In January, I’m leveling up to 55.
So why am I writing about it now?
Because 55 is that magic age when doors open to you that have previously been closed.
When aging suddenly becomes a benefit rather than something to be avoided.
Not that I’m avoiding my age. I feel pretty good for 54, and with the exception of some aches, pains, and issues that I’ve learned to live with, I can see myself going another 40 or 50 years.
But let’s talk about the splendor that is 55.
Why?
The discounts, friends. The discounts.
And because many of my readers are people that are my age, I figured maybe we could discuss some of the businesses, restaurants, and companies that reward us for making it to 55, whether we did it relatively unscathed or scathed as hell.
I don’t frequent Walgreens, simply because I was always a CVS girl, But at 55, Walgreens has a Monthly Senior Day (why not weekly, Walgreens?) and online discounts of up to 20%. I can be persuaded, at least once a month, to get my commercial pharmacy shopping fix at Walgreens next year.
I plan on being super crafty in my old age, and it just so happens that Michael’s offers 10% off your entire order (including some sale items) once you turn 55. Their website mentions that it is pending “age verification,” but I’m always okay with someone asking to see my ID for proof of age. I pretend that they think I’m in my 20’s and it’s a lovely ego boost for the day.
There are also some restaurants which offer senior menu items and discounts, and I love food, so this is excellent info for me. However, many chains are owned by independent operators, so you have to ask if they have a senior discount. Some Dunkin’s offer a senior discount, and if that’s the case for any of my local Dunkin’ locations, I am about to gain some serious weight because a berry acai refresher with no ice and a warmed cheddar bagel twist I something I could eat every day without batting an eye.
The one I’m most excited about is IHOP, because breakfast all day long is my idea of heaven. And I don’t want to hear that IHOP breakfast is processed. If I made it to 55, I’m eating what I want, when I want.
I’ve been a member of AARP for 4 years now, and I understand that they have a bunch of discounts, but I have yet to find any that I would be interested in using. Although, to be fair, I’m not really sure how it works. Do I just flash the card like it’s a PBA card and I’m trying to get out of a ticket? (Which is something I’d NEVER do, nor never have the opportunity to do because speed limits are the LAW).
As a Jersey girl, I’ve recently found out that most NJ diners are generous with the senior discounts. You just need to ask ahead of time, or even give a call before you go so you know what you are walking into. Some offer 5% and some go up to 20%, but savings is savings, and NJ diner food is incomparable. Burger King and Dairy Queen are other locations that are franchise specific with their senior discount, but it’s worth the ask!
ShopRite is another place that is hit or miss with the senior discounts. Some locations run senior discount days, but they’re store-specific. The West Orange location offers a weekly senior discount program, but not all of them do. It’s worth asking customer service at your regular store whether they have a similar program, because we all gotta grocery shop, right? And maybe there is a ShopRite that is just a little out of the way but offers a good discount and you can switch. (If gas prices ever come down…amiright?)
I love the movies, and AMC is our local theater and where I have a rewards card, but the matinee prices are the same as senior prices, so I’d come out even on that one. And honestly, who can stay away for an 8:00 pm movie anyway? I’ve been in my jammies for an hour at that point and am starting to play the “I’m just resting my eyes” game with Real Man.
Guys, even Goodwill offers a senior discount. You have to prove your age, but then they do have senior discount days, starting at 55, if you qualify. I love me some Goodwill and Goodwill with a discount? Yes, please. I’m currently on the hunt for a sewing case, but that’s a post for another day.
So, starting in January, I’m going to have to put on my big girl pants and start asking the tough questions, like “Excuse me? Do you offer a senior discount?” Because most places aren’t going to tell you outright that they offer senior discounts, but if you ask, the money is yours for the taking!
I hope this helps. I think it falls off of the radar of many people because we don’t FEEL old enough to get a senior discount, so we don’t think about asking. But we’ve earned it, friends! And if you are one of my friends who has already crossed the bridge into the magical world of 55, please comment on this post and let me know something I’ve missed! I need to be PREPARED! Obviously I was just thinking of the places that I like to go. Bonus points if you can verify a bookstore that offers a senior discount. THAT would be the promised land.
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