The search for senior savings

Making a dollar go further in a challenging economy is a noble goal. For some New Mexico senior citizens on a fixed income, searching for ways to trim spending while leading a fulfilling life, is more of a necessity.

While resources to help in the search are available, they are not always obvious or easy to find. Those resources, at no or low cost, can be found for food, legal services, education and other areas.

Visits to Valencia County businesses, senior and community centers, plus conversations with average citizens, public and private authorities reveal savings options.

Discounts

No matter the age, who doesn’t love a discount?

Random calls to a fistful of locally-owned businesses revealed about half offered senior discounts. A senior menu was available but no discount per se’ at one restaurant. A home service business didn’t have a specific discount but would negotiate.

However, inquiring about discounts can be difficult.

“I hate asking for them — it’s awkward,” said Barb, a regular at the Fred Luna Multigenerational Center in Los Lunas. “I would really like a printed list.”

That was a common request, with some uncomfortable using phone apps or internet.

Another woman said, “I just want to be treated with respect,” when it comes to services.

While answering a News-Bulletin survey, Beatrice at the Bosque Farms Community Center agreed.

“Yes, it’s uncomfortable (to request discounts) because vendors look at me like I’m crazy,” she said.

Seniors shared their favorite discount locations, including Ross, Subway and Mitchell Theaters. National restaurants such as Applebee’s, Chile’s and Denny’s also offer discounts.

As do Walgreen’s, on the first Tuesday of each month; Albertson’s, on the first Wednesday of each month.

“It’s busy, busy that day,” said one Albertson’s employee.

Many discounts aren’t advertised, another frustration. However, New Mexico Rail Runner Express promotes free Wednesday rides for the 60+ crowd, with reduced fares daily. Rio Metro bus service is free.

Entities differ on what age qualifies for senior discounts. Many consider a senior citizens as 65 and older, while others start at age 60 or even 55.

Food

Donations are taken at senior citizen centers across Valencia County, said Lydia Maldonado, who oversees the five facilities.

“It’s the donation of food, canned goods,” most in demand, Maldonado said. “We put them out there and they will go first.

“You see the need when people come in for lunches,” said Maldonado about the meals served weekdays for a suggested $2 donation in Belen, Meadow Lake, Los Lunas, Bosque Farms and Rio Communities, which is currently closed for renovation.

“Our numbers have gone up. We’re feeding a lot more people, county-wide” Maldonado said. “A lot of the seniors go to food distributions,” said Rose Poitras, Bosque Farms community center director, mentioning a weekly dinner at Grace Fellowship Church in Los Lunas.

St. Vincent de Paul in Belen also distributes food, Tuesday and Wednesday.

An enthusiastic response follows the suggestion that pizza is a good option.

“It feeds a large group,” said Lorraine, a visitor to Belen Senior Center. “You can eat it the next day.”

At the same gathering, Bev says she doesn’t eat out.

“I cook all the time — I’m glad I grew up when I did so I know how to fix things — beans, enchiladas.”

Legal matters

A line snaked around the hallway Sept. 6 at 13th Judicial District Courthouse in Los Lunas for the first free in person Legal Service Clinic since the Covid pandemic. Many waiting for help are seniors.

“The need is tremendous,” said Simone Seiler, attorney supervisor with the 13th Judicial District Court. “A lot of people can’t afford legal consultation.”

That includes a Los Lunas woman in her late 70s.

“I think it’s wonderful. I don’t know what else I would do,” the woman said, admitting to being a bit frazzled as she clutched papers to help explain a family dispute to a volunteer lawyer.

Virtual clinics are held periodically, but Seiler believes “face to face” makes it “easier to understand what’s going on, easier to be sure you are being heard.”

Seiler says there are legal resources for seniors and others — Senior Citizens Law Office, Modest Means Helpline, Pegasus Legal Services (for guardianship issues), Law Help New Mexico and New Mexico Aging & Disability Resource Center.

AARP and others offer free aid for tax preparation. At the Belen Senior Center, Greta, of Rio Communities, mentioned her volunteer tax work.

“I love meeting the people and helping them. Some are in tears when I say, ‘no charge,’” Greta recalled.

Education

Education opportunities are available for people 65 and older at UNM-Valencia campus at only $5 per credit hour, including use of the Wellness Center. Some restrictions apply.

Senior facilities also offer periodic classes on various topics.

Health and fitness

Beth Valasquez, of AARP New Mexico, says starting in January, a 2022 drug law will “cap out-of-pocket prescription drug costs every year, beginning at $2,000.” Velasquez says the estimated annual savings are $1,500.

Additionally, Velasquez says AARP is supporting efforts to aid family care givers, including respite.

Senior facilities often have donated medical equipment, such as walkers and wheelchairs, while several non-profits offer more advanced supplies.

Poitras believes a good way to save money is to exercise and eat right.

“You will save on your health. Lower health expenses,” she said. “Hanging out with friends lowers health expenses because people are happier — the library, community center, churches, have things they offer at free or low cost.”

The Valencia County centers have numerous offerings, including Zumba, line-dancing, Tai Chi, bingo and guest speakers.

Housing

Lack of housing is concerning, according to Maldonado, who says there is a big homeless population among seniors.

“There are no apartments or senior housing available,” Maldonado said.

She advocates for a homeless shelter in the county.

Maldonado says the Valencia County Resource Center in Belen is a good place for advice on housing issues.

For many questions, your local senior facility may be a good place to start.

“When people call with a need, I’ve got a list of things that I look through,” Poitras said.