Advice On Joining AARP - The American Association Of Retired Persons

by SuzyQ

posted on 10/16/2009

Let's make it perfectly clear that you don't have to be retired or even remotely close to retired to become a member of AARP, the American Association of Retired Persons. As the world's largest membership organization that also boasts having the world's largest circulation magazine (AARP, The Magazine), AARP is primarily known as a lobbying group that represents the needs of senior citizens on Capitol Hill and in front of various industry executives that are involved in social programs and activities affecting those of retirement age.

I'm a bona-fide, card-carrying member of AARP and have been ever since I was 49 years old. That's when they sent me my "official invitation" to join -- and I don't plan to retire for a good number of years yet!

So are there any good reasons to join AARP? You bet there are. Membership, at $16 a year, is a real bargain, although if you commit to a multiple year membership, you can get the cost down even lower, to as little as $12.60 annually.

Here are reasons why you should consider joining AARP, even at an "early" age and before retirement.

They publish an interesting magazine with lots of useful articles. You don't have to be an old fogey to enjoy their magazine. They have features on celebrities, financial advice, recipes, tips on travel, insurance, health updates and more. I read it cover to cover.

They offer discounts ... lots of them. Flashing your AARP cards gets you lots of discounts, many of them available regardless of your age. Discounts on Internet access, travel, legal services, health and fitness products and even apparel, are available to members. If you're a savvy shopper, you can save many times the cost of your membership.

They are a voice for retirees in America. Although not every member will always agree with their platforms on issues, they are the most effective lobbying group in the United States, pushing for improvements to programs and services for senior citizens.

They help connect you with likeminded individuals. Through a very lively online presence, you can connect with others who share your interests. Blogs and community networking sites offer advice and support on everything from travel to gardening to dealing with aging parents.

I do not work for AARP and in no way officially represent them. However, I do think that they are a worthwhile organization that anyone approaching 50 years of age should consider joining. And don't worry ... they know who you are. You will receive an invitation to become part of their growing membership around six months before your 50th birthday. And if you don't ... visit http://www.aarp.org, w here you can get an idea of the types of services and benefits they provide.

And one last thing ... AARP can be an extremely useful resource if you have aging parents or relatives.

Comment on this article

You must be logged in to post comments.

Previous Comments