Is the AARP Membership Worth It?

For a relatively low annual fee, an AARP membership unlocks many discounts, rewards, and exclusive deals that can help members save money, have fun, and even upgrade their insurance. Almost 38 million people consider AARP to be worth the cost, but whether it’s personally worth it to you depends on your ability to take advantage of the various benefits. 

To help you make an informed decision, Judson Meadows created this guide that features everything you need to know about AARP before deciding on membership.  

AARP Benefits 

AARP advocates for seniors and older Americans on the local, state, and national levels. The organization aims to increase resources in communities, support bills that improve the lives of seniors and caregivers, and increase access to quality health care. For example, in New York State, AARP sponsors events ranging from exercise classes to financial education. It also lobbied New York State to increase nursing home oversight and provide transparency in prescription medication pricing. 

In addition to having a nationwide organization on their side that will fight for them, AARP members enjoy a range of other benefits. Some of the main AARP benefits include:  

Travel and Entertainment Discounts  

Not only can members plan trips easily with the AARP Travel Center, which offers detailed information on various destinations, but they can also save money while traveling. It’s possible to save on the cost of hotels, parking, tours, and airfare in addition to maximizing reward programs, enjoying discounts at popular restaurants, watching free movies online, and saving on technology, including AT&T wireless plans. Members also enjoy free games, a book of the month, and discounted rates at theme parks and bowling alleys.  

Discounted Insurance Plans 

Members who opt to sign up for AARP-sponsored insurance programs can save on insurance rates. For example, they can get lower premiums on auto policies and homeowners’ insurance, while structuring the policies to meet their various needs. AARP members also have access to vision and dental insurance plans as well as supplemental health plans. 

Free Hearing Test 

Unfortunately, hearing can decline with age. AARP offers its members a free annual hearing test conducted by phone that is confidential and provides results in minutes. Additionally, AARP has a Hearing Center with education, advice, and resources to help members identify, manage, and prevent hearing loss. Additionally, they can save 15% to 20% on hearing aids and accessories through participating providers.  

Access to Long-Term Care Insurance 

An AARP long-term care insurance plan can help offset the costs of future care, including home care and assisted living for seniors. Of course, it’s not necessary to join AARP to get long-term care insurance, but AARP members do gain access to high-quality coverage with one of the AARP-endorsed policies. The policies come in varying coverage levels to fit into nearly any budget. The cost varies based on factors like age, health, and the desired coverage level. 

AARP Magazine and the Now App 

The AARP Now app puts all the latest membership information at your fingertips. Members can use it to access their card details, look for discounts, view rewards, and play games — all on their mobile devices or smartphones. Membership also includes a free subscription to the AARP magazine, which features detailed articles on everything from health and wellness to money and the latest information on Medicare benefits. 

AARP Membership Requirements 

To get full benefits, members must be at least 50 years old. Individuals 50 and older are eligible for membership for themselves and another member of their households. For those who are between 18 and 50, joining the organization is still an option, but membership benefits are limited in some areas. For example, age-related insurance options and discounts are typically only available to members who are at least 50 years old.  

How to Join AARP 

Becoming an AARP member is easy. If you receive a sign-up invitation in the mail, you can simply fill it out and mail it back. You can also visit the AARP website and join online. Choose from three membership terms: one, three, or five years. Create your AARP sign-in information, pay the membership fee, and begin enjoying the benefits immediately.  

Frequently Asked Questions 

Do You Have to Be Age 50 to Join? 

No. Anyone older than 18 can join AARP. However, only those older than the age of 50 receive full membership benefits without limitations. 

How Much Does Membership Cost? 

In 2023, a one-year membership costs $16 without automatic renewal. However, if you choose a one-year membership that renews each year, the rate drops to $12. AARP also offers discounts if you opt for multi-year memberships. For example, a three-year term costs $43 and a five-year term costs $63 in 2023. 

How Long Do I Have to Wait After Signing Up to Receive Benefits? 

If you sign up by mail, it can take up to three weeks to receive your AARP membership card. If you sign up online, you can access your benefits almost immediately. An online account and the AARP Now app allow you to get all the details about your membership quickly.  

Is AARP Worth It?  

Ultimately, deciding whether AARP membership is worth it depends on your personal interests and needs. If you plan to travel, need insurance, enjoy going out to eat, or engage in the types of activities that offer discounts to AARP members, then you could recoup the expense of annual membership almost instantly. However, you must pay the annual fee even if you don’t use the benefits, so that is something to consider.  

Enjoy AARP Benefits While Living Life to Its Fullest 

One of the benefits residents of the Judson Meadows community enjoy is AARP discounts on local community activities. We believe retirement should include plenty of fun and enjoyment, which is why we offer a full menu of activities onsite and out in the local community. That gives residents opportunities to use their AARP memberships to get discounts on shopping, entertainment, and more in Glenville, New York, and the surrounding area. 

Contact Judson Meadows Today 

Contact Judson Meadows to learn more about our community or to schedule a tour. For immediate assistance, call us at 518-831-2400.