6. Carry coupons

If you're not the clipping-coupons-from-your-newspaper type, no worries. Before you head to the grocery story, print out coupons from sites like couponmom.com and coupons.com. Or do an online search for coupons — it'll bring up dozens of sites.

7. Senior discounts

Being older has its perks at some supermarkets and local food stores, which offer unadvertised discounts of up to 10 percent. Ask at your store.

8. Retail rescue

Couponsherpa.com, retailmenot.com and other websites pool the best printable discounts from retailers like Kohl's, Walmart, Gap and Best Buy. Some have mobile apps that let you scan bar codes with your smartphone or tablet computer.

9. Unplug it

Computers, televisions and other devices and appliances burn energy when they're plugged into outlets. So when they're not in use (this goes for cellphone and laptop chargers, too), unplug your stuff.

10. Cool down

If you're away from home for most of the day in wintertime, lower your thermostat to 58 degrees. The Alliance to Save Energy says you can save 3 percent on your heating bill for each degree you lower the thermostat.

Also of Interest

• Save up to $10,000 a year
  
• New American Diet: A sensible way to lose weight
• Join AARP: Savings, resources and news for your financial well-being

Visit the AARP home page for great deals and savings tips