Some Good News About Getting Older

When you get up in the morning and struggle with creaking joints, it's hard to come up with something nice to say about getting older. So here's at least one benefit of passing 50: senior discounts. These used to be limited to people 65 and older, but in the current recession, lots of businesses are trying to lure in older people by offering lower fees if you're as "young" as 50.

Of course, you have to check vanity at the door. If, for example, you're going to the movies with a younger pal, it can be a little embarrassing to ask for a senior ticket when she is still paying full adult fare. One tip: buy your ticket beforehand online and no one will know. But if you are willing to sacrifice vanity for savings (not a bad bargain), you can do well. Major hotel chains, rental car companies and even amusement parks all offer discounts for seniors of varying eligibility ages.

One of the easiest ways to clean up is to join AARP. For a small annual fee, you get access to lots of discounts. If you belong to airline or hotel rewards programs, check to see whether they have any special arrangements for older people. Another good source of information is the website savvysenior.org.

Remember to ask about senior discounts every time you make a reservation. And always bring your ID when you show up in case anyone questions your age (in a good way). It hurts to think of yourself as "senior" when you still feel you're in your prime but a little extra in your bank account should help you swallow your pride.