.
- Use coupons
- People still use paper coupons, but many coupons today are digital. Download the app for your favorite grocery store from the App Store or Google Play and clip digital coupons.
- Buy sale items
- Go through the weekly sale papers and plan your meals around the sales. Even if it means shopping at multiple stores to get the best bargains.
- Most grocery stores also have discount racks (just like clothing stores), check those for additional savings.
- Buy store brands or generic
- The quality of store brands is very good and can save money off name brand items.
What’s your favorite senior discount or ways to save?