AARP Advocacy: Protecting and Strengthening Benefits
For those aged 50 and over, AARP is a powerful advocate at the national, state, and local levels, working tirelessly to influence legislation and policy to protect the interests of older Americans. Their advocacy priorities include some of the most critical issues facing seniors today.
Safeguarding Social Security
AARP is a long-time champion for the preservation of Social Security. Its advocacy work includes urging Congress to protect the financial stability of the program for current and future generations. Through campaigns like "You've Earned a Say," AARP encourages open, nonpartisan dialogue about strengthening Social Security and Medicare.
Improving Healthcare and Lowering Prescription Drug Costs
Another major focus is ensuring access to quality, affordable healthcare. AARP advocates for policies that strengthen Medicare and expand coverage. A recent success was helping to pass legislation that allows Medicare to negotiate lower drug prices and cap out-of-pocket costs for beneficiaries. However, AARP continues to fight for further reductions, challenging pharmaceutical companies and advocating for fair drug pricing laws nationwide.
Empowering Family Caregivers
Recognizing the vital role of family caregivers, AARP works to provide them with crucial support. Their advocacy has resulted in significant policy advancements, including a national caregiving strategy and numerous state laws designed to support caregivers with measures like tax credits and family leave. The AARP Foundation also offers practical resources like the Paid4Care™ hub to demystify paid family caregiving.
Member Products, Services, and Discounts
Beyond advocacy, AARP offers a wide array of products, services, and discounts through third-party providers, available to its more than 38 million members. These benefits address key areas of senior life, from finances and health to travel and entertainment.
Financial Services and Fraud Protection
AARP members can access resources for managing their finances, protecting their assets, and combating fraud. This includes:
- Financial health check-ups
- Identity theft protection services
- Discounts on tax preparation services, including free tax assistance via the AARP Foundation's Tax-Aide program
- The Fraud Watch Network, which helps arm seniors with the information needed to avoid scams
Health and Wellness Benefits
Recognizing the importance of maintaining health as we age, AARP provides:
- Supplemental health insurance options
- Discounts on prescriptions, vision care, and hearing aids
- The Staying Sharp brain health program
- Access to fitness and wellness programs and gym membership discounts
Lifestyle and Entertainment Discounts
To encourage an active and fulfilling lifestyle, AARP offers discounts on a variety of goods and services, including:
- Dining out at participating restaurants
- Travel deals on hotels, rental cars, and cruises
- Shopping and groceries
- Movies and other entertainment venues
AARP Foundation: Charitable Work for Low-Income Seniors
The AARP Foundation, AARP's charitable affiliate, works specifically to reduce poverty among older adults. By collaborating with other organizations and through its own programs, the Foundation helps vulnerable seniors access essential benefits.
Key areas of focus for the AARP Foundation:
- Food Security: Supports programs that help low-income older adults enroll in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP).
- Income: Provides job training and skills enhancement to increase older adults' financial stability.
- Housing: Offers assistance to help seniors navigate housing challenges.
- Social Isolation: Addresses the problem of social isolation, a significant challenge for many seniors.
- Legal Advocacy: Acts as an advocate in court nationwide to protect the rights of those 50 and older.
Comparison of AARP's Offerings for Seniors
| Feature | AARP Membership | AARP Foundation | AARP Advocacy |
|---|---|---|---|
| Focus | Member benefits and discounts, resources | Charitable work, poverty reduction, direct assistance | Policy influence, protecting senior rights |
| Eligibility | Open to anyone 18+ (benefits aimed at 50+) | Focused on low-income individuals over 50 | Benefits all Americans aged 50+ |
| Cost | Annual membership fee required | No cost for services; funded by donors | Funded through membership and other revenues |
| Examples | Discounts on insurance, travel, shopping, etc. | Free tax prep, benefit enrollment assistance | Lobbying for lower drug prices, protecting Social Security |
| Primary Goal | Provide value to members through savings and resources | Combat poverty and address specific needs | Influence public policy and protect benefits |
The Longevity Economy and Innovation
AARP also works to redefine aging by focusing on the contributions of older adults to the economy and society. The organization publishes reports on the "Longevity Economy," highlighting the economic impact of the 50-plus population. Through initiatives like the AARP Innovation Labs, it works to identify and support products and services that can help improve the lives of older Americans.
For example, the "Staying Sharp" program, with its brain health assessment, is one innovative way AARP helps individuals slow cognitive decline. Similarly, the support for the Dementia Discovery Fund showcases a commitment to advancing research into critical health issues. This forward-thinking approach ensures that AARP remains a relevant and vital resource in an aging society.
Conclusion
In sum, AARP's efforts for seniors are multi-faceted, encompassing powerful political advocacy, charitable outreach through its foundation, and a wide range of tangible benefits and resources for its members. By addressing issues from financial insecurity and healthcare costs to social isolation and age discrimination, AARP works to ensure a better quality of life for Americans aged 50 and over. Whether through lobbying in Washington, offering free tax assistance, or providing discounts on everyday needs, AARP's activities cover a broad spectrum aimed at empowering seniors and their families. You can explore the full range of AARP's offerings and mission at AARP.org.
