What has AARP accomplished? Major achievements and impact

Oct 24, 2025 2 min read •

senior care Healthy Aging advocacy

Founded in 1958 to help retired teachers secure affordable health insurance, AARP has grown into a powerful nonprofit advocacy group with nearly 38 million members. So, what has AARP accomplished for older Americans and their families throughout its long history? This article explores its decades of influence and key achievements.

Quick Summary

AARP has achieved numerous milestones in advocating for older Americans by protecting Social Security and Medicare benefits, lowering prescription drug costs, and fighting age discrimination. They also provide valuable resources and services through initiatives focusing on financial security, caregiving support, and fraud prevention.

Key Points

Key Achievements Overview: AARP's major accomplishments include instrumental roles in creating Medicare, protecting Social Security, combating age discrimination, developing the Fraud Watch Network, and offering free tax assistance and caregiver support. For details, refer to {Link: AARP's Timeline of Accomplishments https://www.aarp.org/about-aarp/history/milestones-timeline/}.

A History of Advocacy in Health and Economic Security

Since its inception, AARP has championed the health and financial well-being of older Americans, a core mission shaped by its founder, Ethel Percy Andrus. For a detailed overview of AARP's key achievements and advocacy efforts, including their role in Medicare's creation, supporting the Affordable Care Act, advocating for lower prescription drug costs, protecting Social Security, supporting older workers, and combating fraud through initiatives like the Fraud Watch Network, please visit the {Link: AARP's Timeline of Accomplishments https://www.aarp.org/about-aarp/history/milestones-timeline/}.

AARP's Foundation and Community Impact

The AARP Foundation is the charitable arm working to alleviate poverty for older adults. Their programs include workforce development, free tax preparation via Tax-Aide, legal advocacy, and disaster relief.

Comparing AARP's Legislative Accomplishments Across Eras


Feature	1960s-1980s	2000s-2020s
Focus	Establishing foundational social safety nets like Medicare and Social Security enhancements.	Protecting existing benefits while fighting emerging issues like high drug prices and financial scams.
Key Legislation	The Older Americans Act (1965), Employee Retirement Income Security Act (1974), Age Discrimination in Employment Act (1967), Federal Nursing Home Reform Act (1987).	The Affordable Care Act (2010), Inflation Reduction Act drug pricing provisions (2022), Protecting Older Workers Against Discrimination Act (POWADA) efforts.
Economic Efforts	Advocated for pension protections and Social Security cost-of-living adjustments.	Fought Social Security privatization and spearheaded state-level "Work and Save" retirement programs.
Consumer Protection	Initiated early programs addressing fraud and consumer safety.	Launched the comprehensive Fraud Watch Network and utilized technology to combat modern scams.

Conclusion: A Legacy of Action

AARP's history shows a pattern of adapting to the needs of older Americans. From the creation of Medicare to lowering drug costs, the organization has used its influence to shape policy and provide resources for the 50-plus demographic. The AARP Foundation's programs also address financial instability, social isolation, and other challenges. This combination of advocacy and community programs defines what has AARP accomplished over more than half a century. Learn more about their work on their official site {Link: AARP's Timeline of Accomplishments https://www.aarp.org/about-aarp/history/milestones-timeline/}.

Frequently Asked Questions

AARP successfully advocated for a law passed in 2022 that allows Medicare to negotiate lower prices for certain high-cost prescription drugs. The law also caps annual out-of-pocket costs for Medicare beneficiaries and limits the price of insulin.

AARP works tirelessly to protect Social Security by advocating for policies that ensure its financial security and opposing any efforts to reduce benefits or privatize the program. They lobby Congress and launch public awareness campaigns on the issue.

The AARP Fraud Watch Network is a program designed to help consumers spot, report, and avoid scams and identity theft. It provides information, resources, and access to a helpline staffed by trained volunteers.

Through the AARP Foundation Tax-Aide program, trained and IRS-certified volunteers provide free, in-person and virtual tax preparation and e-filing services. This helps older adults with low to moderate incomes secure refunds and tax credits.

AARP has been a long-time advocate against age discrimination. They supported the Age Discrimination in Employment Act (ADEA) and continue to work for stronger worker protections. They also offer career resources and a pledge program for age-friendly employers.

Yes, AARP supports family caregivers through its advocacy efforts, which have led to policies supporting caregivers, such as paid leave laws in various states. They also provide resources and support through their website and community programs.

The AARP Foundation is the charitable arm of AARP. It works to reduce poverty for and with older adults through a variety of programs focused on workforce development, legal advocacy, tax assistance, and fighting food insecurity.

References

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for informational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider regarding personal health decisions.