For many seniors, entering retirement means adhering to a stricter budget. However, they may not know the most effective ways to cut costs, which can make budgeting more challenging. Here are seven areas where seniors can spend less.
1. Food
There are several ways seniors can spend less on food. First, they should look into senior discounts. While restaurants are famous for offering early bird specials, many grocery stores also offer special discounts to aging adults. Coupons are also an excellent way to spend less on the weekly grocery bill. Sunday papers are still a useful resource, but tech-savvy seniors may want to experiment with grocery store and couponing apps.
Grocery shopping can be physically taxing for a lot of seniors. Some seniors only require help with a few daily tasks so they can maintain their independence. However, those living with serious illnesses may need more extensive assistance. Luckily, there is professional live-in care Montgomery, Alabama, seniors can rely on. Home can be a safer and more comfortable place for your loved one to live with the help of an expertly trained and dedicated live-in caregiver.
2. Medications
For many seniors, health-related expenditures are a major source of worry. Seniors who spend a lot on prescriptions should shop around for their medications. Some supermarket pharmacies offer common medications for free. There may even be large price disparities among standard chain pharmacies. Seniors should do some research, then get their prescriptions filled at the pharmacy offering the best price. They can also apply for assistance programs that cover the cost of medications, such as the Partnership for Prescription Assistance.
3. Fitness
Seniors should always strive to stay active, but gym memberships can be expensive. Interested seniors should consider programs that provide free gym memberships for older adults, such as SilverSneakers. For the benefits of gym classes without the membership fees, seniors can stream fitness classes online for free or for a small fee.
Seniors who need extra help staying active may benefit from hiring a professional caregiver. Montgomery senior care experts are available to provide high-quality care to seniors on an as-needed basis. From assistance with mobility and exercise to providing transportation to the doctor’s office and social events, there are a variety of ways professional caregivers can help your aging loved one continue to live independently.
4. Utilities
Utility bills can be costly, especially during the hottest and coldest months of the year. Seniors with chimneys should seal their chimney flues—nearly 10 percent of the air generated by HVAC systems can escape through opened flues. Seniors who are still using standard incandescent light bulbs should switch to LED bulbs, which could save about $150 per year.
5. Entertainment
Seniors who love to read should skip the bookstore and head straight to the library. Most libraries offer physical and digital versions of books, movies, and more, allowing seniors to check out the media that best suits their lifestyle.
6. Gas
There are several ways seniors can cut down on their monthly gas expenditure. For example, using cruise control on the highway can reduce fuel use by nearly 10 percent. If they want to find which local gas station offers the cheapest gas, they can use apps like GasBuddy, which aggregates local gas station prices.
7. Maintaining the House
Many retired seniors spend a lot of time at home, so it’s little wonder they spend a lot of money maintaining it. However, there are plenty of ways to save money on basic home necessities. Crafty seniors can make their own laundry detergents, window cleaners, and more out of budget-friendly supplies like vinegar, water, and baking soda. Seniors who love to garden should search online for free mulch—many communities give away mulch or compost.
Money isn’t the only concern for adults who are aging. Seniors who want to remain healthy as they age can benefit in a variety of ways when they receive professional home care. Montgomery, AL, Home Care Assistance is here to help your loved one accomplish daily tasks, prevent illness, and focus on living a healthier and more fulfilling life. If your loved one needs help with the challenges of aging, call one of our compassionate Care Managers today at (334) 593-3988.