AARP Benefits That Change Retirement Planning

Key Takeaways

• AARP membership starts at age 50 and costs $16 annually with auto-renewal options
• Members gain access to discounts on travel, restaurants, healthcare, and insurance products
• AARP provides educational resources on retirement planning, Social Security, and Medicare
• The organization advocates for older Americans on issues like healthcare and financial security
• Membership includes free access to publications like AARP The Magazine and AARP Bulletin

AARP Membership Benefits and Discounts

AARP membership provides access to a wide range of discounts across multiple categories. These savings often exceed the annual membership fee, making it a valuable investment for many older adults.

Travel discounts represent one of the most popular benefit categories. Members receive reduced rates on hotel stays at major chains including Hilton, Wyndham, and Best Western. Rental car companies such as Avis, Budget, and Hertz offer up to 30% off for AARP members. Additionally, cruise lines and vacation packages feature special pricing for members planning leisure travel.

Restaurant discounts provide everyday savings opportunities. Members enjoy percentage-based discounts at participating locations including Denny's, Outback Steakhouse, and Bonefish Grill. These dining discounts typically range from 10-15% off the total bill, excluding alcohol and gratuity.

Retail savings extend to numerous national chains and online retailers. Members save on everything from eyeglasses at LensCrafters to flowers from 1-800-Flowers. Technology purchases, clothing, and home goods often come with special member pricing or promotional offers throughout the year.

Healthcare and Insurance Options

AARP partners with major insurance providers to offer members access to specialized healthcare and insurance products. These partnerships aim to address the unique needs of older adults navigating retirement and healthcare decisions.

Medicare supplement insurance (Medigap) policies through UnitedHealthcare represent one of AARP's most significant insurance offerings. These plans help cover costs not paid by Original Medicare, such as copayments, coinsurance, and deductibles. While these plans aren't necessarily less expensive than other Medigap options, they undergo AARP's vetting process and maintain stable pricing structures.

Prescription discount programs help members save on medication costs. The AARP Prescription Discount Card, available to all members, provides savings at over 66,000 pharmacies nationwide. This benefit can be particularly valuable for medications not covered by insurance or for individuals in the Medicare Part D coverage gap.

Vision and hearing care discounts address common age-related health concerns. Members receive reduced pricing on eye exams, glasses, contacts, and hearing aids through participating providers. These savings help make essential healthcare services more affordable, especially for those on fixed incomes.

Advocacy and Educational Resources

AARP's advocacy work represents a core aspect of its mission to help older Americans maintain independence, choice, and control. The organization maintains a strong presence in Washington D.C. and state capitals across the country, advocating for policies that benefit people aged 50 and older.

Social Security and Medicare protection rank among AARP's top advocacy priorities. The organization works to safeguard these programs' long-term sustainability while fighting against benefit reductions. Their policy experts analyze proposed legislation and provide recommendations to strengthen these critical safety nets for current and future retirees.

Financial security initiatives address the challenges many older adults face in retirement planning. AARP advocates for consumer protections against financial fraud, supports retirement savings programs, and promotes policies that help workers save adequately for their later years. Their Money Map program offers personalized guidance for managing finances in retirement.

Educational resources include webinars, workshops, and online tools covering topics from healthcare to technology. The AARP website features articles, videos, and interactive calculators to help members make informed decisions. Local chapters host in-person events where members can learn about relevant topics from qualified presenters.

Publications like AARP The Magazine and AARP Bulletin provide members with regular updates on health, money, work, retirement, and lifestyle topics. These publications reach millions of households and serve as trusted information sources for the 50+ population.

Community Connection and Volunteer Opportunities

AARP creates numerous pathways for older adults to remain engaged in their communities through volunteering and social connection. These opportunities help combat isolation while allowing members to contribute their skills and experience to meaningful causes.

AARP Foundation programs address issues like hunger, housing, income, and isolation among vulnerable older adults. Volunteers support initiatives such as Tax-Aide, which provides free tax preparation assistance to low and moderate-income taxpayers, with special attention to those 50 and older.

Local chapters organize social events, educational workshops, and community service projects. These gatherings foster connections among members who share common interests and concerns. Many chapters host regular meetings featuring guest speakers on topics relevant to the 50+ population.

The AARP Driver Safety Program utilizes volunteer instructors to help older drivers refresh their skills and adapt to age-related changes. This classroom and online course helps participants drive safely longer while potentially qualifying for insurance discounts.

Create The Good connects members with volunteer opportunities that match their interests and availability. This online network helps members find both short-term and ongoing ways to make a difference in their communities. Opportunities range from disaster relief to mentoring young people.