Enabling the improvement of people's health depends both on people taking control of their health as they age to the extent they can and on systems that support healthy choices and provide everyone with affordable, high-quality care. To start, people should have access to care throughout the course of their lives, without regard to their health status, wealth, or location.
While personal behaviors may affect longevity and disability, they are not the only determinants of healthy living and aging. A strong public health system with well-funded programs and activities is important for fostering positive health outcomes for all members of a community. Access to affordable, high-quality clinical preventive services and medical care is critical. Other factors outside the medical system also affect health and longevity. For instance, access to employment, education, housing, healthy foods, safe neighborhoods, and social supports reduce health disparities. Environmental conditions, cultural norms, and discriminatory practices also influence outcomes. Health policies must address both individual behaviors and systems to ensure fairness.
Ethel Percy Andrus, born in 1881 in San Francisco, founded AARP in 1958. Before that, she established the National Retired Teachers Association in 1947 to help retired educators access health care. As a teacher, principal, and trailblazer, she believed older adults deserved dignity, purpose, and access to affordable care. Her vision of aging with independence continues to guide AARP’s mission.
• 1958: AARP is founded by Dr. Andrus.
• 1963: AARP launches a mail-order pharmacy service.
• 1980s: AARP expands its advocacy efforts nationwide.
• 2004: Launch of AARP Medicare Advantage plans with UnitedHealthcare.
• Present: Over 38 million members strong, AARP influences policy, provides resources, and promotes aging with dignity.
Benefits and Why Choose Us AARP is a trusted nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering Americans aged 50 and older to choose how they live as they age. With a mission rooted in advocacy, education, and service, AARP provides resources that promote independence, dignity, and purpose. Key benefits include access to trusted health information, discounts on healthcare and wellness services, policy advocacy for senior healthcare, and programs that support healthy aging. AARP members also benefit from educational tools, financial planning resources, and a strong voice in public policy decisions. Choosing AARP means joining a community that puts your health, financial security, and quality of life first. Whether it's navigating Medicare, protecting your rights, or finding local support, AARP is by your side every step of the way.
| AARP | |
| Healthy Living |
Offers wellness programs, discounts, and health resources for members. |
| Medicare |
Provides Medicare Advantage and supplemental plans for members 65+. |
| The Health Care System |
Collaborates with healthcare providers for member access. |
| Medicaid |
Provides Medicare benefits for low-income individuals. |
| Long-Term Services and Supports (LTSS) |
Offers resources and guidance for long-term health services for seniors. |
AARP is a nonprofit organization for older adults; Anyone over 50 or their partner can join.
Members get discounts on insurance, travel, medications, and health resources, in addition to educational and advocacy programs.
Annual membership costs between $12 and $16, depending on the state and promotions.
No, membership starts at age 50, with eligibility for partners.
Yes—members get discounts on pharmacy, vision, dental, and wellness programs.
AARP endorses plans with trusted companies, but It remains independent and member-focused.
You can join by phone or online through the AARP website or app, depending on availability.
Yes, most are valid in the U.S., although some may vary by region.
Yes, you can cancel at any time with a prorated refund if you paid annually.
AARP is independent, member-led, and focused on advocacy, not profit.
