16 Free Products and Services for Seniors (Don’t Miss Out)
Living far away from my parents because of work makes me anxious about whether they are doing okay. I often ask myself if they are eating well or have enough money to fund their needs.
You see, my parents did not save for their retirement. Thank goodness some products and services are free for seniors, which helps a lot. I also give them some money from time to time to make sure they have enough to live well.
There are so many things that are free for seniors that you shouldn’t miss out on. Whether you like to see nature, learn something new, or just like to save money, there is so much out there. Here are some of the free products and services you can get as a senior.
1. Free Medicare
If you have worked long enough and paid Medicare taxes, you would qualify for free hospital insurance when you’re 65 through Medicare Part A. This would include nursing home care and additional hospital days, but some items would require co-pays.
Medicare’s Coverage to Care initiative helps determine what is covered if you are unsure. Know what aid you can avail for your health needs.
2. Free Dental Care
Taking care of your teeth is important, but dental care can be very expensive. However, original Medicare does not cover many dental services, such as fillings and dentures, which means you have to pay out of your pocket.
Dental Lifeline provides free services to people 65 years old and low-income people who need dental help. This organization connects you with volunteer dentists who provide care free of charge. Thus, you can now maintain a healthy smile free of cost.
3. Free Education and Classes
If you want some or more education, many area colleges have free or low-cost classes for seniors 50 or older. AARP provides a list of colleges with such deals.
You can explore subjects you love or even discover new interests without spending a lot. It’s a fun way to keep your mind active and meet new people.
4. Free Tax Preparation
Many seniors can save on tax dollars but often miss these chances. Their increased standard tax deduction ensures that people over 65 usually have a lower tax bill.
AARP offers Tax-Aide, which prepares taxes free of charge for consumers who are 50 years or older. Tax-Aide simplifies the tax time process for both in-person and online help.
5. Free Books and Movies
Instead of buying books, you can go to your local library for free books, ebooks, audiobooks, and movies. Getting a library card is free in a lot of states and cities, but you need to sign up.
With your card, you can access as many books as you want, one after another. Some theaters offer free movies for seniors for a limited time. That said, make sure to check out your local theaters or watch some news or local updates regarding free movies in your area.
6. Free Coffee Rewards
If you love coffee, you can get free drinks at big coffee chains by joining their rewards programs. For example, Peet’s Coffee has Peetnik Rewards, where you can earn points for free drinks.
Starbucks Rewards and Dunkin’ Rewards have similar benefits. You just sign up for free, and soon you can enjoy some delicious coffee without spending much.
7. Free Entry to National Parks
The National Park Service manages 423 parks in the United States. A lot of national and state parks mean that you can get in for free when you’re a senior, but not all of them. For the parks that charge a fee, seniors can get a special lifetime pass for only $80 (lifetime) or $20 annually. Military veterans can enter for free.
If you enjoy nature, this is a great way to spend time outdoors without splurging big dollars. Also, state parks like New Jersey State Parks and Forests provide free admission for the elderly — ages 62 or older — which gets you more adventures closer to home.
8. Free Doctor’s Appointments
Most services are free to Medicare clients. This includes annual wellness visits, flu shots, and various screenings.
You can use these free services to keep that healthy body without paying extra. You also have prescription discount cards, which bring that medication price down for you.
9. Free Gym Memberships
The gym is not exclusive to younger people. As a senior, you can stay fit by visiting a gym for free or for a discounted membership fee through health insurance plans like Medigap and Medicare Advantage (MA).
If you qualify, programs like SilverSneakers give you access to thousands of gyms across the country. It also allows you to exercise from home with their on-demand workout videos. It’s a great way to stay fit and meet new friends while saving money.
10. Free Meals for Seniors
Many programs offer free meals to your community’s seniors. For instance, Meals on Wheels brings healthy, nutritious meals right to the doorstep of seniors and make sure they get healthy food all for free.
Some local churches and community centers also offer free meals specifically to seniors. These are great opportunities to dine out and catch up with senior friends in your neighborhood.
11. Free Phones and Internet
Some phone and internet providers offer low-income elderly free or discounted phones, internet, and computers. You can check out services like Computers with Causes, The On It Foundation, PCs for People, and Alliance for Technology Refurbishing and Reuse.
It lets you keep in contact with friends and family simultaneously and provides many other easy ways to access information, have fun, or get entertained.
12. Free Hearing Aids
Many people can’t hear as well when they grow older, and their hearing aids cost an arm and a leg. However, there are programs that offer low-cost hearing aids, which you can take advantage of as a senior.
Free hearing aids can be attained through the National Hearing Aid Project and Medicaid. After the process, you can hear better without an ounce of worry about the cost.
13. Free Public Transit
Getting around can become tricky sometimes as we age. Most big cities offer discounted metro cards to anyone above 65 years of age. Such public transport is cheaper.
Some states even offer free public transportation for seniors and people with disabilities, such as Pennsylvania. This way, you can still go to a doctor’s appointment or visit your family that doesn’t live in the same area.
14. Free Legal Assistance
Many nonprofit organizations provide free or low-cost legal services to seniors. They can help with estate planning and even explain your rights.
The core programs, such as the Legal Hotline for Seniors, make sure that you have available, free-of-charge legal advice. Therefore, you will receive all the legal help you need without worrying about the cost that comes with it.
15. Free Museum Admission
Over 200 museums and attractions are free in the United States. With that, you can enjoy your free time going into these museums and have some fun without spending a penny on admission.
Check your local listing for any of these museums in your area. It’s fun to tour when you’re appreciating art and culture while saving money.
16. Free Home Energy Audits
Many utility companies offer free energy audits to seniors. These audits educate you on how you can save your money through energy-efficient upgrades.
The service can make recommendations on how to weatherize your house so that it becomes comfortable yet cost-effective. It is a great way to reduce costs and contribute to the environment.
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