AARP's Core Mission and Founding
AARP was founded in 1958 by retired high school principal Ethel Percy Andrus, with a mission to promote the independence, dignity, and purpose of older people. The organization was born out of a specific need—to address the difficulty older Americans faced in securing affordable health insurance. Andrus, recognizing this gap, worked to establish the first group health insurance plan for people over 65, and from there, AARP grew into the multifaceted organization it is today. Its mission extends beyond insurance to enhancing the quality of life for its members and fostering a positive image of aging.
The Birth of a Powerful Advocate
From its inception, AARP quickly established itself as an authoritative voice for the 50+ demographic. It expanded its services and began to leverage its growing membership for political influence. This advocacy has led to significant policy changes and protection for seniors over decades, impacting everything from healthcare legislation to age discrimination laws. AARP operates as a nonpartisan organization, influencing policy by working with all levels of government and basing its actions on its members' stated priorities.
Influential Advocacy and Political Power
AARP is a formidable force in Washington D.C. and state capitals across the country, known for its extensive lobbying on behalf of its members. The organization's power is rooted in its massive and engaged membership, giving it considerable leverage when speaking on issues like Social Security, Medicare, and prescription drug costs.
Fighting for Social Security and Medicare
- Social Security Protection: AARP is a fierce defender of Social Security, consistently lobbying Congress to protect and strengthen benefits for current and future retirees. This includes opposing proposals that could privatize or undermine the program. Their powerful grassroots campaigns, fueled by millions of members, can mobilize large-scale opposition to unfavorable legislation.
- Medicare Advocacy: For decades, AARP has been a key player in shaping Medicare policy. It has advocated for policies to ensure the program's financial stability, expand coverage, and lower out-of-pocket costs for beneficiaries. A notable achievement was its support for the creation of Medicare Part D.
- Prescription Drug Costs: The high cost of prescription drugs is a constant concern for older Americans. AARP has been at the forefront of this fight, advocating for measures that allow Medicare to negotiate lower drug prices and cap out-of-pocket expenses for members.
Combatting Other Critical Issues
Beyond major federal programs, AARP's advocacy addresses a wide range of issues affecting the lives of older adults and their families:
- Fighting Fraud: The AARP Fraud Watch Network is a well-known program dedicated to arming individuals with the information needed to spot, avoid, and report scams. They advocate for stronger laws to hold scammers accountable.
- Empowering Family Caregivers: AARP provides resources and advocates for policies that support the nation's family caregivers, leading to state and federal laws providing tax credits, leave, and other forms of support.
- Promoting Workplace Equity: Through advocacy, legal support, and education, AARP works to fight age discrimination in the workplace and promote the value of experienced workers.
Member Benefits, Discounts, and Resources
While its political advocacy is central to its identity, many members know AARP for the tangible benefits and discounts that come with membership. Membership is open to anyone over 18, though many age-related perks are designed for those 50 and over.
A World of Discounts and Savings
AARP partners with numerous companies to offer members exclusive discounts and offers. These are widely promoted and range across several categories:
- Travel: Savings on hotels, rental cars, flights, and cruises are a major perk, often advertised heavily to members.
- Shopping and Restaurants: Discounts at grocery stores, pharmacies (like Walgreens), and a variety of restaurants are available to members and are a popular benefit.
- Insurance: Through partnerships with providers like The Hartford and New York Life, AARP offers members access to a range of insurance products, including auto, home, and life insurance.
- Technology and Wireless: Deals on cell phone plans and technology products are also available to help members stay connected.
Publications and Media
AARP produces some of the most widely circulated publications in the country, keeping its members informed and engaged. AARP's media presence is a key part of what it is known for, helping to influence public perception of aging and provide vital information.
- AARP The Magazine: This is the largest circulation magazine in the world and covers a broad range of topics, including health, finance, travel, and entertainment.
- AARP Bulletin: Focusing more on news and advocacy, this publication keeps members up-to-date on key issues and legislative updates.
A Comparison of AARP's Offerings
To better understand the scope of what AARP provides, here is a comparison of its advocacy versus its member services.
| Feature | Advocacy and Mission | Member Benefits and Services |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Goal | To influence policy and legislation on behalf of older Americans. | To provide tangible value and savings to individual members. |
| Public Visibility | Often involves large-scale campaigns, grassroots mobilization, and lobbying in Washington. | Promoted through publications, the website, and discount marketing efforts. |
| Key Issues | Social Security, Medicare, prescription drug costs, elder fraud, caregiving support, and age discrimination. | Insurance (auto, home, life), travel discounts (hotels, rentals), shopping and restaurant discounts. |
| Impact | National, and potentially life-changing, policy shifts. Protects and expands rights for millions. | Individual savings and access to resources. Can save members money on day-to-day expenses. |
| Mechanism | Lobbying, public awareness campaigns, and research from its Public Policy Institute. | Corporate partnerships, media production, and online resource centers. |
AARP's Charitable Arm and Future Focus
The AARP Foundation is a charitable affiliate that works to reduce poverty for older adults through direct services, grantmaking, and legal advocacy. Programs like Tax-Aide, where IRS-certified volunteers assist older Americans with their tax returns, are a core part of its charitable mission. This work extends the organization's mission to those in need, regardless of membership status.
Looking forward, AARP is focused on redefining aging through its "Disrupt Aging" initiative. This effort aims to challenge outdated perceptions and provide resources that empower older adults to choose how they live and age. It also invests in innovation to find new solutions for the 50+ population through initiatives like the AARP Innovation Fund. For more information on the AARP's overall structure and activities, you can read more on Ballotpedia.
