AARP's Mission: Empowering Life After 50
AARP, originally the American Association of Retired Persons, is a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization dedicated to empowering Americans aged 50 and over to choose how they live as they age. Its mission extends far beyond simple member perks, encompassing advocacy, education, community, and support services. From safeguarding Social Security and Medicare to fighting age discrimination, AARP's work aims to improve the quality of life for its millions of members and older adults nationwide.
Influential Advocacy and Policy Work
AARP is a powerful and respected voice in Washington D.C. and in statehouses across the nation, lobbying for legislation and policies that benefit older Americans. This advocacy work is a cornerstone of what AARP actually does for seniors.
Safeguarding Social Security and Medicare
- Protecting Social Security: AARP works tirelessly to ensure the financial security of older Americans by urging Congress and the president to safeguard Social Security. They advocate for policies that strengthen the system for current and future retirees.
- Improving Health Care and Medicare: The organization is committed to protecting and enhancing Medicare. This includes advocating for expanded coverage, strengthening the program's stability, and reducing out-of-pocket costs for members.
Fighting High Prescription Drug Costs
For years, AARP has led the charge to make prescription drugs more affordable. Their advocacy efforts recently helped pass legislation allowing Medicare to negotiate lower drug prices and cap out-of-pocket costs, though the fight continues to bring prices down further.
Empowering Family Caregivers
Recognizing the critical role of family caregivers, AARP's advocacy has led to significant policy changes, including a national caregiving strategy and numerous state laws that support caregivers through initiatives like tax credits and family leave. They also provide resources through their foundation, such as the Paid4Care™ hub, to help demystify payment options.
Combating Age Discrimination
AARP champions the rights of older workers by advocating against age discrimination. This includes promoting legislation like the Protecting Older Workers Against Discrimination Act (POWADA) and running initiatives to change the perception of older adults in media and advertising.
Protecting Against Consumer Fraud
With fraud and scams targeting seniors at crisis levels, AARP's Fraud Watch Network provides information and resources to help older adults protect themselves. They also advocate for stronger laws to hold criminals accountable.
Extensive Member Benefits and Services
In addition to its advocacy, AARP provides a wide range of tangible benefits and services to its members, including discounts, educational resources, and practical tools.
Financial and Insurance Offerings
- Access to financial tools and calculators for retirement planning.
- Special rates on various insurance products, including health, life, auto, and homeowners.
- Help with tax preparation through the AARP Foundation Tax-Aide program for low-to-moderate-income seniors.
Health and Wellness Programs
- Access to exclusive discounts on prescription drugs, hearing aids, and vision care.
- The online 'Staying Sharp' program offers brain health assessments and exercises.
- Member discounts on gym memberships and wellness programs.
Community and Social Engagement
- Access to the AARP Virtual Community Center, offering online classes, lectures, and events.
- Resources and events focused on fighting social isolation, a significant issue for many older adults.
- Opportunities for volunteering in local communities through programs like Tax-Aide and Experience Corps.
Comparison of AARP Benefits: Member vs. Non-Member
| Feature | AARP Member Benefit | Non-Member Access |
|---|---|---|
| Prescription Discounts | Deeper discounts through Optum Rx, plus home delivery benefits. | Free discount card for use at participating pharmacies. |
| Insurance Products | Access to exclusive AARP-endorsed plans from providers like UnitedHealthcare and The Hartford. | No access to AARP-endorsed plans or special member rates. |
| AARP Publications | Bi-monthly subscription to AARP The Magazine and the AARP Bulletin. | No direct subscription access to these publications. |
| Advocacy Efforts | Members' collective voice and fees strengthen AARP's political clout. | Advocacy benefits all older Americans but non-members don't directly support the effort. |
| Online Content | Access to members-only games, articles, and learning resources. | Some public-facing content is available, but not member-exclusive material. |
Education, Information, and Resources
Beyond direct benefits, AARP provides a wealth of information to its members and the public through various channels:
- Publications: AARP The Magazine and the AARP Bulletin are among the largest circulation publications in the U.S., covering health, finance, lifestyle, and more.
- Online Content: The aarp.org website and AARP Now app offer thousands of articles, tools, and resources on everything from healthy recipes to retirement calculators.
- Work and Employment: Programs like 'Work for Yourself@50+' and job boards with 'age-friendly' employers help older adults stay competitive in the workforce.
- Fraud Prevention: The Fraud Watch Network is a crucial resource for combating scams, offering expert advice and alerts.
Conclusion: AARP's Comprehensive Support
Ultimately, What does AARP actually do for seniors? is a question with a multifaceted answer. While the member discounts are a popular draw, AARP's impact is far more profound. The organization serves as a powerful advocate for older Americans, tackling critical policy issues like Social Security, Medicare, and prescription drug costs. At the same time, it provides an array of practical resources and services, from financial counseling and tax assistance to caregiver support and fraud protection. By focusing on advocacy, information, and community, AARP empowers individuals over 50 to maintain their health, financial security, and independence, demonstrating its deep commitment to helping seniors navigate the complexities of aging successfully.
