Understanding AARP: Who It’s For and What It Does
Before deciding if an AARP membership is necessary for you, it's essential to understand the organization's scope. AARP was founded in 1958 and is a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization dedicated to empowering people aged 50 and older. Its mission includes providing information, a sense of community, and a wide array of member benefits. While its focus is on the 50+ demographic, anyone aged 18 or older can become a member, though some insurance benefits are restricted by age.
AARP's work extends far beyond discounts. It is a major advocacy organization, lobbying on behalf of older Americans on key issues like Social Security and Medicare. By joining, you're not only getting access to a suite of benefits but also supporting this important advocacy work.
The Extensive World of AARP Benefits and Discounts
The most significant and immediate reason people join AARP is for the potential savings. A membership card unlocks discounts across many aspects of daily life. The savings can be substantial for those who utilize them regularly.
Travel and Recreation
- Hotels: Discounts of up to 10% or more at major hotel chains like Wyndham, Hilton, and Best Western.
- Car Rentals: Significant savings with car rental companies such as Avis and Budget, often up to 30% off base rates.
- Cruises and Flights: Deals and onboard credits on select cruises and discounts on round-trip airfare with certain airlines.
- Entertainment: Access to discounts on event tickets, movie screenings, and popular attractions.
Health and Wellness
- Insurance: AARP-branded insurance products are offered through partnerships with providers like The Hartford (Auto and Home) and UnitedHealthcare (Medicare).
- Vision and Hearing: Savings on eyewear at LensCrafters and Target Optical, plus access to free hearing tests.
- Prescriptions: A free prescription discount card offers deeper savings for members on medications.
Everyday Life
- Dining: 10-15% discounts at many national restaurant chains and local eateries.
- Cell Phones and Technology: Special pricing on mobile service plans from Consumer Cellular and AT&T.
- Financial Services: Resources for financial planning, fraud protection, and special offers on certain banking products.
AARP vs. Alternatives: A Comparison
AARP is not the only organization providing benefits to older adults. It's wise to consider alternatives to determine if another option might better suit your needs. Here is a brief comparison of AARP and a few competitors.
| Feature | AARP | AMAC | AAA | Other Organizations |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Focus | Empowers 50+ through advocacy, info, and benefits. | Conservative alternative for 50+, strong political focus. | Roadside assistance, travel, insurance for all ages. | Specialized groups (e.g., National Council on Aging). |
| Cost | Approx. $16/year (first year lower with auto-renewal). | Varies by membership tier. | Varies by region and membership level. | Depends on the organization and services. |
| Political Stance | Nonpartisan, focuses on aging-related issues. | Openly conservative political leaning. | N/A (focused on automotive and travel). | Varies widely. |
| Membership | Open to 18+, benefits for 50+. | Open to 50+. | Open to all ages. | Depends on the group. |
How to Determine If a Membership is Worth It for You
To decide if a membership is necessary, you need to conduct a personal cost-benefit analysis. Consider the following steps:
- Calculate potential savings: Think about your spending habits. Do you travel frequently? Eat out often? How much could you save annually just on these activities? For example, a single discount on a rental car could easily pay for your annual fee.
- Factor in insurance: If you plan on purchasing auto, home, or supplemental health insurance through an AARP partner, the potential savings could be substantial and outweigh the membership cost alone.
- Consider the extras: Do you value the publications (AARP The Magazine and AARP Bulletin)? Are you interested in the online games, financial tools, and resources for caregivers? These intangible benefits can add significant value.
- Assess the advocacy: For many, supporting AARP's political advocacy for issues affecting older Americans is reason enough to join. Your membership strengthens their voice in Washington.
- Utilize the free household member: Remember that your membership includes a free secondary membership for another adult in your household, effectively doubling your benefit potential for the same price.
Maximizing Your AARP Experience
If you do decide to join, here are a few tips to ensure you get the most out of your membership:
- Download the AARP Now app: This app provides instant access to your digital membership card, local events, and savings near you.
- Explore the website: AARP's website offers a complete breakdown of benefits, including resources for career planning, retirement, and caregiving. Visit the AARP Member Benefits: All Offers A-Z page to find new discounts.
- Add a household member: Ensure your spouse or another adult in your home gets their free card. This expands your opportunities for savings.
- Check for temporary promotions: AARP frequently adds new, limited-time offers and coupons. Checking the website regularly can uncover extra savings.
- Enroll in AARP Rewards: Participate in online activities to earn and redeem points for gift cards and other rewards.
Conclusion: Making the Right Call for You
While is AARP membership necessary is a common question, there's no single universal answer. For some, the cost is easily offset by savings on travel, insurance, or dining, making it a sound financial investment. For others, the value lies in the informational resources and the organization's advocacy efforts. The key is to honestly assess your lifestyle and spending habits. By weighing the modest annual fee against the wide range of tangible and intangible benefits, you can make an informed decision that's right for you. If you're on the fence, consider trying it for a year; the low initial cost and potential savings make it a low-risk experiment.
