Understanding the Core Distinction: Organization vs. Application
To clarify the difference between AARP and AARP Now, it's essential to understand their distinct roles. At its core, AARP is the organization—a non-profit, non-partisan entity founded in 1958 with a mission to empower people 50 and older. It represents the comprehensive umbrella of all of AARP's activities, from national lobbying efforts and health insurance programs to publications and discounts.
In contrast, AARP Now is not a separate organization but is instead a mobile application developed by AARP. Think of it as a tool designed to provide a mobile-first, digital portal to many of the services and content that AARP offers. It allows members and non-members alike to stay connected to news, find events, and locate discounts directly from their smartphone or tablet.
The Comprehensive Scope of the AARP Organization
As an organization, AARP operates on many fronts. Its services and influence are far-reaching and not confined to a single medium. The organization's work includes:
- Advocacy and Lobbying: AARP is a powerful voice in Washington D.C. and at the state level, fighting for legislation on issues important to those 50 and older, such as Social Security, Medicare, and prescription drug costs.
- Publications: Members receive physical and digital editions of AARP The Magazine and the AARP Bulletin, which have some of the highest circulation rates in the United States.
- Benefits and Discounts: AARP negotiates a wide array of benefits for its members, including insurance, travel discounts, and savings on everyday purchases. These are available through various channels, including the website and app.
- Community Engagement: The organization sponsors community events, provides resources, and facilitates volunteer opportunities across the country.
- Affiliated Entities: AARP has several affiliated organizations, like the AARP Foundation, that focus on specific areas of community service and support.
The Focused Functionality of the AARP Now App
While the AARP organization is vast, the AARP Now app distills many of these offerings into a portable, user-friendly format. The app's primary functions include:
- Digital Membership Card: Members can instantly access and use a digital version of their membership card directly from the app.
- Personalized News and Content: The app provides a feed of news, articles, and videos curated by AARP's editorial team and personalized based on user interests.
- Local Event Discovery: Users can find and register for local and virtual events, such as workshops, fitness classes, and movies, right from the app.
- Location-Based Benefits: The app uses location services to show users nearby discounts and benefits on a map, making it easy to save money while out and about.
- AARP Rewards Program: It's the hub for the AARP Rewards program, where users can earn points by engaging with the app, tracking fitness goals, and completing activities.
- Digital Publications: The app provides mobile access to digital editions of AARP The Magazine and the AARP Bulletin for members.
Key Differences at a Glance
To make the distinction even clearer, consider the following comparison table. It highlights the main differences between the overarching AARP organization and the specific functions of the AARP Now mobile app.
| Feature | AARP (The Organization) | AARP Now (The App) |
|---|---|---|
| Nature | Non-profit, advocacy, and membership organization | Free mobile application for iOS and Android |
| Primary Platform | Multi-platform, including website, publications, and state offices | A digital interface designed for mobile devices |
| Availability | Available to anyone 50 or older for membership, though anyone can join | Free to download and use for both members and non-members |
| Content Access | Access to all AARP benefits, publications, and advocacy efforts | Provides mobile access to a selection of content, events, and benefits |
| Membership Requirement | Paid membership is required for full access to premium benefits and publications | App can be used by non-members, but some premium content is restricted to members |
| Functionality | Broad range of functions including legislative advocacy, insurance, and large-scale services | Streamlines access to news, rewards, events, and location-based discounts for on-the-go users |
Membership and Access: A Critical Point of Overlap
One area that can cause confusion is the relationship between AARP membership and the AARP Now app. While AARP Now is free to download and available to everyone, some of its most valuable features, like the full digital library of publications and certain member-exclusive content, are locked and require a paid AARP membership to access. Think of the app as a storefront: anyone can browse, but only members can enter the exclusive section and enjoy all the perks. The app also makes it easy to join or renew a membership directly.
For non-members, the app still offers a wealth of information, such as news articles and access to the free AARP Rewards program, which allows users to earn points for engaging with content and tracking activities. This offers a great way for individuals to experience some of AARP's benefits and decide if they want to invest in a full membership.
Why The Distinction Matters
For many, the distinction is subtle but important. AARP represents the entirety of the organization's legacy, influence, and broad services, many of which operate outside of the digital realm. AARP Now is a modern, convenient extension of that legacy, designed for the digital age and focused on providing a personalized, mobile experience. Understanding this difference helps you choose the right method for accessing the information and benefits you need. If you are looking for in-depth policy research or extensive member discounts, the AARP website remains the central hub. If you want quick access to your digital card, local events, or daily news on the go, the AARP Now app is the perfect tool.
For more information on AARP's full range of services, including their comprehensive member benefits, visit their official website AARP: Membership Benefits, Discounts, and Resources.
Conclusion: A Complementary Relationship
Ultimately, AARP and AARP Now are not competing entities but rather complementary parts of the same ecosystem. AARP is the foundational organization with a long history of serving and advocating for older adults. AARP Now is the modern, mobile-focused application that serves as a powerful digital extension of the organization's mission, making access to news, benefits, and rewards more immediate and convenient than ever. By understanding their individual roles, you can best leverage the resources available to you, whether you are a member or simply interested in AARP's offerings.
