Does AARP still send magazines? Everything members need to know

According to AARP, the organization has over 38 million members nationwide. This significant membership base leads many to wonder about the benefits and communications they receive. A common and practical question is, Does AARP still send magazines? The short answer is yes, but the long answer involves a few options members have for managing their subscription.

Quick Summary

AARP continues to send its primary magazine, AARP The Magazine, to members by default, offering a mix of news, health advice, and lifestyle content. Members can choose to opt out of the print version and access a digital edition instead, providing flexibility for different preferences.

Key Points

• Default Subscription: AARP members automatically receive the bimonthly AARP The Magazine by mail.

• Digital Options: Members can access a full digital version of the magazine online via the AARP website.

• How to Opt-Out: You can easily stop print delivery by logging into your AARP account and adjusting your communication preferences.

• Spanish Language Version: AARP also offers AARP en Español for its Spanish-speaking members.

• Eco-Friendly Choice: Choosing the digital magazine helps reduce paper waste and household mail clutter.

• Convenience: Managing your subscription online provides flexibility and control over how you receive AARP content.

AARP's Continued Commitment to Print

For decades, the print magazine has been a cornerstone of AARP's communication with its members. Today, AARP The Magazine remains one of the largest-circulation magazines in the world. It provides valuable content on a bimonthly basis, covering everything from health and financial tips to inspirational stories and entertainment reviews tailored for the 50+ demographic. This continued investment in print reflects AARP's understanding that many of its members still prefer a tangible, physical publication to read and enjoy.

The Two Primary Publications from AARP

While AARP The Magazine is the most widely known, it's important to distinguish between the publications members may receive:

• AARP The Magazine: This flagship publication is sent to most AARP members. Its content is broad, covering a variety of topics relevant to the over-50 population. The magazine serves as a primary touchpoint for a substantial portion of the membership.
• AARP en Español: For Spanish-speaking members, AARP offers AARP en Español, which provides similar content in Spanish. This demonstrates AARP's commitment to serving its diverse member base by providing information in their preferred language.

Accessing AARP Content in the Digital Age

While print magazines are still popular, AARP has not ignored the shift toward digital media. For members who prefer less clutter or who are more digitally savvy, there are excellent online alternatives.

• Online Magazine Access: Members can view current and past issues of AARP The Magazine online. This is often available through the member portal on the AARP website.
• Email Newsletters: AARP offers a range of email newsletters covering different topics. These newsletters provide timely articles and updates directly to your inbox, keeping you informed without the need for physical mail.
• Mobile App: AARP's mobile apps often provide access to magazine content and other member benefits, allowing for convenient access on the go.

How to Manage Your AARP Magazine Subscription

Whether you prefer to reduce your paper mail or simply no longer want the print magazine, AARP provides a straightforward process for managing your subscription. The ability to control your preferences is a key feature of the modern membership experience.

The Process for Opting Out of Print

1. Visit the AARP Website: Log in to your account on AARP's official website. This is the central hub for managing all your member benefits and communication preferences.
2. Navigate to Your Preferences: Look for a 'My Account' or 'Communications Preferences' section. This is where you can find all the settings related to the emails and mail you receive.
3. Find Magazine Subscription Settings: Within the preferences, there will be an option to manage your magazine subscription. Here, you can select to stop receiving the print version of AARP The Magazine.
4. Confirm Your Changes: Ensure you save your changes. It may take a few weeks for the change to take effect and for the magazine deliveries to stop completely.

Print vs. Digital AARP Magazine Comparison

Feature	Print Magazine	Digital Magazine
Convenience	Delivered to your mailbox; easy to share physically.	Accessible 24/7 on any device with internet; searchable.
Environment	Consumes paper and resources for printing and shipping.	No paper waste; more sustainable option.
Accessibility	Large-print editions or physical magnifiers may be needed.	Can use accessibility features on devices like screen readers or font-size adjustments.
Storage	Can take up space in the home; potential clutter.	Stored virtually, no physical space required.
Engagement	Tangible, tactile experience; easy to browse and bookmark pages.	Interactive content, links to more information, videos.

The Advantages of Digital for Modern Members

Opting for the digital version of AARP The Magazine offers several benefits. For starters, it's environmentally friendly, reducing the amount of paper and energy required for production and delivery. It also reduces mail clutter, which can be a significant benefit for seniors who receive a lot of unsolicited mail. Moreover, the digital format allows for enhanced features, such as searchable content and links to further resources and videos, which a print copy cannot provide.

Final Thoughts on AARP Publications

So, does AARP still send magazines? Yes, but modern membership offers more choice than ever. Whether you prefer the tactile experience of a traditional magazine or the convenience of a digital format, AARP provides options to meet your needs. By logging into your account, you can easily manage your subscription and ensure your communication preferences align with your lifestyle.

AARP's Membership Communications page is a helpful resource for more information on managing your mail and email subscriptions.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often does AARP send its magazine?

AARP sends AARP The Magazine every two months, which means members receive a total of six issues per year. The delivery schedule is consistent throughout the year.

Is the AARP magazine subscription included with my membership?

Yes, the subscription to AARP The Magazine is included as a standard benefit with your AARP membership. You do not need to pay an extra fee to receive the print version.

Can I stop receiving the AARP magazine by mail?

Yes, you can opt out of the print magazine subscription. You'll need to log into your account on the official AARP website and manage your communication preferences there.

How do I access the digital version of the AARP magazine?

You can access the digital version by logging into your account on the AARP website. The publication section of the site typically provides access to both current and past issues in a digital format.

Does AARP send more than one magazine?

Most members receive AARP The Magazine. Spanish-speaking members receive AARP en Español. AARP may also send other informational publications from time to time, but these are the two main magazines.

Will I lose access to other benefits if I stop the print magazine?

No, opting out of the print magazine has no effect on your other AARP membership benefits, such as discounts, insurance offers, and online resources. It only affects your print mail.

What is the content of AARP The Magazine?

The magazine features a wide variety of content relevant to people over 50. Topics include health and wellness, finance, travel, food, technology, and inspiring stories.