As we grow older, our lives change in many ways. Senior citizens often face new issues requiring specialized guidance, from dealing with emerging health concerns to planning for the future.
One organization that immediately comes to mind when we look for ways to navigate these issues is the American Association of Retired Persons (AARP). The AARP has been around for a long time, helping older Americans navigate these issues by advocating for their rights.
AARP members can choose products and services via a wealth of resources to navigate topics like Medicare (sold through United Healthcare), financial services, health insurance plans, life insurance products, and even prescription drug discounts.
With 30 million active members, AARP is undoubtedly a popular choice for seniors but it has many drawbacks. Class action lawsuits have suggested the organization may be charging insurance providers illegal commissions, throwing doubt at the idea that it has its members' best interests at heart. Plus, its liberal leanings have also cast doubt on its political neutrality over the years.
As such, many older adults and caregivers who may have considered AARP membership are now looking into alternatives to find advice on topics from long-term care to wellness to auto insurance. But what are they?
The Association of Mature American Citizens (AMAC)
Unlike the AARP, which many perceive as left-leaning, AMAC takes a conservative approach, which may be appealing to seniors who share similar values. In addition to being an advocacy organization, AMAC also offers members a variety of benefits, including healthcare products and services, such as Medicare Advantage and Medicare Supplement options.
Of course, the benefits of AMAC go beyond just saving money. By joining this organization, seniors will also have the opportunity to be part of a community that shares their values and beliefs, if those values are "faith, family, and freedom."
AMAC is often portrayed as the "conservative alternative" to the AARP, and given its values, it's easy to see why. So if you're looking for an organization that offers similar benefits to the AARP but has a more conservative approach, then AMAC may be one to consider. To join, visit the AMAC website at amac.us and sign up.
The American Seniors Association (ASA)
If you've decided not to join AARP and need another conservative alternative, then the ASA, the American Seniors Association, could be one option to explore. Geared towards people 50 and older, ASA positions itself as an advocacy group "standing firm against the progressive agenda of the AARP."
It also describes itself as "the conservative alternative to the AARP," claiming to put the needs of seniors above "big insurance" and "big pharma." Politically, it's closely aligned with AMAC but claims to differ from its conservative ally by offering curated lists of products and services to save members money.
Whether you're looking for the right insurance companies, an advocacy group with a conservative agenda, or perhaps a lively blog covering topics ranging from lifestyle and travel to politics, ASA has it all. And if you're conservative-leaning, you can't go wrong with either ASA or AMAC.
AgeGroup
We saved the best for last - and yes, we realize we're slightly biased. But if you're looking for something a little different, then you should consider AgeGroup. AgeGroup is designed to help the modern senior find helpful advice, resources, and, importantly, a sense of community.
Unlike organizations like AMAC, AARP, and ASA, we're not here to push any one political agenda. Instead, we ensure we remain politically neutral and have no political associations whatsoever. This means we focus on your needs and not the agenda of any one political party.
Also, we provide objective reviews of products and services to help you make the best choice for you. We're not interested in simply pushing the products of companies advertising with us. Instead, we write thoughtful reviews with helpful comparison tables to help you find the best product for your needs.
There are also products in the works that'll help you develop relationships with other seniors, as well as find age-friendly businesses. AgeGroup is evolving as your needs evolve. We're here to grow with you and cater to your needs and interests.
AARP alternatives
If you've decided the AARP isn't for you, there are so many different advocacy groups catering to seniors out there. And depending on your needs and interests as a senior, you can choose the organization that best aligns with your requirements.
Whether you're looking for travel discounts, social security benefits advice, political advocacy, care insurance advice, or educational resources, there is an alternative to the AARP for you.
And if you're looking for a unique offering catering to the modern elder, why not check out AgeGroup? It's the new kid on the block, but it's packed with valuable, politically-neutral insights you might not find elsewhere.
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