According to the National Committee to Preserve Social Security and Medicare, millions of seniors in the United States live on fixed or low incomes. Given the rising cost of living, cutting corners is often necessary. Here are a few ways older adults can easily save money.
1. Unplug Electronic Devices when Not in Use
Many electronic devices continue using electricity when they’re turned off. Some of the most obvious culprits are appliances with miniature LED lights that stay on day and night. By unplugging these devices until they need to be used, older adults may notice considerable reductions in their monthly utility bills.
Some seniors may find it difficult to pay their bills and plan their finances while managing daily activities. Aging adults who require assistance with the tasks of daily living can benefit from reliable home care service. Families trust Align Home Care Services to provide the high-quality care their elderly loved ones need and deserve. Our caregivers are trained to help seniors prevent serious illnesses and encourage them to make healthier decisions as they age.
2. Cut Utility Costs
Seniors should close the vents and doors to bedrooms and other rooms when they aren’t in use to reduce utility costs. Utility bills can also be reduced by setting the thermostat to 65 degrees at night during the winter and raising it to 72 degrees in the summer.
3. Limit Shopping Trips
Seniors who visit the grocery store once a week are less likely to splurge on unnecessary items. Older adults should make grocery lists and refrain from purchasing items that aren’t on their lists. They might also consider shopping for groceries after they’ve eaten. This way, they’re less likely to impulsively buy treats or foods they don’t usually eat.
If your loved one needs transportation to run errands such as grocery shopping, consider hiring a professional caregiver. When searching for reliable Kennebunk senior home care agencies, families want to know their senior loved ones will be well taken care of. At Align Home Care Services, our expertly trained caregivers are available around the clock to assist with tasks around the house, provide transportation to medical appointments and social events, and much more.
4. Look for Discounts
Older adults are often eligible for senior discounts. Many places that offer goods and services advertise these money-saving benefits. Discounts are often found at a variety of businesses, from coffee shops to retail stores. Take advantage of the price reductions offered by commonly used service providers.
5. Get Rid of Cable
Monthly cable or satellite TV service can be quite expensive. Most people rarely watch the majority of channels these companies offer. Seniors can often save hundreds of dollars annually by cutting cable services and using other options. Public libraries offer DVDs for rent. The monthly fees for subscribing to Amazon, Hulu, and Netflix cost a fraction compared to cable costs, and these services enable older adults to view their favorite programs and movies.
6. Remove Landlines
Unless it’s needed for business reasons, having a traditional phone line can become costly. Cell phones and payment plans designed for older adults are cost-effective options. Seniors should consider how much time they spend talking on the phone and select their plans based on their typical usage.
7. Sign Up for AARP Membership
For a small annual fee, seniors who join AARP get a subscription to the organization’s magazine, which covers a variety of pertinent topics. An AARP membership also provides older adults with discounts on top of other senior cost reductions. Discounts range from reduced prices at local stores and restaurants to insurance and travel benefits.
Consider hiring a professional caregiver if you need a break from your caregiving duties to tend to your loved one’s financial matters. Whether you need respite from your caregiving duties or your aging loved one needs live-in care, Kennebunk, ME, Align Home Care Services can meet your family’s care needs. Our dedicated caregivers are available around the clock to provide transportation to doctor’s appointments, ensure seniors take their prescribed medications, and help with a variety of tasks in and outside the home. Call one of our friendly Care Managers at (207) 606-8419 to learn about ways our experienced caregivers can help your loved one.