(BPT) - As we age, there comes a point when many enter what's known as the sandwich generation, which is when adults who are caring for their own family also step into the role of supporting their parents. This support manifests in a variety of ways, including caregiving, financial guidance, housing, transportation and even technical support. Being "sandwiched" can be challenging, but there are many ways to navigate this phase. One of the most important things to set them up for success is to help them budget.
"The role reversal experienced by children helping their parents navigate later life can be overwhelming," said Jason Mugg, senior vice president of Business Solutions & Analysis for AARP Services. "One way an AARP membership aims to simplify this process is by making discounts and savings accessible on essential items to support caregivers and their loved ones."
From deals on everyday appliances and needs, to discounts on security and phone lines, AARP member benefits can help you set your parents up for success both financially and personally.
Finding steals, avoiding move-in ordeals
Are you helping your parents move into a new home? New homes mean new appliances, and that shouldn't break the bank. An AARP membership can help your parents save 10% or more on the full line of GE Appliances, including GE®, Profile™, CafĂ©™, Monogram®, Haier and Hotpoint® major appliances. They also receive in-home delivery, installation and haul-away services.
If you're looking to move those appliances yourself, AARP members save 20% on local or one-way truck rentals from Sunday through Thursday and 10% on Friday and Saturday, and receive a $10-per-day Physical Damage Waiver with Budget Truck Rentals.
Secure their safety
Ensuring your parents are set up with security is important for their continued comfort. If they're looking to take a road trip or are making an everyday commute, an AARP membership can help them save on 24/7 roadside assistance with Allstate Roadside. Members save up to 20% on annual membership fees for Allstate Roadside plans, including Roadside Advantage, Roadside Assist and Roadside Elite, and have access to assistance for towing, jump-starts, tire changes, lockout assistance, fuel delivery and more.
Feeling safe at home is always important, and AARP members receive a 5% monthly discount* on 24/7 ADT professional monitoring services. This offer can also be combined with select other promotions on ADT smart home products. *Discount applies to monthly monitoring rate. Req. system purchase & pro monitoring plan w/ 1 mo. min. w/DIY or 36 mo. w/pro install (early cancel fees). Not available for online orders. AARP members only. Terms & pricing here.
And, whether it is for safety or companionship, it is a good idea for your parents to have a cell phone. AARP members save 5% on monthly service and 30% off select accessories with Consumer Cellular. Talk, text and data plans start at $20 per month per line. No long-term contract is required and they receive an extended 45-day risk-free guarantee.
The sound (and sight) of savings
Whether you're driving them to and from medical appointments or frequently repeating what is said, watching parents grow older can be difficult, and even make you feel like roles are slowly reversing. However, helping them manage their health now isn't just an act of love; it's an important step that can help them thrive in their later years. Taking advantage of AARP member benefits can help make it even easier.
As hearing loss tends to happen gradually, you can help your parents explore hearing care options to check their hearing and save. AARP members can save up to 50% on prescription hearing aids and up to $200 off over-the-counter hearing aids with AARP® Hearing Solutions™ provided by UnitedHealthcare® Hearing. Members also receive a free hearing exam and consultation, with personalized support through a large nationwide network of hearing providers. No insurance is needed to use the program.
To help make sure your parents are still seeing clearly, work with them to get their vision checked annually. If they do need new glasses or lenses, AARP members can receive exclusive savings through Visionworks. Discounts include $200 off a complete pair of glasses when you buy single vision lenses or $250 off with multifocal lenses.
While there is no easy solution to juggling life as part of the sandwich generation, using resources like AARP member benefits can help make setting your parents up for success just a bit easier.
To learn more about the benefits and discounts for AARP members, please visit aarp.org/save.
AARP and its affiliates are not insurers, agents, brokers or producers. AARP member benefits are provided by third parties, not by AARP or its affiliates. Providers pay a royalty fee to AARP for the use of its intellectual property. These fees are used for the general purposes of AARP. Some provider offers are subject to change and may have restrictions. Please contact the provider directly for details.
