I celebrated my 55th birthday about a month ago. It was on a Wednesday, which played right into one of my most long-awaited desires: walking into the Kroger supermarket and asking for my senior discount at checkout.
There was only one thing wrong with my plan — Kroger’s senior discount starts at age 60. Rats! I have to give the young lady at the register credit; however, she felt so sorry for me that she gave me the discount anyway and said, “Happy birthday.” Now that’s what I call great customer service.
There are a couple of key elements to receiving senior discounts. One, of course, is being of senior age, which varies by definition depending on who is doing the defining. I like receiving discounts, so the sooner, the better. As far as I’m concerned, I think age 50 is old enough to start cashing in on your senior status. My bank started giving me free checking at age 50. Sweeeet!
Another important aspect for receiving discounts is asking for them. Many stores, restaurants, cinemas, etc., have discounts for seniors — but you must ask for them. I have a few buddies who would never admit to being of senior age in return for a discount. I may be old, but I ain’t stupid. Bring on the free stuff. “I’ll be your huckleberry!”
Besides, age is only a number. If I can get a discount for being a certain age, but feel even younger, woo hoo! Now who’s looking pretty?
So I did a little research and discovered that there are all kinds of discounts available for seniors. Here are just a few places that offer senior discounts starting at age 55 or younger: Dunkin’ Donuts, Arby’s, Denny’s, KFC, McDonald’s, Chick-fil-A, Long John Silver’s, Steak ’n Shake, TCBY, Wendy’s, Belk, Kmart, Publix, Dollar Rent-A-Car, Best Western, Jitterbug cellphones and AMC Theaters. Details may vary, but ask and you shall receive.
There are dozens and dozens of discounts for seniors starting at slightly higher ages. So the longer you live, the more opportunities you have to save big money.
Krispy Kreme also offers discounts, but you have to weigh the good with the bad. Too many trips to the doughnut dynasty may result in a negative impact on aging. So choose wisely, my friends.

DeLong is the executive director of Station Exchange Senior Care. Call him at 912-531-7867 or go to www.thesuitesatstationexchange.com.