Learn About AARP Membership and Online Features

What AARP Membership Includes

AARP is an organization that serves people age 50 and older. The membership includes access to various resources, discounts, and information about topics relevant to older adults. When someone joins AARP, they receive materials and can access both printed and online resources throughout their membership period.

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The organization provides information about health topics, financial planning, caregiving, and lifestyle issues. Members can receive AARP Magazine, which covers stories about health, money, and living well. The membership also connects people to local chapter activities in their communities, where members can attend events and meet others with similar interests.

AARP offers discounts through participating retailers and service providers. These discounts cover areas like travel, dining, shopping, and entertainment. While the specific retailers change, members can find current discount information through their online account or by calling AARP directly.

The organization advocates on policy issues affecting older adults, including Social Security, Medicare, and healthcare reform. Members receive updates about legislative matters that may impact them. AARP also conducts research and publishes reports about aging-related topics.

Technology resources form an important part of membership. AARP provides online tutorials about using smartphones, computers, and other devices. These educational materials help older adults build digital skills at their own pace.

Practical takeaway: Review the membership materials AARP sends when you join to understand which features match your interests—whether that's discounts, health information, or community activities. Different members use different parts of their membership based on their needs.

Understanding AARP's Online Platform and Website Features

AARP maintains a website and online member portal where members can manage their accounts and explore content. The online platform allows members to view their membership details, update personal information, and review their subscription preferences. Members can choose which types of communications they want to receive and how often.

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The AARP website contains articles, videos, and interactive tools organized by topic area. Members can search for information about retirement planning, Social Security, Medicare, health conditions, caregiving, travel, technology, and money management. The site structure allows visitors to browse by category or use the search function to find specific topics.

The member portal includes a section for managing account settings. Members can update their address, email, and phone number. They can also adjust their communication preferences—for example, choosing to receive newsletters by email instead of mail, or selecting specific topics they want to read about.

AARP offers webinars and online events that members can attend from home. These sessions cover various topics and typically include a presentation followed by question-and-answer periods. Members receive notifications about upcoming events through email or can view a calendar on the website.

The online tax preparation tool, AARP Tax-Aide, is available through the website. This resource provides information about free tax preparation services offered by AARP volunteers at locations throughout the country. Members can use the website to find local tax preparation assistance and learn about income requirements for this service.

Practical takeaway: Spend time exploring the AARP website's main sections to see what information and resources are available. Bookmark pages you visit regularly, and adjust your account notification settings so you receive information that matters to you without being overwhelmed by emails.

Navigating Member Discounts and Special Offers

AARP negotiates discounts with hundreds of companies and retailers. These offers cover a wide range of spending categories including auto insurance, home insurance, travel booking, hotels, car rentals, restaurants, entertainment, and retail shopping. The discounts vary—some offer a percentage off purchases, while others provide specific dollar amounts or special promotions.

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Members can find current discount information through several channels. The AARP website has a searchable database of participating retailers and service providers. Members enter their zip code and interest area—such as dining or travel—to see which businesses in their region offer discounts. The member portal also displays personalized offers based on the member's location.

AARP provides information about insurance products, including Medicare supplement insurance and long-term care insurance. While AARP does not sell these products directly, the organization provides educational materials about types of coverage and connects members with insurance providers. Members can compare options through the AARP website or by phone.

Travel discounts are a popular part of AARP membership. Hotels, cruise lines, and airlines offer reduced rates for AARP members. Members can view these offers on the AARP travel website or call AARP travel services to book accommodations or tours. The website displays pricing and allows members to read reviews from other travelers.

Entertainment and dining discounts vary by location and season. Members can find local restaurant offers through the website's discount search tool. Movie theaters, museums, theaters, and concert venues in various regions also offer member discounts, though availability differs by area.

Practical takeaway: Before making a major purchase—such as booking travel or getting an insurance quote—check the AARP website for available discounts. Keep your membership card with you when shopping or dining, as some retailers require showing the physical card to receive discounts at the point of sale.

Accessing Health and Wellness Information Resources

AARP publishes extensive health and wellness information covering common conditions affecting older adults. The website contains articles written by medical journalists about diseases, medications, symptoms, and treatment options. This information is intended to help members understand health topics, though it is not meant to replace conversations with personal doctors.

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The organization provides information about Medicare, including how Medicare works, what coverage includes, and how to understand bills. AARP explains different Medicare parts—Part A covers hospital stays, Part B covers doctor visits, Part D covers prescriptions, and supplemental plans cover costs that Original Medicare does not. This educational material helps members understand their options during enrollment periods.

AARP offers resources about healthy aging, including information about exercise, nutrition, sleep, and cognitive health. The website contains workout videos designed for older adults, recipes for nutritious meals, and articles about preventing falls and maintaining independence. Some content addresses specific health conditions and lifestyle changes people can make to manage symptoms.

Mental health and caregiving resources are available through the AARP website. Members can find information about depression, anxiety, grief, and other emotional health topics. For those caring for aging relatives, AARP provides guides about managing caregiving responsibilities, finding care options, and maintaining one's own wellbeing while helping others.

The AARP Nurse Advice Line is a service where members can speak with registered nurses by phone to discuss health questions. This is not a substitute for doctor care, but members can call to talk through health concerns and learn when they should see a doctor. Information about contacting the Nurse Advice Line appears in member materials and on the website.

Practical takeaway: Use AARP's health resources to build your understanding of health conditions and healthcare options, and bring questions or information from the website to discuss with your doctor. Save or print articles about conditions that affect you or your family for reference.

Managing Your Online Account and Preferences

When you join AARP, you can create an online account on the AARP website. The account allows you to view your membership status, see when your membership renews, and update your personal information. You can log in from any device with an internet connection to manage these details anytime.

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The account settings section shows your membership number, membership type, and renewal date. Members can update their mailing address, email address, and phone number through the account portal. If you change addresses or phone numbers, updating this information in your account ensures you continue receiving important membership materials and communications.

Communication preferences are an important account setting. Members can choose how they want to receive information—by email, mail, phone, or text message. They can select specific topics they want to hear about and indicate topics they do not want to receive information on. Members can also set the frequency of communications, such as receiving updates weekly, monthly, or as news breaks.

The online account shows subscription information for AARP Magazine and other publications. Members can manage their magazine subscription preferences, adjust delivery options, or report if they are not receiving their copy. Some members receive the digital version of the magazine online instead of the printed version.

AARP provides information about account security. Members are encouraged to use strong passwords and not to share their login information. If you think someone has accessed your account without permission, AARP recommends changing your password and contacting member services to report the concern.