Are you a senior looking for ways to save money and access additional benefits? If so, then you may want to consider joining the American Association of Retired Persons (AARP). With over 38 million members, AARP is one of the largest and most influential organizations in the United States. In this article, we’ll take a look at what AARP is, what it offers, and whether or not it’s worth it to become a member.
What Is AARP?
AARP is a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping people aged 50 and over live their best lives. The organization was founded in 1958 by Ethel Percy Andrus and is now the largest membership organization in the United States. It offers a wide range of benefits and services to its members including discounts on travel, insurance, prescription drugs, entertainment, financial services, and more.
Benefits of AARP Membership
AARP membership comes with a variety of benefits designed to make life easier for seniors. These include:
Discounts & Savings
AARP members can take advantage of exclusive discounts on products and services from thousands of businesses nationwide. This includes discounts on hotels, car rentals, restaurants, retail stores, prescription drugs, vision care services, home security systems, and more.
Insurance Options
AARP offers a variety of insurance plans including health insurance plans for individuals and families as well as long-term care insurance options. In addition to traditional plans offered through AARP-endorsed companies such as UnitedHealthcare and Humana, AARP also offers Medicare Advantage plans through its own provider network.
Travel & Entertainment Benefits
AARP members can access exclusive discounts on airfare, cruises, hotels and car rentals through its travel partners such as Expedia and Priceline. Members can also enjoy discounts on movie tickets, theme park admission fees, theater tickets and more.
Financial Services & Planning
AARP provides members with access to financial advisors who can help them plan for retirement or manage their investments. In addition, members can take advantage of free financial seminars designed to help them make informed decisions about their finances.
Other Member Benefits
In addition to the above benefits, AARP also provides members with access to exclusive events such as educational seminars and health screenings. Members can also participate in volunteer opportunities both locally and internationally through AARP’s “Create The Good” program. Finally, members have access to an online community where they can connect with other members and share experiences.
How Much Does AARP Membership Cost?
A basic annual membership costs $16 per year while a two-year membership costs $28 per year. Additional family members can join at discounted rates while lifetime membership is available for $200 per person or $300 per couple.
Pros & Cons of AARP Membership
Before joining AARP it’s important to consider both the pros and cons of membership:
Pros:
• Access to exclusive discounts on products & services
• Insurance options for individuals & families
• Financial planning services & seminars
• Educational seminars & health screenings
• Volunteer opportunities through “Create The Good” program
• Online community for connecting with other members
Cons:
• Annual fee required for membership
• Some discounts may be limited or restricted
• Not all services/discounts are available in all areas
• Insurance plans may not be available in all states
Conclusion
In conclusion, becoming an AARP member can provide seniors with access to exclusive discounts on products & services as well as insurance options tailored specifically for those aged 50+. Additionally, members have access to financial planning services & seminars as well as educational seminars & health screenings that can help them stay informed on important topics related to aging gracefully. Ultimately the decision whether or not becoming an AARP member is worth it depends on individual needs but it is certainly worth considering if you are looking for ways to save money and access additional benefits as a senior citizen!
