What Is An AARP

The American Association of Retired Persons, commonly known as AARP, is a vast organization formed in the United States with a focus on empowering people as they age. Founded in 1958 by Dr. Ethel Percy Andrus, AARP originally started as an initiative to address the needs and concerns of retired teachers. Over the decades, it has grown into one of the largest and most influential advocacy groups for older Americans, extending its membership to anyone aged 50 and over—still, retirees and non-retirees alike can join. The essence of AARP revolves around enhancing the quality of life for those over the age of 50 through various benefits, advocacy work, and resources. This article delves into the multifaceted organization, highlighting its benefits, history, and significance in modern society.

A Brief History of AARP

Origin and Growth

1. Founding: Dr. Ethel Percy Andrus, a retired educator, founded AARP to address the lack of health insurance for retired teachers. Her vision was to create an organization to enable seniors to live with dignity and purpose.

2. Early Focus: Initially, the organization primarily concentrated on health insurance, but steadily it expanded its mission to encompass a wide range of issues affecting older adults, including income security, affordable healthcare, and consumer protection.

3. Expansion: Since its inception, AARP has grown substantially. With a current membership surpassing 38 million people, it wields considerable influence on public policy and has a notable presence in shaping legislation affecting older citizens.

Key Developments

• Medigap and Medicare: AARP was instrumental in the development of Medigap policies and advocating for Medicare, both of which have been crucial in providing medical insurance coverage to older Americans.

• Partnerships and Collaboration: Over the years, AARP has partnered with various organizations to extend benefits and services to its members, reflecting its commitment to adapt to changing times and needs.

Benefits and Services of AARP

1. Health and Wellness:

   • AARP provides members with a variety of health-related resources, including access to supplemental health insurance plans, wellness programs, and medical advice to promote healthy living.

2. Discounts and Savings:

   • Members enjoy discounts on travel, dining, entertainment, and more. These perks are often tied to partnerships with businesses eager to cater to the senior demographic.

3. Information and Resources:

   • AARP publishes newsletters and magazines—like the AARP Bulletin and AARP The Magazine—offering insights on trends, lifestyle tips, and societal issues relevant to seniors.

4. Advocacy and Representation:

   • As a powerful advocacy group, AARP voices the concerns of older adults in legislative and policy-making processes. They lobby extensively for issues like Social Security, Medicare, and age discrimination.

5. Community and Volunteerism:

   • Encouraging community engagement, AARP offers numerous volunteer opportunities, fostering a sense of community and encouraging lifelong learning among its members.

How AARP Membership Works

Eligibility and Enrollment

• While AARP originally focused on retired persons, it now welcomes members as young as 50.
• Joining is simple: Prospective members can enroll online through the AARP website or through mailed applications.
• Annual membership fees are relatively affordable, giving access to a suite of benefits.

Use of Membership Benefits

1. Accessibility:

   • Members receive an AARP card, which is used to obtain discounts and to identify their membership status across programs.

2. Navigating Resources:

   • AARP provides comprehensive online resources, guiding members to apply or make use of particular benefits effectively.

Impact and Importance of AARP

Social and Economic Influence

• Legislative Impact: AARP's large membership base gives it significant leverage to influence policies that impact seniors at both federal and state levels.

• Research and Trends: Through studies and surveys, AARP stays ahead in understanding the evolving needs of older adults, thus shaping public discourse on aging.

A Cultural Staple

• In addition to its advocacy and services, AARP contributes to societal perceptions of aging, emphasizing positive aspects and breaking down stereotypes associated with older age.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What age do you have to be to join AARP?

AARP welcomes individuals aged 50 and older; however, membership is available even if you are not retired. No professional experience or prior affiliation is necessary for joining.

Does AARP membership provide insurance?

While AARP itself does not directly provide insurance, it partners with organizations like UnitedHealthcare to offer health insurance products tailored for their members, such as Medigap and Medicare Advantage plans.

How influential is AARP in political realms?

With millions of members, AARP is a formidable advocacy group. Its influence is seen in its ability to lobby for policies that benefit older adults, ensuring their needs and viewpoints are not overlooked in political decisions.

Is AARP only for Americans?

Though AARP is primarily an American organization, it acknowledges the global trend of aging populations. While membership benefits are mainly U.S.-focused, AARP also collaborates internationally on aging-related efforts through its involvement in the Global Council on Aging.

Conclusion: The Continued Relevance of AARP

In an ever-aging global population, AARP remains a cornerstone of support and advocacy for older adults. By continuing to evolve and address contemporary issues—like digital accessibility, financial planning in retirement, and health care reform—AARP not only influences policies but also enriches the lives of its members. As a prospective or current member, tapping into AARP's expansive resources can mean a more informed, engaged, and enriched approach to life post-50.

To further explore and delve into the resources AARP offers, consider visiting their official website for up-to-date information, benefits details, and pertinent articles on how they continue to make strides in supporting their diverse membership.