Top Discounts for the Benefit of Senior Citizens
Everyone naturally looks for discounts to save money on products, services, and other items. One advantage of getting older is the abundance of programs and options available to those aged 55 and up. Senior discounts are benefits or lower prices reserved for people over a certain age. These discounts range from reduced holiday pricing to offers on local transportation bills and help to save money. Here is a list of the best senior discounts.
Best senior discounts to know about
Entertainment discount
Seniors have plenty of free time after retirement to engage in creative and enjoyable activities. But, these can often be priced at premium rates. Luckily, discounts for seniors at entertainment venues can help them a lot. Seniors can get great deals at movie theaters, plays, and performances. One can also find the nearest amusement park and get a discounted park admission fee. There are also senior-friendly packages at scientific centers, art exhibits, and concerts. Here are a few common discounts to check out:
Those over 60 can purchase tickets at a reduced price at AMC Theaters.
Seniors 62 and above can purchase tickets at reduced prices at Cinemark.
Those over 62 can expect senior discounts at Landmark Theaters, while specific locations may offer different rates.
Travel discounts
One of the most fun things about retirement is the free time to travel and explore new places. Several transportation companies provide discounted rates for trip expenses. While making travel plans, look for locations that offer seniors discounts for lodging and other requirements. Many hotel chains offer senior discounts. Depending on the type of vacation booked, discounts on vehicle rentals, cruises, and national parks may also be available. Inquire with airlines about senior discounts before making a purchase, in addition to the miles you can earn through credit card use. A few discounts on airlines are:
British Airways offers AARP members discounts on flights ranging from $65 to $200.
JetBlue offers a 5% discount to retired service members and veterans who are members of Veterans Advantage.
Passengers 65 and older can purchase tickets to certain United Airlines destinations at a reduced rate.
Healthcare discounts
Another benefit for seniors is the possibility of lower healthcare and service costs. When people get older, additional retirement benefits become available to them. Seniors are frequently given special access to wellness programs from various providers, which will assist them in maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Examine your healthcare and hospital bills to see where to get additional discounts to save money. Always ask the pharmacist for applicable discounts when purchasing expensive treatments.
Here are a few examples of common healthcare discounts:
AARP offers members and nonmembers discounts on FDA-approved prescriptions not covered by insurance.
Lens Crafters offers vision aid-related discounts to AARP members.
Rite Aid’s wellness 65+ program for seniors offers 20% off purchases on the first Wednesday of every month.
Transportation and cruise discount
Seniors can also take advantage of discount perks from local travel agencies or services offering drop-off and pick-up services. Numerous businesses throughout the country provide older people with rides to the grocery store, hospitals, and other locations. Some national ridesharing services, such as Uber, provide useful options and rates to help seniors get around town. One can also take advantage of several cruises that offer special discounts to elderly passengers and rooms on board with adult-friendly meals, bedding, and other amenities. Here are some cruise offers that are currently available for travel:
Carnival offers senior discounts on cruises, with specific costs varying depending on sailing dates and locations.
Grand European Travel offers AARP members a $100 per person discount on river cruises.
Royal Caribbean also offers discounted rates on several voyages for passengers 55 and older.
Grocery discounts
Senior discounts at supermarkets are frequently location-specific and may be valid only on specific days. Check with your local branch for information on local senior discounts. Restaurants also offer popular discounts, such as buy one entrée, get one free, percentage discounts, or free dessert with an entrée. Before going to a restaurant, check the menu to see if there is a section for seniors. This list may contain excellent, nutritious meals at a low cost. Here are some examples of typical supermarket discounts:
Every month on the first Tuesday, people 55 and older receive 10% off select items at Fred Meyer.
On Thursdays, Harris Teeter offers a 5% discount to people aged 60 and up.
New Seasons offers 10% off select items to seniors 65 and older on Wednesdays.
Hy-Vee offers 10% off select items to seniors 55 and older or offers a 10% discount on the total bill to seniors. (Varies according to store location)
Car rentals
Renting a vehicle is an excellent way to travel independently and enjoy a memorable road trip in retirement. Many rental companies offer discounts to senior citizens. The following are a few of the best senior citizen rental discounts:
Avis offers AARP members a 30% discount on base prices.
Sixt offers a 5% discount to seniors over the age of 50.
Thrifty offers a 5% time and mileage discount to people over 50.
At certain locations, Hertz offers discounts of up to 20% to travelers aged 50 and up.
Cell phone discounts
Everyone requires a phone, but seniors require their phones more than anyone else to stay connected and accessible in an emergency. Look for retirement programs that meet the needs of seniors and offer discounts especially for those who are 60 and over. One must check that the plan’s specifics correspond to their lifestyle too. Consider the following senior phone discounts:
AT&T provides AARP members with a senior Unlimited 55+ plan and savings.
Consumer Cellular offers AARP members a 5% discount on monthly charges.
T-Mobile offers several 55+ plans for seniors.
Verizon also offers special promotions to customers 55 and older.