Living on a fixed income can sometimes prove to be quite the challenge due to various factors. Senior citizens have to strictly adhere to a budget and they have to do so now more than ever as inflation rates are on the rise and cost of living expenses are through the roof. Senior citizens are also more likely to have health issues or need chronic medication and this is a hefty monthly expense but if a senior is retired or unable to work for whatever reason, how are they meant to cope with medical expense in addition to day-to-day costs?
Walmart stores in Mexico are in the process of introducing a solution that will greatly benefit its senior clientele by taking some of the financial burden off of them when purchasing medication and other items from the pharmacies found in stores.
Walmart Mexico introduces new senior benefit
As of March 1, 2025, senior shoppers of Walmart will be able to enjoy an exclusive discount program from the retailer’s pharmacy counter. Senior customers who are eligible for this exclusive benefit need to be in possession of a credential from the Instituto Nacional de las Personas Adultas Mayores, or the National Institution for Older Adults (INAPAM).
The National Institution for Older Adults or INAPAM is a program that allows Mexican people and legal foreign residents of Mexico who are sixty years of age or older, to enjoy discounts for a variety of products and services. Senior citizens simply need to present their INAPAM card when shopping to enjoy its benefits. This program is run by the Mexican government and is funded by the Pension Program for the Elderly.
What kind of benefits can seniors enjoy?
The big box retailer has shared that eligible customers will soon be able to make use of a 7% discount for the first ten days of the month. From the eleventh day, the discount drops to 5% so be sure to try and fill your prescriptions at the beginning of each month. Though these discounts may seem small, for someone on a fixed income, it can make a huge difference — especially if you consider how much that small amount adds up to over time.
This discount offer will only be available at the pharmacy department of Walmart and Walmart Express stores. Additionally, Bodega Aurrerá stores will also be offering the discounted rate to INAPAM card holders. It is important to note that this discount is only applicable to in-store purchases and will not available on online purchases.
As per information published by the company, “in order to make this discount valid, users will need to be previously registered in the digital version of the Treatment Support Program (PAT digital).” The implementation of this requirement was done so as to ensure efficiency for beneficiaries when they access the discounts on their treatments and medications.
How to sign up for INAPAM
The INAPAM card offers holders a wide range of discounts on various goods and services such as public transport, food, and even cultural and recreational activities.
To apply for an INAPAM card, one must be a resident of Mexico and at least 60 years of age.
Below is a list of documents and criteria to be met when applying, as taken from the official website of the institute:
- Be 60 years of age or older
- Present the original and a copy of a valid identification document (voter ID or passport)
- Birth certificate
- Unique Population Registry Key (CURP)
- Proof of address no more than six months old or proof of residence issued by the local authority
- Two child-sized photographs , in black and white or color
Access to benefits and discounts on medical expenses can greatly improve the quality of life for the elderly and perhaps the coming days will see a similar program being implemented for Walmart stores in the United States.