Across Canada, senior discounts give older adults the opportunity to save money while continuing to enjoy everyday activities, travel, and entertainment. These programs are not only a way to stretch retirement income but also a recognition of the contributions seniors have made to their communities over the years. Whether you’re shopping, dining out, or planning your next vacation, national businesses across Canada offer real savings for older Canadians.
What Age Is Considered a Senior Citizen in Canada?
The age to qualify for senior discounts in Canada can vary depending on the company. Some retailers and restaurants begin offering savings at 55 or 60, while others reserve discounts for those aged 65 and older. Seniors may also need to present valid ID, join a rewards program, or sign up for a membership to access certain offers. Since there is no universal standard, it’s always best to ask at the counter or check a company’s website for eligibility details.
A Look at CARP: The Canadian Association of Retired Persons
The Canadian Association of Retired Persons (CARP) is one of the largest advocacy groups for older Canadians. With members across the country, CARP focuses on issues such as health care, retirement security, and age-friendly communities. A membership also unlocks a wide variety of discounts on travel, insurance, shopping, dining, and more. For many Canadians, the value of CARP membership is felt not just in the exclusive savings but in the national advocacy it provides on behalf of seniors.
Canada-Wide Senior Discounts
Seniors across Canada can take advantage of special savings offered by national chains and organizations. From everyday essentials to travel and entertainment, these discounts make it easier to enjoy more while spending less.
Here are some of the most common Canada-wide businesses where seniors can save:
Shopping & Retail Savings for Seniors
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Value Village - Seniors 60+ receive 30% off on designated Senior’s Day (varies by location, typically Tuesday).
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Michael’s - Customers 55+ enjoy 10% off regular-priced merchandise every day.
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Global Pet Foods - Seniors 60+ save 15% in-store on the last Tuesday of every month at participating locations (with Rewards Card; some restrictions apply).
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Home Hardware - Seniors 60+ receive 10% off at select locations on designated days.
Grocery Store Discounts Across Canada
Dining Out with Senior Savings
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McDonald’s - Many locations across Canada provide discounted coffee and select menu items for seniors 55+.
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Subway - Participating restaurants offer 10% off to seniors 60+.
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Smitty’s - Loyalty members aged 60+ can earn double rewards points on designated days nationwide.
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Tim Horton’s - While there’s no official national senior discount, seniors 60+ may receive around 10% off at many locations at the manager’s discretion; check with your local store.
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Taco Bell - Seniors 65+ at participating locations may receive a free drink and 5% or more off their meal; check with your local restaurant for availability.
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Wendy’s - Seniors 55–60+ may receive a free senior-sized coffee or soda, or about 10% off at participating locations; check with your local restaurant for specific offers.
Pharmacy & Drugstore Senior Discounts
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Shoppers Drug Mart – Customers 65+ with a PC Optimum card can save 20% on regular-priced merchandise during Senior’s Day events (dates vary).
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Rexall - Seniors 55+ receive 20% off regularly priced items every Tuesday with a Be Well Rewards card (excludes sale items, prescriptions, and select products).
Travel Deals for Older Canadians
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VIA Rail Canada - There is no longer a specific senior discount, but seniors 65+ can select the “Senior (65+)” traveler type when booking online to view fares available for older travelers. Additional savings may come from CAA member discounts (up to 20% off), advance purchase deals, or Discount Tuesdays with promo code TUESDAY; discounted seats are limited.
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Air Canada - Occasionally offers reduced fares or promotions for seniors (check availability).
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WestJet - WestJet does not offer dedicated senior discounts in Canada, but seniors can save by booking early, selecting flexible travel dates, and watching for special promotions. Joining the WestJet Rewards program can also provide points and perks that help reduce travel costs over time.
Banking & Financial Perks for Seniors
Most major Canadian banks offer seniors’ accounts with lower fees or free services:
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TD, RBC, Scotiabank, BMO, CIBC - Benefits may include no-fee accounts, unlimited transactions, and discounted safety deposit boxes for customers 60+.
Transportation Discounts for Seniors on the Go
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Greyhound (when operating in Canada) - Seniors 62+ receive 5% off unrestricted fares on Greyhound Canada buses.
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Local Transit Systems - Many city and regional transit providers offer reduced senior fares across Canada.
Hotel Savings for Senior Travelers
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Best Western - Seniors 55+ receive discounts up to 15% off room rates.
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Choice Hotels - Seniors 60+ can save up to 10% by selecting the “Senior” rate when booking in advance or calling the hotel directly. CARP members may also be eligible for exclusive offers.
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Wyndham Hotels - Seniors 60+ can save up to 10% off the Best Available Rate at participating Ramada, Days Inn, and Travelodge locations in Canada, with proof of age required at check-in.
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Holiday Inn Express - Seniors 62+ can book a discounted Senior Rate at participating Canadian locations by reserving in advance and showing valid senior ID at check-in.
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Sandman Hotel Group -Seniors 55+ can book the Seniors Offer at participating Sandman or Sandman Signature hotels to save up to 25% off the Standard Rate. Guests also receive a $10 food and beverage gift card per night, and RSVP Rewards members can earn points toward future stays (membership is free).
Membership Programs & Exclusive Perks for Seniors
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CAA (Canadian Automobile Association) - Membership provides roadside assistance plus savings on hotels, shopping, and travel; some branches offer reduced rates for seniors.
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CARP Insurance Programs - Members have access to exclusive rates on home, auto, and health insurance.
Entertainment Discounts for Seniors in Canada
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Cineplex Theatres - Seniors 65+ receive reduced admission prices at locations nationwide.
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Landmark Cinemas - Seniors 65+ can enjoy discounts on tickets and concession items on Senior’s Day (varies by location).
Exploring Parks with Senior Discounts
Car Rental Discounts for Senior Drivers
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Avis - CARP members can receive 25% off base rates on car rentals.
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Budget Car Rental - CARP members 50+ can save up to 25% or more on rentals in Canada; a discount code is required when booking, and terms may apply.
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Hertz - Seniors 50+ can receive discounted rates through designated programs.
Let Senior Home Care by Angels Help You Make the Most of Senior Discounts Near You
At Senior Home Care by Angels, we understand that every dollar counts, and taking advantage of senior discounts can make a meaningful difference for seniors across Canada. From groceries and dining out to entertainment, transportation, and government services, there are countless ways for older adults to save, but accessing these discounts can sometimes be challenging.
That’s where we come in. Our caregivers do more than provide companionship and in-home care. They help seniors plan errands around discount days, clip coupons, track loyalty programs, and ensure IDs and paperwork are ready. We can assist with grocery shopping, attending appointments, and managing day-to-day tasks so that seniors can enjoy the financial and social benefits of their local and national discount programs safely and independently.
Whether you live in Alberta, Manitoba, Ontario, Nova Scotia, or anywhere else in Canada, our team is here to help you or your loved one navigate senior discounts, stay engaged in your community, and make life more manageable and enjoyable. Contact Senior Home Care by Angels today to learn how our personalized in-home care services can help you save money, maintain independence, and live life to the fullest.