In the past, retirement often kicked in during one's sixties. Women used to receive their State Pension at 60, while men had to wait until they turned 65. However, rule changes have bumped this up to 66 for both genders, with further increases already slated to take effect.
Thankfully there are still some discounts that kick in when you hit 60, to take the sting out of those extra years at work. In even better news, some perks come completely free of charge, so you can begin claiming them straight away.
It's worth nothing that some of these discounts are location-dependant - such as bus travel -, but plenty are available across the country including savings on optician bills, prescriptions, and grocery discounts.
Prescriptions
Anyone aged 60 or over can get their prescribed medication free of charge. To claim your free prescriptions, simply inform the chemist at the till and then complete the back of the prescription, reports Lancs Live.
You might need to show proof of age. Prescriptions currently cost £9.90 per item, so this is one freebie that's definitely worth having.
Eye tests
Just like prescriptions, turning 60 also brings financial relief at the optician's. Everyone over 60 is entitled to free eye tests, saving you between £20 and £100 depending on where you go. Again, you may need to bring proof of age with you. Unfortunately, you don't automatically get financial help with your glasses, but some places do offer discounts.
Specsavers
If you're over 60 and purchase a single pair of glasses from the £70 range or above, you'll receive a 20 per cent discount. This applies to frames, lenses and any additional options such as lens protection treatments or sun protection. All glasses come with a standard scratch-resistant treatment. For more information, visit their website.
Rail travel
With a Senior Railcard, anyone aged 60 or over can enjoy a third off all Standard and First Class, Anytime, Off-Peak and Advance fares. You can use your railcard almost anytime during the week, weekends and public holidays.
The only time to avoid travelling is during morning Peak time services, Monday to Friday (excluding public holidays) when journeys are made entirely within the London and South East Network Railcard area, as these are not included. For more details, visit the Senior Railcard website.
Bus pass
Thousands qualify for free travel upon reaching 60. However, this depends on where you live. For instance, residents in Wales and those living in London (travelling within the capital) can get one at 60. The age at which passes are issued can vary elsewhere, so it's best to check with your local council to see when they will be given.
Iceland
Over 60s can enjoy a 10 per cent discount on their shopping at Iceland every Tuesday. Shoppers must have an Iceland Bonus Card and may need to show proof of their age such as a senior bus pass, driving licence or Senior Railcard. There's no minimum spend to qualify for the discount.
Boots
Join the Boots Over 60s rewards programme and you'll be racking up double Advantage Card points in no time. But that's not all—you'll also get invites to exclusive events like makeovers and prize draws, plus extra points at Boots Hearingcare and other perks.
Cinemas
Fancy a trip to the cinema? Some cinemas offer discounts for older folks, with some deals kicking in when you reach 60. Odeon's Silver Cinema Club offers discounts to over-60s, with special film screenings during quieter times aimed at mature audiences.
Tickets are a bargain at just £3.50 and even include free tea, coffee and biscuits before the movie starts. Other national chains like Empire and Picturehouse have similar schemes on offer.
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