Great Stuff Free for Seniors (or Nearly Free)
Aging in place helps seniors retain their freedom to enjoy the life they have earned. According to a recent study, most senior adults prefer to say in and remain a vital part of their community. However, reduced and fixed income can limit access to needed resources and put a damper on the fun. Fortunately, there are more ways than ever to stretch the budget with free or reduced-cost goods and services available to the senior community. Take a look at the following great stuff free for seniors (or nearly free).
Free Benefits Counseling
The best place to start uncovering incredible discounts is by availing yourself of free benefits counseling through your local Area Agency on Aging (AAA). The AAA benefit counselors can help you discover the assistance that could be available to you in insurance, income, food, minor home repair, and more at the local, state, and federal levels.
Free Food
Every state has some form of the Supplemental Nutritional Assistance Program (SNAP). Requirements vary by state but applying online is fast and easy. In addition to SNAP, most communities have food banks that provide food to anyone in need. Senior centers also often have free or low-cost meals available. Another wonderful option is Meals on Wheels which operates in nearly every community delivering nutritious meals (and a warm smile) to seniors all over the nation.
Free Mobility Aids
Many hospitals and long-term care facilities have walkers and other mobility aids available for free. In most cases, a simple call and inquiry is all it takes to be connected to free mobility aids.
Free and Low-Cost Phone Service
Available through various phone providers and the Universal Service Administrative Company (USAC), the Lifeline Program offers free cell and landline services to those meeting income criteria. Most cell phone service providers also offer discounts to seniors, so be sure to ask!
Free Eyeglasses
If you need glasses, contact the local Lions Club. This organization dedicates itself to community service with a focus on providing free glasses and eye care.
Free Education
After paying for the kids to go to school, it's about time you get to pursue some of your interests and access free education! Residents age 60 or older can take at least three credits per semester at any state-supported school in Massachusetts and receive free tuition. Like to learn online? Check out free online courses through MOOCs, or Massive Open Online Courses, offered through many prestigious institutions.
National Parks Low-Cost Entry
You've been thinking about doing it for years, and here's your chance. Visit National Parks, National Wildlife Refuges, National Forests, and other federal recreation lands with a low-cost lifetime membership. While the annual pass is $20 per person, the lifetime membership is $80 (plus a $10 handling fee) and gets you and anyone in your car into any National Park as many times as you like. This pass is only available to those 62 and up. Lace-up those boots and go explore!
Ways to Save as a Senior
With age comes wisdom, and one of the wisest things we can do is save money where we can and invest in things that bring us joy. Save wisely and take advantage of great stuff free for seniors!
"Do not save what is left after spending, but spend what is left after saving" – Warren Buffett.
Senior Helpers
Recognized for professionalism and compassion in senior home care, Senior Helpers is dedicated to providing a wide range of versatile options in quality in-home care services. Senior Helpers serves Des Plaines, Elmhurst, Oak Brook, and the surrounding areas. For more information about Senior Helpers or our services, please contact us today!