Senior Discounts on Eyewear: What You Need to Know
Maintaining good vision is a critical part of healthy aging, but the cost of new glasses can be a significant barrier for many seniors. The good news is that numerous options exist to help reduce this financial burden, from national membership programs to local retailer promotions. Understanding where to look and what to ask for can lead to substantial savings on your next pair of eyeglasses.
Membership Programs Offering Senior Vision Discounts
Joining a membership organization is one of the most effective ways to secure ongoing savings on vision care and eyewear. These groups leverage their large member base to negotiate exclusive deals with optical providers.
- AARP: The American Association of Retired Persons is a powerhouse for senior discounts, and their vision benefits are particularly strong.
- EyeMed: AARP members can access the EyeMed vision discount program, which provides savings at participating retailers nationwide.
- LensCrafters: Offers AARP members exclusive savings, such as 50% off prescription lenses with a frame purchase.
- Target Optical: Provides discounts, including 50% off additional pairs of eyewear and $10 off a complete pair purchase for AARP members.
- AAA: Similar to AARP, the American Automobile Association offers its members savings on eyewear at specific retailers, like LensCrafters.
- AMAC: The Association of Mature American Citizens also partners with various vision providers, including VSP and Lensabl, to offer members special pricing.
Warehouse Clubs: A Hidden Gem for Eyeglass Savings
For seniors who are already members of warehouse clubs, or are considering joining, the in-house optical center is a valuable and often overlooked resource for discounted eyewear.
- Costco Optical: This is widely regarded for its low-cost, high-quality eyeglasses and contact lenses. While you generally don't need a membership to see an optometrist, you must be a member to purchase eyewear. Costco offers competitive pricing and a solid selection of brands.
- Sam's Club Optical: Similar to Costco, Sam's Club provides affordable eyewear to its members. The pricing is often significantly lower than traditional optical stores.
Navigating Vision Insurance and Medicare
For many seniors, understanding how their insurance works is key to saving money. Medicare doesn't typically cover routine eye exams or glasses, but there are exceptions and alternatives.
- Medicare Advantage (Part C): Many private Medicare Advantage plans include vision benefits that cover routine exams, eyewear, and other services. It's crucial to compare different plans, as coverage varies widely.
- Supplemental Vision Insurance: Seniors can purchase separate, supplemental vision insurance plans. VSP is a common provider that partners with organizations like AARP and AMAC to offer members discounted plans.
- FSA/HSA Funds: If you have a Flexible Spending Account (FSA) or Health Savings Account (HSA), you can use these tax-advantaged funds to pay for eyeglasses, contacts, and other vision care expenses.
Finding Deals at Optical Chains and Independent Retailers
Beyond membership programs and warehouse clubs, many optical chains and local stores have their own discount strategies.
- Sales and Promotions: Big chains like LensCrafters and Pearle Vision frequently run seasonal sales, buy-one-get-one (BOGO) offers, and other promotions. Keep an eye out for these deals, especially around holidays.
- Price-Matching: Some retailers may be willing to price-match a competitor's offer. It never hurts to ask, especially if you find a better deal elsewhere.
- Second Pair Discounts: Many opticians will offer a discount on a second pair of glasses if purchased at the same time, which is perfect for seniors who need reading glasses and distance glasses.
Comparison of Senior Eyewear Discounts
| Retailer / Program | Type of Discount | Typical Savings | Who Can Access? |
|---|---|---|---|
| AARP (via EyeMed) | Member discounts, fixed percentage or dollar amount off. | 50% off lenses, $10 off frame. | AARP members |
| Costco Optical | Low, non-negotiated prices on high-quality eyewear. | Average cost often ~$184. | Costco members |
| LensCrafters | Member discounts and seasonal promotions. | 20% off frames, 50% off lenses (AARP). | AARP/AAA members, general public (sales) |
| Target Optical | Member discounts and promotions. | 50% off additional pairs (AARP). | AARP members, general public (sales) |
| AMAC (via VSP) | Member pricing on comprehensive vision plans. | Often over $300 in savings annually. | AMAC members |
| Independent Opticians | Seasonal promotions, second pair deals, cash discounts. | Varies by location. | General public |
Tips for Maximizing Your Eyewear Savings
- Shop Around: Prices can vary significantly between retailers. Compare the same frames and lenses at different stores, including online retailers, to find the best deal.
- Consider Online Retailers: Websites like Zenni Optical and Eyebuydirect offer very low prices on prescription glasses. While you can't try them on in person, they often have generous return policies. Make sure you have your updated prescription handy.
- Use the Right Tools: Utilize your existing memberships and insurance benefits. Never assume that Medicare will cover a purchase without first investigating your specific plan's benefits. For those without vision coverage, leveraging an FSA or HSA is an effective way to save.
Conclusion
Seniors have a wealth of options when it comes to finding discounts on glasses. By exploring membership organizations, visiting warehouse clubs, understanding insurance benefits, and comparing prices at different retailers, seniors can significantly reduce the cost of maintaining their vision. The effort to research these options will pay off, ensuring that clear vision remains accessible and affordable. For more tips on senior health and well-being, explore our resources on healthy aging.
