What is AARP?
AARP is a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization in the United States that empowers people aged 50 and older to choose how they live as they age. It provides advocacy, member benefits, discounts, resources, and a strong community for older adults.
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Full Name: American Association of Retired Persons
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Founded: 1958
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Founders: Dr. Ethel Percy Andrus and Leonard Davis
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Headquarters: Washington, D.C., USA
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Membership: Over 38 million members (as of 2024)
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Website: www.aarp.org
Core Mission
“To empower people to choose how they live as they age.”
AARP focuses on:
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Financial security
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Health and wellness
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Affordable healthcare
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Consumer rights
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Age-friendly communities
Key Services & Benefits
Membership Benefits
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Discounts on travel, dining, prescriptions, insurance, and entertainment
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Access to AARP publications, including AARP The Magazine and AARP Bulletin
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Health tools and caregiving resources
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Job and resume support for older adults
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Social Security and Medicare guides
Advocacy & Policy
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Lobbies for Medicare, Social Security, elder protection, and affordable medication
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Works on age discrimination, long-term care, and retirement savings
Financial Services
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Retirement calculators, budgeting tools, and fraud protection tips
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Partnerships with financial institutions for member-focused products
Insurance Offerings
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Auto/Home Insurance through The Hartford
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Health & Supplemental Insurance via UnitedHealthcare (AARP Medicare plans)
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Life Insurance policies
Travel & Entertainment
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Hotel discounts (e.g., Hilton, Wyndham, Choice Hotels)
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Car rental deals (Avis, Budget)
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Vacation packages and cruise deals
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Movie and event ticket savings
Cost of AARP Membership
| Plan | Cost | Includes Spouse? |
|---|---|---|
| 1-Year | $16/year | Yes (free) |
| 3-Year | $43 | Yes |
| 5-Year | $63 | Yes |
Discounts available for auto-renew or joining online.
Publications
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AARP The Magazine: The most widely circulated magazine in the U.S.
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AARP Bulletin: News and updates on politics, health, and senior issues.
Digital Tools
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Mobile app for accessing discounts, news, and events
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Online health tools (e.g., symptom checkers, memory games)
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Community forums and virtual events
Who Should Join AARP?
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Anyone 50+ looking for discounts, retirement help, or aging-related resources
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Caregivers seeking support tools
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People interested in policy advocacy for older adults
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Even under-50s can join and receive most member benefits
AARP – (FAQ)
1. Do I need to be retired to join AARP?
No. You just need to be age 50 or older. Anyone can join, and there’s no retirement requirement.
2. Can younger people join?
Yes, people under 50 can join as “associate members” and still get most benefits.
3. Is AARP a government agency?
No, it is a private nonprofit organization.
4. Is AARP worth it?
For most members, yes—the value of discounts alone (especially on travel, insurance, and prescriptions) often exceeds the membership fee.
5. How can I join AARP?
Visit aarp.org/join or call 1-888-OUR-AARP.