Groceries have become a big issue for lots of retirees. For many, inflated food prices are making it difficult to meet other expenses. The U.S. Department of Agriculture Economic Research Service reports that between July 2025 and July 2026, grocery costs increased by around 3%. It doesn’t sound like much until you factor in everything else that’s on the rise.
Since last year at this time, the price of gasoline and diesel fuel has risen by 24%. Paper products are up 5%, sugar, candies, sodas and other treats are up about 10%, and depending on the brand, clothing, shoes and other items have increased by some 10 to 40%.
So, what’s a senior to do? Enjoy your age! Take advantage of every single senior discount available. There are a few right here in Fernley.
Tuesday is a great day to be 65 years of age or older. Raley’s offers seniors a 5% discount on all purchases on Tuesdays. And right across the street, also on Tuesdays, Grocery Outlet will lessen the financial strain by providing a 10% discount to older folks.
If you are enrolled in the MyWalgreens Rewards program, people age 55 and older get a whopping 20% off their purchases on the first Tuesday — and only the first Tuesday — of every month. But here’s the trick: YOU HAVE TO ASK FOR YOUR DISCOUNTS.
Need a haircut? Well, Supercuts drops its price from $25 to $23 for the over-65 set, while Great Clips will prune your locks for only $20.
Not all the restaurants in town offer senior discounts, but some feature senior menus. Portions are smaller, but the price is right for enjoying a meal out with a friend. All Points Bar and Grill, Squeeze In and Black Bear Diner all have menus tailored to senior diners, while Round Table offers a discount to seniors. But again, be sure to ask for it.
Through national brand partnerships, AARP offers a ton of savings. Dining, travel options, merchandise, cell phone service, gasoline and more can be obtained at a discount with an AARP membership.
And who doesn’t order from Amazon? Did you know that lower-income seniors and people with qualifying disabilities may be eligible for a discounted Amazon Prime membership?
If you’re up for RVing or hiking, the National Park Service provides access to literally thousands of sites. People over age 62 can obtain an annual pass for $20 or a lifetime pass for $80.
Visiting our state parks will cost you a little more. However, for $30 a year, those age 65 and older qualify for a Nevada State Park Senior Citizen Permit — a bargain considering the pass sells for $100 for younger people.
Now, here’s some more good news: The City of Fernley and Lyon County care about their older residents. In fact, the city sponsors a Senior Citizens Advisory Committee whose purpose is to bring benefits and information to those of us living out our golden years in town.
With the cooperation of the City Council, this group of appointed volunteers brings us the annual summer fan drives, the Angel Tree of past years, the coming blanket drive, the Ice Cream Social last July and much more.
On Monday, Oct. 19, 2026, at 9 a.m., the Senior Citizens Advisory Committee is sponsoring an important event at Black Bear Diner. AI and Scams: Keep Yourself Safe will be presented free of charge by Timothy Johnston of the Better Business Bureau. Coffee and pastries will be provided.
The Fernley Senior Center, 105 Lois Lane, operated by Lyon County Human Services, is a terrific resource. The center provides nutritious lunches Monday through Friday from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. The cost is $2, but no one is ever turned away.
Periodically, commodities and food distribution days are held at the center. Additionally, a wide range of social activities are offered free of charge. Undoubtedly, the Fernley Senior Center is a wonderful place to connect with old friends and make some new ones.
While doing our shopping in town, we should all be sure to ask every merchant about senior discounts. If enough of us speak up, we might inspire more businesses to offer more savings.
Comment
Comments