Why Seniors Should Join AARP

One of the first things that I did when I turned 50 was to join AARP. For those of you who haven't heard of them before, AARP is an organization for people, ages 50 and up, that offers a ton of membership benefits for only $16 a year. In my opinion, every person should join this organization once they turn 50.

AARP states that they are a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping people in this age range improve the quality of their lives.

Some of the benefits offered include discounts on everyday services, such as car rental, auto insurance, prescriptions, tickets to various venues, health products, technology, and financial services.

This organization also acts as an advocate in Washington for older people in the areas of housing, income, and hunger in addition to healthcare, retirement, and employment.

They put out a variety of informative publications throughout the course of the month addressing issues that affect people in the age category mentioned.

I've found my membership to be well worth the price. I've been able to whip out my AARP card in many places and receive discounts. I'm also able to keep up to date on issues that may affect my life.
AARP even has employment opportunities available in their local offices.

AARP was one of the very first organizations to provide relevant, accurate information on the ACA (Affordable Care Act), and they continue to keep members updated on this program.
They promote recreational activities, networking, and diversity.

Joining AARP has almost become a rite of passage among the over-50 crowd. They've been around in different incarnations since 1958 and have steadily evolved over the years, even to the point of becoming a powerful lobbying influence. The website boasts a membership of over 37 million strong - and growing.

Members receive benefits and access to information and opportunities that literally affect every area of their lives.

If you have finally qualified for entry into the 'sassy silver club' and are interested in joining an organization that works tirelessly on your behalf and whose activities affect every facet of your life, I would suggest that at the very least you peruse the website and see if there is anything there that appeals to you. Even First Lady Michelle Obama applied for, and received, her membership.

I've referred a number of people to AARP, and of the many that have joined all have agreed that it was well worth the cost of membership and they renew year after year.

So, what are you waiting for? Click the link below and do your own research.

Source:
AARP.org

*Photo: Mike Licht via Flickr.com

 

[Originally published on Yahoo! Voices (no longer published there).]