AARP Benefits

What Are AARP Benefits?

The American Association of Retired Persons (AARP) is a nonprofit organization founded in 1958, which focuses on issues affecting individuals aged 50 and over. AARP is well-known for advocating for its members in various areas such as healthcare, employment opportunities, and financial security. One of the main reasons individuals join AARP is for the array of benefits it offers. In this detailed response, we will explore the comprehensive benefits available to AARP members, ensuring a thorough understanding of what membership entails.

Membership Overview

AARP offers two types of memberships: individual and household. An individual membership includes one member, while a household membership covers two people living at the same address. Both memberships provide the same benefits, with a special focus on cost savings and access to resources and community engagement opportunities.

Health and Wellness Benefits

1. Insurance Products:

   • AARP has partnered with insurance companies to offer members access to various types of insurance. This includes health, dental, vision, life, and long-term care insurance. A significant partnership with UnitedHealthcare provides members with exclusive access to AARP-branded Medicare Supplement Insurance Plans.

2. Prescription Discounts:

   • AARP members can benefit from discounted prescription medications through the AARP Prescription Discounts program, offered by OptumRx. This can be an invaluable resource for those without comprehensive prescription drug coverage, potentially saving members significant amounts on necessary medications.

3. Health and Wellness Resources:

   • The organization offers numerous resources on their website and in their publications to educate members about health conditions and wellness practices. Topics range from disease prevention and management to nutritional advice and fitness tips. AARP's Staying Sharp program, for example, provides cognitive health assessments and brain health resources.

Financial and Retirement Planning

1. Retirement Tools:

   • AARP offers a host of retirement planning tools to help members better understand and prepare for their retirement years. This includes calculators and resources for social security benefits, retirement savings, and managing expenses in retirement.

2. Discounts on Financial Services:

   • Through various partners, AARP offers discounts on financial services such as tax preparation, fraud protection, and even investment services. Their AARP Auto Insurance Program, presented by The Hartford, is highly regarded, offering members savings on auto insurance.

3. Identity Theft Protection:

   • AARP partners with providers like Experian to offer identity theft protection services at a discounted rate. This is increasingly relevant given the growing concerns around digital security and personal data breaches.

Travel and Leisure

1. Exclusive Travel Discounts:

   • One of the most popular benefits of AARP membership is the extensive travel discounts available. Members enjoy savings on hotel stays, rental cars, cruises, and even vacation packages. A notable partnership is with Expedia, offering special rates and deals on travel bookings.

2. Vacation Planning:

   • AARP provides resources to help members plan their vacations. This includes information about destinations, travel tips, and advice on saving money while traveling. The travel section on the AARP website is packed with articles and guides that cater specifically to the interests and needs of older travelers.

3. Dining and Entertainment Discounts:

   • Apart from travel discounts, members can enjoy savings at numerous dining establishments and entertainment venues, including theater and concert tickets, making it easier to maintain an active and enjoyable lifestyle.

Advocacy and Community

1. Advocacy Work:

   • AARP actively lobbies on behalf of its members regarding issues like social security, Medicare, and other policies affecting older Americans. This advocacy ensures that the needs and concerns of members are represented at government levels.

2. Community Engagement:

   • AARP creates community opportunities such as volunteering and participating in local events. Through initiatives like AARP Foundation Experience Corps, members can volunteer to help children with reading or take part in local advocacy efforts.

3. Educational Resources:

   • AARP provides numerous educational resources to keep members informed and engaged. From workshops to webinars, AARP connects members with learning opportunities in financial planning, technology use, and personal safety.

Discounts and Member Offers

1. Retail and Technology Discounts:

   • AARP members receive valuable discounts at various retail stores and on technology products. This includes discounts on eyewear at LensCrafters and Pearle Vision, as well as savings on mobile phone plans and electronics.

2. Home and Vehicle Discounts:

   • Members can take advantage of special offers for home security systems, home improvement services, and more through partnerships with companies like ADT and Realogy Advantage Network. Additionally, discounts on vehicle purchases and maintenance are available.

3. Magazine and Resources:

   • Members receive AARP The Magazine, which covers a wide range of topics important to mature readers, such as health, finance, and lifestyle. The magazine provides valuable insights and stories that align with the interests of older adults.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is there an age requirement to join AARP?

AARP primarily serves those aged 50 and older. However, there is no age requirement to join. Anyone, regardless of age, can become a member and access the benefits.

Are AARP discounts significant enough to justify the membership cost?

Membership costs are relatively low, often around $16 per year, with discounts for multi-year commitments. Given the breadth of discounts and benefits available, many find that the savings, particularly on travel and prescriptions, quickly outweigh the cost of membership.

How do I access AARP benefits?

Once you become a member, you will receive a membership card that can be used to access discounts and services. Additionally, members can log in to the AARP website to find information on claiming various benefits.

Can I give AARP membership as a gift?

Yes, AARP allows you to gift memberships to friends or family. This can be a thoughtful gift option, especially for those nearing retirement age or those interested in the benefits offered.

What should I know about AARP’s advocacy efforts?

AARP is committed to advocacy work focused on the interests of aging Americans. Their efforts span healthcare reform, economic security, and consumer protection, ensuring members' voices are heard in policy discussions.

Conclusion

AARP membership provides a wealth of benefits that can significantly enhance the lives of individuals over 50. From health and financial services to travel and leisure discounts, the extensive offerings cater to a wide range of interests and needs. Moreover, AARP's commitment to advocacy ensures that members' concerns are represented at higher levels, supporting policies that favor individuals in this age group. For anyone considering joining, the practical benefits, combined with the low membership cost, make AARP a valuable resource and community for older Americans. For additional information and detailed guidance on membership benefits, the AARP website is a comprehensive resource that members should explore fully.