Extensive Discounts on Everyday Purchases
Many individuals find that the discounts and programs offered by AARP quickly offset the low annual membership fee. From everyday purchases to major expenses, members can unlock significant savings through partnerships with various brands and service providers.
Travel Savings
For avid travelers, an AARP membership can be particularly valuable. Discounts are available across numerous travel categories, helping to make trips more affordable. This includes savings on hotels, rental cars, and vacation packages through partners like Expedia.
Insurance and Health Benefits
Protecting your health and finances is a key focus, with AARP providing access to carefully selected insurance plans and wellness discounts.
Exclusive deals are available for auto and home insurance through The Hartford, though some benefits may be age-restricted. Members can also find savings on dental insurance through Delta Dental and on vision care at retailers like LensCrafters. Additionally, the AARP Prescription Discounts program can help members save on medications.
Shopping, Dining, and More
Members can find savings on a host of other goods and services, making daily life more budget-friendly. This includes dining discounts at popular chains, savings on wireless service, and access to exclusive entertainment deals.
Powerful Advocacy and Resources
Beyond direct financial savings, a major component of AARP's value proposition is its robust advocacy work and wealth of resources. As a nonpartisan organization, AARP champions social change and influences public policy on a national and state level.
Shaping National Policy
AARP advocates on behalf of its 38 million members on a variety of critical issues, ensuring the voices of older Americans are heard in government. Key areas of focus include protecting and strengthening Social Security and Medicare, lobbying to lower prescription drug costs, and fighting against age discrimination.
Educational and Financial Tools
Members gain access to a treasure trove of information designed to help them plan for and live a fulfilling life as they age. Resources cover career and finance topics, including job search tools and retirement planning guidance. The AARP Fraud Watch Network also provides resources to help members protect themselves from scams. Members also receive subscriptions to AARP The Magazine and the AARP Bulletin.
AARP Benefits vs. Other Member Groups: A Comparison
To help decide if an AARP membership is the right choice, comparing it to other options, like AAA, can be useful.
| Feature | AARP | AAA |
|---|---|---|
| Membership Age | Anyone 18+ can join; benefits for 50+. | No age restrictions; focus on road-related services. |
| Primary Focus | Advocacy for 50+, discounts, resources, community. | Roadside assistance, travel services, discounts. |
| Key Benefits | Travel, dining, insurance, health discounts, advocacy. | Roadside assistance, travel discounts, exclusive deals. |
| Advocacy | Strong political advocacy on issues like Medicare and Social Security. | Primary advocacy on road safety and travel-related matters. |
A Broader Sense of Community
For many, AARP provides a sense of connection and purpose through numerous ways for members to engage, learn, and give back to their communities.
The Low Cost and High Value Proposition
An AARP membership is surprisingly affordable, with a standard annual fee of just $20. Discounts can easily save more than the cost of membership. A single membership includes a free secondary membership for another adult in your household. Evaluating your potential usage of benefits is key to determining value.
Conclusion: Evaluating Your Personal Value
So, why would anyone join AARP? The motivation often boils down to a combination of valuable discounts, powerful advocacy, and community resources. The decision should align with your individual needs, lifestyle, and financial goals. The low cost and extensive benefits are a compelling package for many. To learn more, explore the AARP website(https://www.aarp.org/membership/benefits/is-aarp-membership-worth-it/).
