AARP's Mission and Core Principles
At its core, AARP is an organization dedicated to empowering Americans aged 50 and older to live their best lives as they age. AARP's mission is pursued through three key pillars: information, advocacy, and service. It leverages the collective power of its millions of members, both as a unified voice in Washington, D.C., and as a significant consumer group in the marketplace. While its name implies a focus on "retired persons," the organization formally changed its name from "American Association of Retired Persons" to simply "AARP" in 1999 to reflect its broader membership, many of whom are still in the workforce or not yet retired.
The Collective Purpose
By uniting its vast membership, AARP amplifies the voice of older Americans on critical issues. This approach allows the organization to tackle problems that individuals might struggle with alone, such as rising healthcare costs, threats to Social Security, and consumer fraud. This collective purpose is a driving force behind its work to create positive social change and ensure dignity and independence for all as they age.
Powerful Advocacy at All Levels
One of the most significant functions of AARP is its extensive advocacy and lobbying work at the national, state, and local levels. The organization fights for legislation and policies that directly impact the financial and health security of people 50-plus. Their non-partisan stance means they work with policymakers from both sides of the aisle to advance their priorities. AARP's advocacy covers a wide range of topics:
- Health Security: AARP tirelessly advocates for protecting Medicare, ensuring accessible and affordable healthcare, and fighting for lower prescription drug costs. For instance, their efforts were instrumental in advocating for the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022, which included provisions to enable Medicare to negotiate drug prices and cap out-of-pocket costs.
- Financial Stability: Protecting Social Security from privatization and ensuring its long-term solvency is a top priority. They also advocate for policies that promote retirement savings, support family caregivers with tax credits and other benefits, and fight against consumer fraud and scams that target older adults.
- Age Discrimination: AARP actively works to combat age discrimination and bias in the workplace and in media representation. They promote the value of older workers and advocate for laws like the Protecting Older Workers Against Discrimination Act.
- Community Advocacy: On a local level, AARP works with its state offices and volunteers to push for age-friendly communities that offer affordable housing, accessible transportation, and vital community services.
Providing Valuable Member Benefits
In exchange for an affordable annual membership fee, AARP provides members access to a vast network of discounts, products, and services. These benefits are carefully selected through third-party providers and cover many aspects of daily life. The savings often far outweigh the cost of membership, making it a popular choice for many.
Key Areas of Member Savings
- Travel: Discounts on car rentals, hotels, cruises, and vacation packages are a major draw for members who want to see the world for less.
- Insurance: AARP licenses its name to a variety of insurance products, including auto and home insurance through The Hartford, life insurance from New York Life, and a range of Medicare plans through UnitedHealthcare.
- Health & Wellness: Beyond insurance, members can save on vision and dental plans, as well as get discounts on prescriptions through the AARP Prescription Discounts program.
- Shopping & Dining: AARP partners with numerous retailers and restaurants to offer members savings on everything from groceries and tech to dining out at popular chains.
Comparison of Selected Member Benefits
| Benefit Category | Example Providers | Typical Member Savings | Notable Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Auto Insurance | The Hartford | Average member savings of $577/year | Defensive driver discounts, accident forgiveness |
| Hotels & Resorts | Expedia, Hilton, Wyndham | Up to 25% off best available rates | Discounts often include late checkout |
| Prescription Drugs | CVS, Walgreens, Walmart | Deeper discounts via Rx Card | Can be used by anyone, but members get extra perks |
| Restaurants | Denny's, Outback Steakhouse | 10–15% off check | Discounts vary by location and offer |
Empowering with Information and Resources
AARP is a trusted source of news, information, and research for older Americans. Their publications, including AARP The Magazine and AARP Bulletin, are among the largest-circulating consumer publications in the country, keeping members informed on relevant topics.
Educational Programs and Content
- AARP Driver Safety: This program offers courses to refresh driving skills and teaches proven techniques for staying safe behind the wheel, which can sometimes lead to an insurance discount.
- Work & Jobs: AARP's website features a job board for older job seekers and resources to help with financial planning and retirement savings.
- Fraud Watch Network: The organization provides crucial information and alerts to help people avoid scams and fraud.
- Staying Sharp: An online platform dedicated to helping people improve their brain health through assessments, games, and articles.
Engaging Communities and Volunteering
Beyond advocacy and benefits, AARP fosters a strong sense of community and provides meaningful volunteer opportunities. The AARP Foundation is a separate charitable organization that works to address the root causes of poverty for older adults.
Volunteer and Community Initiatives
- Tax-Aide: A program where trained volunteers help low- and moderate-income individuals file their taxes for free.
- Experience Corps: This program engages volunteers aged 50 and over to tutor children in reading, providing support to students in elementary schools.
- Local Events: State and local offices host a variety of events, workshops, and community-building activities.
For more detailed information on their mission and impact, visit the AARP official website.
Conclusion
In summary, the American Association of Retired Persons (AARP) is a multifaceted organization that serves its members and the broader community of Americans 50 and older. Through tireless advocacy on issues like healthcare and Social Security, offering a wide range of discounted products and services, and providing valuable resources and information, AARP empowers older Americans to choose how they live as they age. It leverages its significant size and influence to promote social change and ensure dignity and purpose for all its members.
