AARP

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AARP Headquarters

AARP volunteers Miami 2015

AARP (formerly the American Association of Retired Persons) is a United States-based interest group focusing on issues affecting those over the age of fifty. Founded in 1958 by Ethel Percy Andrus, a retired educator from California, and Leonard Davis, later the founder of the Colonial Penn Group of insurance companies, AARP has grown to become one of the most powerful lobbying groups in the United States. Its mission is to empower people to choose how they live as they age. With a membership of approximately 38 million, it is one of the largest membership organizations in the United States.

History

AARP was established in 1958 by Ethel Percy Andrus and Leonard Davis. Andrus, a retired high school principal, had previously founded the National Retired Teachers Association (NRTA) in 1947 to promote her philosophy of productive aging, and to offer health insurance to retired teachers. After realizing the need for a similar organization that could cover all Americans over 50, she expanded her efforts to create AARP. The organization has been influential in advocating for social change through lobbying, litigation, and voter mobilization.

Mission and Activities

AARP's mission is to empower people to choose how they live as they age. The organization works to fulfill this mission through a wide range of activities, including advocacy on legislative, consumer, and legal issues; publishing information and resources; sponsoring community programs and services; and offering a variety of products and services to its members. Key issues of focus include healthcare, employment and income security, retirement planning, and consumer protection.

Membership

Membership in AARP is open to all individuals who are 50 years of age or older, regardless of employment status. Members receive access to a wide range of benefits, including AARP The Magazine, discounts on travel and leisure activities, and a voice in Washington, D.C., and in state capitals across the country. AARP also offers members a range of insurance products, financial services, and other services designed to meet the needs of older Americans.

Advocacy

AARP is known for its powerful lobbying efforts at both the state and federal levels. The organization advocates on behalf of its members and all older Americans, striving to influence policy decisions that will have a direct impact on their lives. AARP has been a key player in debates over Social Security, Medicare, and affordable healthcare, among other issues. Its advocacy efforts extend to a wide range of social and economic issues, including fighting age discrimination, improving the quality of long-term care, and ensuring access to affordable prescription drugs.

Criticism and Controversy

Despite its many achievements, AARP has faced criticism and controversy. Some critics argue that the organization's insurance offerings conflict with its advocacy work, particularly when it comes to healthcare policy. Others have questioned the transparency of its financial operations and its political neutrality, given its significant lobbying activities.

Conclusion

AARP remains a pivotal organization for Americans over the age of fifty, offering a blend of advocacy, information, service, and community to its members. Through its extensive range of activities, AARP continues to play a critical role in shaping the dialogue around aging in America and advocating for the rights and well-being of older adults.