What Is a Senior Discount Program?

A senior discount program is a pricing initiative designed to extend discounts or exclusive benefits to older adults. Grocery stores, restaurants, movie theaters and other companies use senior discount programs to attract shoppers and influence customer behavior. For example, a store with a sizable senior discount is likely to attract more seniors than a store with no age-based discounts.

There's no definition of "senior citizen" that applies to every store, so it's important to check program guidelines carefully. Some companies offer senior discounts starting at age 50, while others reserve their discounts for shoppers who are at least 60 or 65 years old.

Depending on the rules of the program, seniors may qualify for the following benefits:

• Fixed percentage (e.g., 10%) off every purchase
• Discounts on specific items (e.g., movie tickets, meals on a restaurant's 55+ menu)
• Early access to sales
• Free product upgrades

Signing up for these programs can help you save money every time you leave your senior community. You can use your savings to cover your monthly expenses or enjoy one of the many cultural outings coordinated by LifeStream at Glendale.

How to Apply for Senior Discount Programs

One of the easiest ways to access multiple senior discounts is to sign up for AARP. The organization focuses on the needs of adults who are 50 and older, but there's no minimum age to join. Simply fill out the online enrollment form and make your first payment. You can save even more money by signing up for a 3-year or 5-year membership.

AARP membership entitles you to discounts on restaurant meals, hotel stays, cruises and more. As a member, you can also participate in AARP Rewards, a program that allows you to earn points for completing certain activities. The points you earn are good for discounted gift cards, local deals, charitable donations and more.

To sign up for individual discount programs, follow the enrollment instructions provided by the sponsor. You may have to fill out a form, download an app on your mobile device or complete other requirements. Some programs require you to present a membership card when using your benefits, so be sure to put your card in your wallet or another safe place.

Tips for Saving Money With Senior Discounts

Signing up for senior discount programs is just one way to save money. You can maximize your savings by following a few simple tips.

1. Stack Discounts When Possible

Unless a program prohibits it, there's no reason you can't use two or more discounts at the same time. For example, your local grocery store might offer a senior discount. While you're at the store, keep an eye out for coupon machines in your favorite aisles. If you find a coupon for one of the products you're buying, you'll save twice — once with the senior discount and once with the coupon.

For example, assume you're shopping at Fry's Food Stores on the first Wednesday of the month. This is when Fry's offers a discount of 10% for shoppers 55 and older. If you find a $1 off coupon for a loaf of bread priced at $3, you'll save a total of $1.20 — $1 for the coupon and $0.20 for the senior discount.

An extra $0.20 may not seem like much, but it adds up over time. Plus, the 10% discount applies to your entire order, so you'll save more than $0.20 during your shopping trip.

2. Know the Program Rules Inside and Out

Every program has a set of rules you must follow. Make sure you know them inside and out so you can take full advantage of each discount program. For example, some restaurants offer senior discounts on a limited number of menu items. If you order something that isn't on the senior menu, you won't qualify for the discount. You may also need to present proof of age, enroll in a membership program or purchase specific brands.

3. Ask for Discounts in Person

Not all companies advertise their senior discount programs heavily, making it easy to miss out on valuable savings opportunities. Instead of waiting for a retailer to offer a discount, ask the cashier or store manager if one is available. The worst they can do is say no, but you might be pleasantly surprised by the answer.

4. Sign Up for Senior Newsletters

Some companies advertise their discount programs in newsletters aimed at seniors. To find out about as many discounts as possible, sign up for newsletters that are relevant to your interests. You can find newsletters on almost any subject, from golfing to following a plant-based diet.

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