AARP, formerly known as the American Association of Retired Persons, is one of the most recognized nonprofit organizations in the United States. Established in 1958, AARP’s mission is to empower people aged 50 and older to choose how they live as they age. With over 38 million members, AARP plays a vital role in advocating for the rights, well-being, and financial security of older Americans. From healthcare and financial planning to social engagement and community service, AARP continues to stand as a trusted voice for generations entering or living through retirement.
History and Foundation of AARP
The story of AARP begins with Dr. Ethel Percy Andrus, a retired high school principal in California. In the late 1940s, she discovered a retired teacher living in poverty because she could not afford healthcare. This shocking discovery inspired Dr. Andrus to create the National Retired Teachers Association (NRTA) in 1947. A decade later, she expanded her vision beyond educators, leading to the creation of AARP in 1958.
Dr. Andrus envisioned an organization that not only represented older Americans but also helped them find dignity, independence, and purpose in retirement. Over the years, AARP evolved from a small association to one of the largest and most influential advocacy organizations in the nation, shaping policies on healthcare, retirement security, and consumer protection.
AARP’s Mission and Core Values
AARP’s mission is centered on three main pillars: advocacy, information, and service. Its work aims to enhance the quality of life for people as they age, ensuring that every older adult has access to healthcare, financial stability, and meaningful opportunities to stay active in society.
AARP’s core values include:
- Impact: Making a measurable difference in the lives of members and society.
- Innovation: Constantly seeking new solutions to address the challenges of aging.
- Humanity: Ensuring compassion and respect in every interaction.
- Empowerment: Giving older Americans the tools they need to live life on their own terms.
Membership Benefits
One of the main reasons people join AARP is for its wide range of member benefits. These benefits cover areas such as travel, health, insurance, finance, entertainment, and shopping. Some of the most popular include:
- Health and Wellness: AARP offers members access to healthcare programs, vision and dental plans, prescription discounts, and wellness tools designed to promote healthy living.
- Financial and Retirement Resources: Members can access investment guides, retirement planning tools, and insurance products (such as auto, home, and life insurance) at competitive rates.
- Travel and Entertainment Discounts: AARP partners with major hotels, airlines, rental car agencies, and restaurants to offer exclusive discounts to members.
- Educational Resources: Members receive AARP The Magazine — America’s largest-circulation magazine — and the AARP Bulletin, which provide valuable insights into health, lifestyle, and policy changes that affect older adults.
- Community Involvement: AARP encourages members to volunteer in their communities through various local chapters and initiatives.
Advocacy and Social Impact
AARP is best known for its strong advocacy work at both the federal and state levels. The organization champions issues that directly affect older Americans, such as Social Security, Medicare, and prescription drug pricing. Its advocacy efforts have influenced key legislation aimed at improving healthcare access and retirement benefits for millions of Americans.
1. Healthcare Advocacy:
AARP actively supports efforts to protect Medicare, expand affordable healthcare access, and reduce the cost of prescription drugs. It often lobbies against proposals that threaten to cut benefits or increase out-of-pocket costs for seniors.
2. Retirement Security:
Through campaigns and policy recommendations, AARP pushes for stronger Social Security protections and promotes private savings programs, ensuring financial stability for future retirees.
3. Fighting Age Discrimination:
AARP’s legal foundation often engages in lawsuits or advocacy campaigns that address workplace age discrimination. It aims to ensure that older adults have equal employment opportunities.
4. Consumer Protection:
AARP educates members about scams, frauds, and financial exploitation targeting seniors. Through its Fraud Watch Network, the organization helps individuals stay informed and protected against emerging threats.
Community and Volunteering Programs
Beyond advocacy and benefits, AARP encourages community involvement through programs that foster connection and service.
AARP Foundation:
This charitable affiliate works to end senior poverty by focusing on four key areas — hunger, income, housing, and social connection. Through various programs, it provides food security, employment support, and housing assistance to vulnerable seniors.
AARP Experience Corps:
This intergenerational program engages adults aged 50+ as tutors to help students improve reading skills. It not only benefits children but also gives older volunteers a renewed sense of purpose and contribution.
Create the Good:
This initiative connects AARP members with volunteer opportunities that match their skills and interests, both locally and online.
Digital Presence and Technology Support
Recognizing the growing importance of technology, AARP has expanded its digital presence. Its website and mobile app offer easy access to member benefits, news updates, and online learning resources.
Additionally, AARP provides technology workshops and online tutorials that help older adults navigate smartphones, social media, and cybersecurity. The organization aims to close the digital gap among seniors and ensure they remain connected in a rapidly evolving world.
AARP and the Modern Aging Experience
AARP understands that aging today looks different than it did in previous generations. Many older adults continue to work, pursue hobbies, travel, and live active lives well into their 70s and beyond.
To reflect this modern view of aging, AARP promotes the concept of “disrupt aging” — challenging outdated stereotypes and celebrating the vibrancy and potential of people over 50. The organization emphasizes that age should never limit opportunities for growth, learning, or joy.
Criticism and Challenges
While AARP is widely respected, it has faced criticism over the years. Some critics argue that its close partnerships with insurance companies, particularly through AARP-branded products, create potential conflicts of interest. Others believe that the organization could do more to represent diverse populations within the older demographic.
Despite these challenges, AARP continues to maintain transparency in its operations and adapt to evolving member needs. Its long-standing credibility and widespread influence make it a trusted voice in aging policy and advocacy.
The Future of AARP
As the U.S. population continues to age — with an estimated 80 million Americans expected to be 65 or older by 2040 — AARP’s mission is more important than ever. The organization is expanding its reach by investing in digital tools, intergenerational programs, and global partnerships.
AARP’s focus for the future includes:
- Expanding affordable healthcare options.
- Strengthening retirement security for all.
- Promoting inclusive aging communities.
- Enhancing digital literacy among older adults.
Through these initiatives, AARP aims to ensure that every generation can age with dignity, security, and purpose.
Conclusion
AARP remains a beacon of empowerment and advocacy for older Americans. With a legacy spanning more than six decades, it continues to evolve alongside the people it serves — offering practical tools, strong representation, and a sense of community. Whether through health programs, policy advocacy, or volunteer work, AARP proves that aging is not about slowing down but about living fully, confidently, and meaningfully.