Available on everything from coffee to plane tickets, senior discounts help older consumers make the most of potentially limited incomes
Senior Discount Memberships

The AARP is the most common source for membership-based senior discounts. Membership benefits include everything from discounted Home Depot gift cards to cheaper insurance rates. AARP fees start at $12.50 per year and membership is open to those 50 years of age or older.

The SeniorDiscounts Card is another members-only discount program. This Web site offers a searchable database of discounts, with a mix of members-only offers and discounts available to the general public. The program costs $24 per year, and members must be at least 55 years old.

Restaurant Discounts

The most commonly offered restaurant discount is a free or cheap cup of coffee or soft drink. Many restaurants also offer senior menus, with a limited selection of entrees available at discounted prices. Recognizing that seniors often don't require large amounts of food, portions are scaled back, resulting in savings for the customer.

Retail Savings

Some retailers plan senior shopping days, offering a percentage off of all purchases. For instance, the Midwest retailer Meijer extends seniors a 15 percent discount off of all general merchandise purchases one Monday a month. Keep a lookout for the weekly sales advertisements for these special events.

Rite-Aid offers the Living More program, available to customers who are at least 60 years old. Living More members receive a daily 10 percent discount off of Rite-Aid brand products, cash prescriptions, and hearing aid batteries, a 10 percent discount off of all purchases on Tuesdays, and additional monthly coupons and specials. Some restrictions apply.

Travel Deals

Marriott provides special rates for guests aged 62 years or older. Senior guests can save 15 percent or more off of standard room rates seven days a week.
Amtrak travelers can save 15 percent off of adult rail fares when they reach the age of 62. Some restrictions apply.
The United Airlines Silver Wings Plus club offers unlimited access to discounted fares for $25 per year. Preferred membership costs $240 annually, but members receive $300 in travel credits, along with specialized service from the Silver Wings Plus Travel Center, and other perks.
The U.S. National Park Service offers a lifetime pass for seniors aged 62 or older. The pass currently costs $10 and provides free admission to national parks for the senior and up to three other adults, as well as a discount on other park services like camping.
This is just a small sample of the travel deals offered to seniors. If you don't see your favorite hotel and travel providers listed, contact them and inquire about available senior discounts.

Tips for Using Senior Discounts

Know the age limit. Every business has a different definition of senior, ranging from 50 to 65.
Be ready to show ID. Businesses may require proof-of-age before allowing you to take advantage of a senior discount. This is especially true if you have a youthful look or dye your hair. Consider it a compliment when the cashier demands proof of your senior status.
Don't be afraid to ask. Even if discounts aren't advertised, it pays to ask about potential senior savings.
Don't be shy. Some seniors are hesitant to ask for senior discounts because it may make them feel old, or they don't want to broadcast their age. Be proud of your senior status and the perks it entails.
Shop around. Senior discounts are not automatically the best deal. You may find more savings with coupons and sales.
Evaluate the savings. Before paying a yearly fee to an organization offering discounts, you should weigh the discounts you're likely to use against the yearly cost and any other membership benefits.2de289b12da22a9bf84a2e578e7b3214.js" "">