The Three Pillars of AARP's Work
Founded in 1958, AARP has evolved into a powerhouse organization supporting Americans aged 50 and over. Its mission is to empower its members and the wider community to live their best lives as they age. This is achieved through three core areas of focus: advocacy, member benefits, and charitable work via the AARP Foundation.
Pillar 1: A Powerful Voice in Advocacy
AARP is a vocal and influential force, lobbying at the federal, state, and local levels to protect and advance the rights and interests of older adults. This work ensures that the needs of the 50-plus community are at the forefront of policy debates.
Protection and reform of Social Security and Medicare
AARP works tirelessly to safeguard the financial security of retired Americans by advocating for policies that strengthen Social Security and protect Medicare from cuts. This includes fighting for comprehensive, affordable healthcare and reduced prescription drug costs.
Fighting age discrimination
Through education, legal support, and advocacy, AARP combats ageism in the workplace and broader society. Initiatives focus on promoting positive images of aging and creating more age-friendly hiring practices.
Supporting family caregivers
Recognizing the critical role of family caregivers, AARP advocates for policies that provide support, such as tax credits and family leave. The organization also offers resources to help caregivers navigate their complex responsibilities.
Pillar 2: Exclusive Member Benefits
For a small annual membership fee, individuals gain access to a wide variety of discounts, services, and information. These benefits are sourced through third-party providers and are tailored to the needs of the 50-plus demographic. A free second membership is also included for a household member.
- Insurance: Members can access a wide range of AARP-branded insurance options through UnitedHealthcare and The Hartford, including supplemental health, life, dental, vision, home, and auto policies.
- Travel: Discounts are available on hotels, car rentals (like Avis and Budget), cruises, and vacation packages through the AARP Travel Center powered by Expedia.
- Health and Wellness: Beyond insurance, members receive discounts on prescriptions, eyewear, and hearing aids. They can also access online fitness resources and programs like Staying Sharp for brain health.
- Technology and Finance: Benefits include discounts on cell phone plans (Consumer Cellular, AT&T), identity theft protection, and various financial products and services.
- Entertainment and Shopping: Members can save money at restaurants (Denny's, Outback Steakhouse), access exclusive online games, free virtual concerts and movie screenings, and shop with discounts at various retailers.
Pillar 3: AARP Foundation and Community Support
As AARP's charitable arm, the AARP Foundation focuses on reducing poverty among older adults through grants and direct assistance. The foundation's services are available to those who qualify based on need and do not require an AARP membership.
- Tax-Aide: A free tax preparation and filing service provided by IRS-certified volunteers for low- and moderate-income individuals.
- Workforce Development: Programs like BACK TO WORK 50+ and the Senior Community Service Employment Program (SCSEP) provide job training and guidance for older workers seeking employment.
- Benefits Access: The foundation helps struggling seniors access eligible benefits like SNAP (food stamps) and Medicare Savings Programs.
- Fraud Watch Network: A free resource for everyone, this network provides alerts and information to help people spot and avoid scams and identity theft.
- Local Assistance Directory: An online tool to help individuals find local programs for food, housing, health, and employment services.
Member Benefits vs. Foundation Support: A Comparison
| Feature | Member Benefits | AARP Foundation |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Goal | Provide value and savings to paying members via discounts and products. | Reduce poverty among older adults through charitable programs and grants. |
| Eligibility | Open to anyone over age 18, with primary focus on 50+. Membership fee required. | Primarily for low- to moderate-income individuals over 50. Services are free and do not require membership. |
| Examples | Discounts on insurance, travel, and dining; access to AARP publications and games. | Free tax preparation, job training, assistance accessing food and health benefits, fraud prevention. |
| Primary Funding | Membership dues and royalties from third-party products. | Donations, grants, and charitable contributions. |
Conclusion: More Than Just Discounts
The answer to What does AARP help people with? is comprehensive. It addresses the diverse needs of older Americans across financial, health, and social spectrums. Through its relentless advocacy, extensive member benefits, and impactful charitable foundation work, AARP provides a powerful toolkit of resources, support, and protection. From fighting for federal policy changes to offering discounts on everyday essentials and helping individuals navigate financial challenges, AARP serves as a vital ally for millions. By understanding the breadth of these programs, people can fully leverage the opportunities available to them, leading to a more secure and fulfilling life as they age.
For more information on the various programs and resources available, you can explore the AARP Foundation's official resources(https://www.aarp.org/aarp-foundation/find-help/).
