AARP's Membership: More Than Just a Number
The American Association of Retired Persons, more commonly known as AARP, is a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering Americans 50 and older. While the nearly 38 million member figure is impressive on its own, it’s important to understand what that number signifies. AARP's large membership base gives it substantial political and market influence, allowing the organization to negotiate on a large scale and advocate for change on behalf of its members.
This broad reach and robust member base enable AARP to secure a wide array of benefits, services, and discounts for people aged 50 and over. From insurance plans to travel deals and financial planning tools, the membership leverages collective buying power to create real possibilities for a large and influential demographic. The organization’s history shows a consistent track record of growing its membership and influence since its founding in 1958, starting with retired educators and expanding to include all Americans aged 50+.
The Historical Growth of AARP Membership
Founded in 1958 by retired principal Ethel Percy Andrus and insurance broker Leonard Davis, AARP initially grew out of the National Retired Teachers Association (NRTA). Early on, Andrus saw the need for affordable health insurance and other benefits for older Americans who were often denied coverage. The organization quickly expanded beyond its teacher roots, and its membership grew exponentially over the decades. A key moment came in 1984 when AARP lowered its membership age from 55 to 50, which further accelerated its growth. This was a strategic move to serve the large baby boomer population as they approached their 50s, solidifying AARP's position as a dominant force in the aging space. Today, the NRTA exists as a division within AARP.
The Diverse Demographic of AARP Members
The nearly 38 million members of AARP are not a monolithic group. They represent a wide cross-section of American society. It is a common misconception that all members are retired. In reality, a significant portion of AARP's membership is still in the workforce. In 1999, the organization dropped the full name "American Association of Retired Persons" to simply AARP to better reflect that its members were not all retired.
This diversity allows AARP to focus on a variety of issues, including health security, financial stability, and personal fulfillment, which are important to both working and retired individuals over 50. The organization produces different publications and content, such as AARP The Magazine and AARP Bulletin, to cater to these diverse interests.
Core Membership Benefits and Offerings
AARP provides a vast array of benefits designed to enhance the quality of life for its members. These offerings can be categorized into several key areas:
- Health and Wellness: Members can access a variety of health-related benefits, including dental and vision insurance plans, prescription drug discounts, and access to wellness resources like the Staying Sharp program focused on brain health.
- Financial Stability: AARP provides resources and tools for financial planning, retirement savings, and protection against fraud. The organization also offers endorsed products like AARP-branded life and auto insurance.
- Travel and Lifestyle Discounts: Members enjoy hundreds of discounts on dining, shopping, hotels, and car rentals. This collective purchasing power provides significant savings on everyday essentials and leisure activities.
- Advocacy: AARP is a powerful voice on Capitol Hill, lobbying for the interests of older Americans on issues such as Medicare, Social Security, and lower prescription drug costs.
Comparison: AARP Membership vs. Non-Membership
| Feature | AARP Member | Non-Member (Age 50+) |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | Annual fee (e.g., $15) | No annual fee |
| Discounts | Access to hundreds of exclusive discounts on travel, dining, and more | Standard public discounts only |
| Insurance Products | Access to AARP-endorsed insurance products from partners like UnitedHealthcare and The Hartford | No access to AARP-endorsed products |
| Publications | Subscription to AARP The Magazine and AARP Bulletin | No automatic subscription to publications |
| Advocacy Voice | Part of a large, influential group lobbying for their interests | No collective voice via AARP |
| Resources | Access to extensive online and in-person resources, games, and programs | Limited or no access to AARP-specific resources |
| Household Inclusion | Free secondary membership for another adult in the household | No free secondary membership |
The Impact of Advocacy
AARP's influence extends far beyond membership benefits. The organization is a major advocate for legislation and policies that impact the 50+ population. For example, AARP has been a vocal supporter of the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022, which allows Medicare to negotiate drug prices and caps annual out-of-pocket spending for Medicare beneficiaries. The organization has also been a long-time advocate for strengthening Social Security and fighting age discrimination in the workplace.
Moreover, AARP works on a local and state level through its state offices and volunteer networks to support caregivers, combat rising utility rates, and promote livable communities with affordable housing options. This broad-based advocacy is a significant aspect of AARP’s mission and one of the main reasons for its long-standing influence.
The Power of AARP's Publications
AARP’s magazines are a testament to its reach. AARP The Magazine and AARP Bulletin are consistently among the largest-circulation publications in the United States. These publications not only provide valuable information to members but also serve as a powerful communication tool for AARP to connect with its audience and influence public discourse. By delivering trusted news, information, and resources directly to millions of households, AARP solidifies its position as a go-to source for the 50+ demographic. The organization’s digital platforms and Spanish-language resources also expand its reach and relevance.
Conclusion: A Legacy of Influence
So, how many members does AARP have? The answer is a robust and influential nearly 38 million members. This number is a testament to AARP's historical growth, its ability to adapt to the changing needs of the 50+ population, and its commitment to advocacy and member benefits. As the baby boomer generation continues to age, AARP’s role in shaping policies, providing valuable resources, and empowering older Americans remains as vital as ever.
To learn more about their history and mission, visit the official AARP website.
