COMMENT
How To Save Money If You're Over 55

Did you know there are currently over 15 million people in the UK, aged 55 or over? Older people are twice as likely to vote as younger people; no wonder politicians are realising the importance of chasing the so-called 'grey vote'!

However, many companies don't appear to feel the same – for example, many savings accounts targeted at older customers offer lower rates than their standard accounts. And when you compare the discounts available to seniors in the US (which include special discounts on flights, accommodation as well as 'Earlybird' deals when eating out) we certainly have some catching up to do.

But older people can now fight back. Websites such as Senior Concessions have been set up to search for, and make available details of the numerous discounts and concessions available to the over 55s. By taking advantage of these deals, the internet savvy can save money and stretch their incomes.

Currently listed deals for the over 55s include 20% discounts at Beefeater and 'Out and Out' restaurants, special 'Silver Screen' showings of films at Odeon cinemas for £2 (including tea/coffee), and various concessions at top London theatres.

So here are just a few of the many discounts available to older people:

1. Senior Railcard (over 60s only) – gives a third off the cost of rail travel for £20 (which, I'm reliably informed, can often even be purchased at a discount from your local library, depending on where you live).
2. Garden Centres – many garden centres, such as Wyevale, offer a 10% discount every Monday/Tuesday to the over 60s. Senior discounts are also available to visit National Trust and English Heritage properties.
3. Focus DIY offers an over 60s card – giving a 10% discount every Tuesday.
4. Golf – many golf clubs offer special rates for senior players, as do many gyms and tennis clubs
5. Pensioners in Wales and London are currently eligible for free off peak travel; the rest of the country receiving half price travel (though the scheme may well be extended to the rest of the country in the future).
6. The Association of Retired People Over 50 or ARP/050 currently offers discounts at John Lewis and Marks and Spencer amongst others (plus a range of other benefits) for the over 50s, in return for a low annual fee.
7. And remember, over 60s are entitled to free eye tests and prescriptions!

You can find out more about entitlements for the over 50s at the Age Concern website.

In addition to this, a recent study has found that older people can save money on travel insurance too, by shopping around. Here are the current Best Buy annual travel insurance policies for the Over 65s:

Annual, Europe

Annual Worldwide  

If you know of any new discounts available to the over 55s, don't forget to let Senior Concessions know so they can add it to their list. And if you're over 55, make sure you make the most of the discounts available to you!