The American Association of Retired Persons (AARP) is a membership organization that provides a wide array of benefits, including discounts, programs, and services. While AARP is traditionally associated with individuals aged 50 and above, the organization does not enforce a minimum age requirement for membership. Individuals of all ages can join and access various offers. Membership benefits extend across multiple categories, including health and wellness, travel, dining, retail, and entertainment. Additionally, AARP often provides free gifts to new members as part of promotional offers. Beyond AARP's direct programs, other organizations and retailers offer freebies and discounts specifically targeted at senior citizens.
AARP Membership and Promotional Offers
AARP membership is available to anyone, regardless of age, though its benefits are tailored for older adults. New members can often enroll at a discounted rate and receive a free gift. For example, a promotional offer allows new members to secure their first year of AARP for $15, with automatic renewal, and choose a free gift such as a $5 Target or T.J. Maxx gift card or a mini Bluetooth speaker. Additionally, the membership includes a second free membership for a household member. This offer is available for a limited time. It is important to note that enrollment in auto-renewal is part of the deal, but members can disable this feature after signing up.
AARP membership grants access to a curated list of discounts from reputable brands. The discounts cover a broad range of categories, including health and wellness, travel, gas and auto services, retail, entertainment, restaurants, technology, and finances. Specific examples of partner brands include Glasses.com, CVS, Expedia, Hilton, British Airways, Valvoline, The Hartford, Clarks, Walmart, Disneyland Resort, Paramount+, Universal Studios, Outback Steakhouse, Papa John’s, AT&T, UPS Store, and Trust & Will.
Health and Wellness Freebies and Discounts
AARP provides numerous resources and discounts aimed at maintaining members' health and well-being affordably. These include:
- Prescription Discounts: Members can obtain a free Optum Rx prescription discount card, which provides savings on all FDA-approved medications at over 66,000 pharmacies nationwide, including CVS, Kroger Pharmacy, Walmart Pharmacy, and Walgreens.
- Vision Discounts: Through a partnership with EyeMed, AARP members receive exclusive discounts on eye exams and eyewear at participating retailers. Specific offers include 50% off prescription lenses with the purchase of a frame at LensCrafters, 30% off a complete pair using code RP_AARP30 at Glasses.com, and an extra $10 off a complete pair at Target Optical.
- Hearing Health: The AARP Hearing Center offers expert advice on maintaining ear health. AARP members are entitled to a free annual hearing test by phone.
- Fitness and Physical Therapy: Members can access AARP Fitness Center with workout experts like Kathy Smith and Lorraine Ladish. There is also a program called Active & Fit Now, which provides access to over 12,500 gyms nationwide for $32 per month with no enrollment fee. For physical therapy, AARP offers at-home physical therapy through Luna, which accepts most insurances and Medicare, and is available to both members and non-members.
- Dental Insurance: The AARP Dental Insurance Plan, administered by Delta Dental Insurance Company, offers coverage for common dental procedures.
- Nutrition and Recipes: AARP provides free personalized nutrition resources developed by dietitians and a recipe analyzer, along with videos and webinars. Members can also access free healthy recipes from various websites.
- Brain Health: The AARP Staying Sharp program helps members keep their brain health in mint shape through interactive activities and cooking recipes.
- Pilates Classes: Members can stay fit with free on-demand Pilates classes from AARP Members-Only Pilates.
- Long-Term Care: AARP offers personalized long-term care options from New York Life, allowing members to choose plans that suit their needs and budget.
- Health Savings Account: Through Optum Financial, AARP provides a Health Savings Account with discounted fees and tax benefits for members with high-deductible health plans.
Travel Discounts
AARP members can save on various travel expenses, including flights, hotels, car rentals, cruises, and train travel. The organization partners with major brands in the travel sector to offer discounts on both luxury resorts and budget-friendly accommodations. Specific partner brands include Expedia, Hilton, and British Airways.
Dining and Restaurant Offers
Beyond AARP's partner discounts, several restaurants offer freebies or discounts to seniors. These offers are typically available to individuals aged 55 or older, though specific age requirements may vary by location.
- Arby's: Individuals aged 55 and older can receive a free drink at Arby's restaurants. No purchase is necessary; customers simply need to mention the offer when ordering.
- Burger King: AARP members can get a free cup of coffee at Burger King locations.
- Whataburger: Customers can score a free small coffee or drink when ordering a meal at select Whataburger locations.
- A&W: In honor of their 105th birthday, A&W is giving away free root beer floats for life to anyone aged 100 or older. To receive this, customers must visit any A&W location, mention the promotion, and may be required to show ID.
- Kids Eat Free: Some restaurants offer free meals for children when dining with adults, which can be beneficial for grandparents taking grandchildren out. A resource for finding these eateries is mentioned, but it is recommended to call ahead to confirm the deal is still available.
Other Freebies and Programs for Seniors
Several organizations and programs offer free services, discounts, or resources for senior citizens.
- AMAC (Association of Mature American Citizens): This is a membership organization for people aged 50 and over that provides discounts, deals, and other benefits for seniors, similar to AARP.
- The Seniors Club: This free-to-join club focuses on seniors' needs, providing a wide range of benefits and discounts on items such as medical equipment, home security, gifts, and dining.
- Libraries: Local libraries offer more than free books; they also provide free e-books, audiobooks, and videos. Signing up for a library card is typically quick, easy, and free.
- Colleges and Universities: Many local universities offer free or discounted courses to individuals as young as 50. AARP provides a list of academic institutions in each state that offer affordable or free educational options.
- Wheelchair Ramps: An organization called Ramp Access Made Possible by Students installs free wheelchair and handicapped ramps for qualified seniors and individuals with disabilities.
- Apps and Online Games: There are numerous free apps and online games designed for seniors, ranging from cognitive boosters like Word with Friends to simple, enjoyable games. AARP offers a large list of free online games.
Food-Related Freebies
- Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program: Individuals aged 60 and older with an income under approximately $23,000 (for a single person) or $31,000 (for a two-person household) can get coupons to use at authorized farm stands and farmers markets. Information can be found at fns.usda.gov by selecting "Programs" and then "Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program."
- Birthday Freebies: Some retailers offer free items on birthdays for rewards members. Examples include a free beverage at Starbucks and a free scoop of ice cream at Baskin-Robbins.
- Healthy Recipes: Free healthy recipes are available on websites such as EatYourselfSkinny.com, AllRecipes.com, Delish.com, and DeliciousMeetsHealthy.com. These sites often include options for various dietary preferences, including gluten-free, vegetarian, vegan, and dairy-free.
Travel and Entertainment Freebies
- National Parks: Entry fees are waived on certain dates each year at national parks. For 2019, one such date was Veterans Day, November 11. This benefit does not require an AARP membership.
- Entertainment Discounts: AARP members receive exclusive discounts on entertainment, including partnerships with Disneyland Resort, Paramount+, and Universal Studios.
Important Considerations
While AARP does not have a minimum age requirement to join, its programs and partnerships are designed with the needs of older adults in mind. The availability of specific freebies, discounts, and programs can change over time. It is always advisable to verify current offers directly with the brand or organization before making plans. For restaurant deals and other location-based offers, calling ahead to confirm is recommended. The information provided here is based on available data and promotional materials; terms and conditions may apply.
Conclusion
AARP membership provides a comprehensive suite of benefits, including significant discounts, free resources, and promotional gifts. The organization's offerings span health, travel, dining, and entertainment, making it a valuable resource for seniors and, due to the lack of age restrictions, for individuals of all ages. Beyond AARP, a variety of other freebies and discount programs are available to senior citizens through restaurants, retail chains, community programs, and educational institutions. By leveraging these opportunities, seniors and their families can access valuable services, products, and experiences at little to no cost.