What is AARP and who is eligible?
AARP, originally the American Association of Retired Persons, was founded in 1958 with the goal of improving the quality of life for older Americans. While the organization's mission centers on empowering people aged 50 and older, anyone can join regardless of age. However, some benefits, particularly those related to insurance, may be restricted based on age. A standard annual membership is affordable, and a second household member can be added for free.
The benefits of an AARP membership
The value of an AARP membership often comes down to how well you utilize the resources and discounts. The organization offers an extensive range of perks that can potentially save members money and provide valuable guidance.
Savings and discounts
AARP is well-known for its wide variety of discounts across many categories:
- Travel: Members can find exclusive deals on hotels, rental cars (Avis, Budget), cruises, and even vacation packages through the AARP Travel Center powered by Expedia.
- Dining and Entertainment: Discounts are available at many national restaurant chains, as well as on movie tickets, live performances, and local entertainment.
- Retail: Members can access various shopping discounts, including potential savings on an annual Walmart+ membership.
- Insurance: AARP-endorsed insurance plans are available for a variety of needs, including auto, home, dental, and Medicare supplemental plans.
- Prescriptions: An AARP prescription discount card is offered, which provides deeper discounts to members on medications.
Advocacy and resources
Beyond direct savings, AARP is a powerful lobbyist for seniors' interests at both the federal and state levels. Their efforts focus on protecting and improving key areas vital to older Americans. Key advocacy and resources include:
- Protecting Social Security and Medicare: AARP actively works to safeguard the financial stability of these critical programs and reduce healthcare costs for seniors.
- Fighting Fraud: The AARP Fraud Watch Network arms members with information to avoid scams and provides a helpline for assistance.
- Combatting Age Discrimination: Advocacy and resources are dedicated to protecting older workers' rights and combating age bias in the workplace and media.
- Providing Information: Members receive publications like AARP The Magazine and the AARP Bulletin, which contain a wealth of information on health, finances, and retirement.
Potential criticisms and drawbacks
While AARP offers numerous benefits, it is not without its critics. Some common drawbacks cited by members and non-members alike include:
- Questionable Value: Some have found that the discounts offered are not always the best available, especially compared to deals found through other memberships or credit cards. You may need to do your own comparison shopping to ensure you are getting the best deal on products like insurance.
- Hidden Business Interests: AARP makes a significant amount of money through royalties from the companies whose products they endorse. This raises questions for some about whether the endorsed products are truly the best option for members or simply the most profitable for the organization.
- Political Stance: Despite its nonpartisan claims, AARP has been accused by some of having a liberal bias in its advocacy efforts, leading some conservative-leaning seniors to seek alternative organizations like AMAC.
AARP vs. Alternatives: Is it a good organization for seniors?
Choosing the right organization for your needs depends on what benefits you prioritize. Here is a comparison of AARP with a common alternative, the Association of Mature American Citizens (AMAC).
| Feature | AARP | AMAC |
|---|---|---|
| Membership Base | ~38 million members, largest senior organization | Considerably smaller than AARP |
| Advocacy Stance | Self-proclaimed nonpartisan, but perceived as liberal by some | Openly conservative, aligning with traditional American values |
| Discounts | Wide variety of discounts on travel, dining, insurance, and more | Also offers discounts on travel, insurance, and other products |
| Publications | AARP The Magazine (most-read in America) and AARP Bulletin | Bi-monthly magazine focused on conservative viewpoints |
| Key Services | Fraud protection, job boards, tax help, and financial tools | Fraud alerts, discounts, and political commentary |
| Ideal Member | Someone who values a wide range of benefits and broad advocacy, and isn't concerned about perceived political leanings. | A conservative-leaning senior who desires an organization more aligned with their political and social values. |
Ultimately, the value of an AARP membership for a senior is personal. If you use the discounts regularly and value the general advocacy for older Americans, the low annual fee is likely worthwhile. If you are concerned about their political influence or feel their endorsed products are not the best value, exploring alternatives like AMAC or seeking discounts elsewhere may be a better fit.
Conclusion
Is AARP a good organization for seniors? The answer is that it can be, but it depends on your individual needs and priorities. For many, the cost-effective membership provides access to valuable savings and resources on travel, insurance, and other services. The organization's broad advocacy for senior issues is another major draw for many members. However, the perceived political leanings and the fact that better deals can sometimes be found elsewhere mean that it's important to evaluate the membership based on your specific situation. A trial membership is an excellent way to determine if the benefits will outweigh the cost for you personally.
