Where the senior discounts are

Those (of us) on the other side of 55 may think our best days are behind us. But we've got something other people can't get -- senior discounts.

For our convenience, Gift Card Granny has assembled 136 senior deals all in one place, covering everything from restaurant meals and groceries to travel and clothing deals. A separate "other" category includes movie tickets, hardware and miscellaneous stuff.

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Some discounts are good for people 60 and older, but many can be claimed by those at the tender age of 55, and some at even 50. "Since 50 is the new 40, that means you'll have plenty of years to rake in the savings!" Granny exclaims. (Just another reason to keep on living, I like to say.)

Here's a wrap-up of what you'll find, plus some of the best deals from each category. (Note: Some of these discounts are good only at participating locations, so it's best to call first. But it's still a good idea to bookmark the page.)

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Senior restaurant deals. Many on the list of 56 restaurant and fast-food chains offer 10% off your order, and many make their discounts available to the 55-and-older group. That alone suggests it doesn't hurt to ask about a senior discount wherever you go. Among the best bets:

• Chick-fil-A: Free small drink and 10% discount for those 55 and older.
• Jack in the Box: Up to 20% off many orders for those 55 and above.
• Krispy Kreme: People 50 and older can get 10% off.
• Luby's: This cafeteria-style Texas institution offers 20% off or "senior pricing" for those 50 and older.

Among the stingiest on the list is Taco Bell, with only 5% off for those 65 and above. Post continues after video.

Senior travel discounts. Many hotel chains and car rentals are represented here. (A few require an AARP membership card -- your ticket to a whole lot of other discounts.) So are the airlines, although it's often not very clear how you qualify for their deals. You might want to call the airlines first to ask before you book a flight online.

• Amtrak: A 15% discount for those 62 and older for select destinations.
• Hyatt: "Those 62+ are eligible for various discounts, including half-priced rooms."

Senior clothing discounts. These run the gamut from Bon-Ton to Goodwill, and usually involve a discount on a certain day of the week or month.

• Banana Republic: "10% discount for those 50+, although not all locations participate." (Being older doesn't mean you have to look frumpy.)

Senior grocery discounts. Discounts for older folks at the grocery store? Who knew? They're generally at least 5% off, available one day a week. There are 15 chains on the list, so you'll likely find one that's in your neck of the woods. But, again, call ahead first to make sure your local store offers the deal.

• Albertsons: 10% off on the first Wednesday of the month for those 55 and older.

Other senior discounts. These cover lots of possible purchases, including movie tickets, haircuts, prescription drugs, theme park admissions and cell phone plans.

• Ace Hardware: A 10% discount for those 55 and older.

The best deal by far: People 62 and older can purchase a $10 lifetime pass to all the national parks that charge a fee. That pass also provides a 50% discount on extra services such as camping. It's perfect for those who live near a national park or live the RV life.

All told, this is great, because we older folks have a lot to worry about -- like whether we can retire or not. Do you plan to take advantage of more of these deals? And do you have any others to add to the Gift Card Granny list?

More from MSN Money:

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• Retiring in 10 years? Uh-oh
• The baby boomers turn 65
• 16 things to do before you die
• A new money-for-life retirement plan