At this time of year, with the expense of Christmas coming up, heating bill concerns and the continuing cost of living crisis, we are all looking to make savings. Older people can be among the hardest hit but, to bring some seasonal cheer to the winter gloom, they are reminded there are a number of freebies and discounts around which are available to the over-60s.
These range from free healthcare and discounted travel to cheaper hotel stays and days out, as The Express reports. Here is a list of some of the offers available for over-60s and the first options listed are free.
The Government has previously confirmed that everyone aged 60 and over will receive free prescriptions. This will come as a relief following former considerations to raise the eligibility to State Pension age.
Free NHS sight tests are also available when someone turns 60. Several major opticians, including Specsavers and Boots, offer free tests and vouchers for glasses.
Over 60s are entitled to a number of travel perks. Discounts are available on the following:
All over-60s can save one-third on rail fares across the UK and a 10% discount on travel in Europe. (In Wales, Scotland, Northern Ireland and London, people also receive a free bus pass after reaching 60).
Over-60s are also entitled to a National Express senior coachcard, which means one-third off the price of standard and full flexible tickets. And vehicle discounts are available from ATS Euromaster to people who join their Club 60 group.
A number of hotel groups offer discounts to senior people. These include:
Some food and restaurant chains offer discounts to older people. These include:
There are also various discounts available at the following sites. They include London attractions popular with visitors.
Existing National Trust members can request 25% off their subscription after reaching 60. This means they pay £72 for entry to more than 500 locations across the UK.
A senior English Heritage membership card costs £69 a year. This offers access to more than 400 sites and allows free parking at most of them.
The Royal Horticultural Society offers a senior life membership card to over-60s. Ant the Royal Botanical Kew Gardens offers a concession to those over 65.
Many theatres, attractions and museums also offer discounts to older people. In the North East these include the following examples, of two deals for over-60s and an added two for over-65s - but check out what's available across the region:
Those wanting to visit theatres of museums across the country will also find discounts. These include:
A number of major retailers offer discounts to older citizens. These include: