In today’s economy, everyone is looking for a way to reduce costs and save more, but it often seems more difficult than ever to be able to afford the things we need and want. This is especially true for those living on fixed incomes, particularly elderly people. If your senior loved one is looking for ways to save some money, here are a few tips.
1. Take the Senior Discount
Many businesses offer discounts to seniors, but sometimes aging adults may have to ask about these savings. Some museums and stores include senior discounts in their pricing structures, so it never hurts to ask. Accepting a senior discount shouldn’t be an embarrassing thing for your loved one. It’s meant to help out.
When it comes to living a high quality of life, older adults may need more than just a few tips on saving money. Seniors who want to remain healthy as they age can benefit in a variety of ways when they receive professional senior care. Assisting Hands Home Care is here to help your loved one accomplish daily tasks, prevent illness, and focus on living a healthier and more fulfilling life.
2. Reduce Electricity Costs
When appliances aren’t in use, turn them off. Any device whose power light stays on when the device is turned off uses unnecessary electricity. Computers left in standby mode are still using energy, which translates to a higher electric bill. Your loved one may feel it’s harmless to leave the porch light or television on when not in use, but keeping those turned off can make a big difference in monthly spending. Your loved one can save up to $150 a year by replacing his or her light bulbs with more economical LED versions. In addition, your parent should clean the clothes dryer’s lint filter after each use. When filters are clogged, dryers have to use more electricity to get clothes thoroughly dry.
3. Close the Curtains
Suggest keeping the blinds and curtains drawn during the day to keep out heat from the sun. Keeping the curtain closed can not only save the carpet from being discolored, but it can also cut energy costs. This simple tip can reduce the amount of heat entering your loved one’s home by up to 45 percent. In the summer, this can be a huge help, as the AC will likely have to run less frequently.
Apart from managing their finances, older adults may also require assistance with everyday activities. If your aging loved one needs occasional help with bathing, grooming, cooking, or other basic household tasks, or if you need time to attend to important personal matters, reach out to Assisting Hands Home Care, a leading provider of respite care. Livingston seniors can maintain their independence while living at home with the help of our reliable home caregivers.
4. Get Rid of Unused Memberships
Some seniors subscribe to services they aren’t using. If your loved one pays for store or club memberships he or she doesn’t use any longer, they should be canceled. These types of unused memberships have a way of subtly draining cash without seniors realizing it because they’re often individually cheap.
5. Offer Time Instead of Money
Many people donate to some sort of charity. However, your loved one can donate in non-monetary ways. Instead, your parent can offer to donate time to the local animal shelter or food bank rather than sending cash. Oftentimes, the recipient will be much more pleased to receive volunteer help than money. If your loved one does donate monetarily, remind him or her it’s tax-deductible.
Helping a parent with finances can be difficult, especially when his or her health is decreasing. Many older adults are choosing to age in place, and some need a helping hand to continue living at home safely and comfortably. Luckily, there is professional home care Livingston seniors can trust and rely on. If your loved one needs professional care, Assisting Hands Home Care is here to help. Call one of our dedicated Care Managers today to learn about the high quality of our in-home care services.
