Pharmacy, retail, dining, travel, and telecom industries roll out special perks
55+ mobile plans, AARP memberships, and transit discounts help ease financial strain
As inflation continues to strain household budgets, a growing number of retailers and service providers are offering seniors exclusive discounts—programs that, if used wisely, can significantly reduce everyday expenses.
■ Pharmacy & Retail
Drugstore chain Rite Aid operates a Wellness 65+ program for customers aged 65 and older, offering free enrollment, five times the reward points on the first Wednesday of every month, 10% discounts every Tuesday, and complimentary pharmacist consultations.
Walgreens hosts a monthly Seniors Day, giving customers 55 and older a 20% discount on regular-priced items.
Goodwill thrift stores, depending on region and location, also provide discounts of 10–20% for shoppers 55 and above on designated days, while department store chain Kohl’s offers customers 60 and older a 15% discount every Wednesday.
Online giant Amazon provides discounted Prime memberships for seniors who qualify for Medicaid or other federal assistance programs.
■ Dining & Travel
The American Association of Retired Persons (AARP), with an annual membership fee of $15, extends wide-ranging benefits covering restaurants, delivery services, airlines, hotels, and rental cars.
Denny’s offers seniors aged 55 and above a special menu, and AARP members receive an additional 15% discount on their bill. Hotel chain Best Western grants guests 55 and older at least 10% off nightly rates, while AMC Theatres sells discounted tickets to customers aged 60 and above.
■ Transportation & Leisure
Bus operator Greyhound provides a 5% discount for passengers 62 and older, and Amtrak grants a 10% discount to travelers aged 65 and above.
The National Park Service also issues a lifetime Senior Pass for U.S. citizens and permanent residents aged 62 and up, available for $80.
■ Telecom & Finance
Telecom providers T-Mobile, AT&T, and Mint Mobile each offer dedicated 55+ plans with reduced rates. Verizon provides a similar plan exclusively for Florida residents.
Financial and insurance companies are also targeting seniors with products such as reduced auto insurance premiums, medical and pet insurance packages, no-interest credit card programs, and home equity products designed to support retirement living.
Experts note that seniors, a growing consumer demographic, should take full advantage of these offerings. “Older adults face unique challenges in maintaining purchasing power and stability,” said one financial analyst. “Actively using these discount programs and services can make a real difference in reducing household costs.”
