Becoming a senior citizen these days carries a common stereotype that is associated with a slowing down of the mind and body, and an increased dependency on others. While there are some valid points of fact within that stereotype at some level, it's certainly not a true depiction of all senior citizens, and it overlooks some, if not all, of the more positive points that are associated with the elderly. Aging has its disadvantages and unpleasant outcomes, however there are lots of privileges being given to a senior citizen. The advantages you could derive from growing old are actually pretty significant and can assist you cope better with aging.
In the United States, a person reaching the age of 65 is typically considered a "senior citizen" and is eligible for all the benefits associated with the classification. Some of those benefits are mandated at the federal or state level, while others are extended based on courtesy.
Those benefits can include:
Groups and Associations - There are a number of senior citizen groups that have an age requirement in order to join. Perhaps the best known is the AARP (American Association of Retired Persons). The are several others including:
Organizations like this offer a number of excellent benefits including discounts on insurance, travel, car repair, etc.
Discount tax preparation - There are a number of state and federally based organizations that offer reduced rate or even free in some cases, tax preparation.
Discounted restaurant rate - Most restaurant and diners offer some form of senior citizen rate for meals or some type of senior citizen discount. The only catch: you may have to show proof of age to qualify. My mother-in-law likes to travel and eat out, and she has saved quite of bit of money using her senior citizen discounts.
Reduced insurance - Both through certain senior citizen organizations and also, independent of those organizations, there are opportunities for senior citizens to receive reduced rates for various type of insurance including car and homeowner insurance. Don't expect the same discounts for health and life insurance as it's unlikely to happen.
One thing about these types of benefits, they may not be clearly posted or noted anywhere so you may have to ask if any are available.
Although not a senior citizen myself quite yet, my opinion is: you've earned this benefits so take advantage of them and be proud of your senior citizen label. To me, it's a badge of knowledge and experience.
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