Are There Alternatives To AARP?

For those Americans 50 and over there are organizations that offer a voice for social issues and their specific needs and concerns. Non-profit organizations AARP, AMAC and Generation America are advocates for issues such as Social Security and Medicare. They function similarly offering benefits and discounts for their members however, they each take very different stances on social and political issues.

AARP certainly is a household name and nationwide organization with offers to receive benefits as a member that include discounts for auto insurance, travel and phone services. It is a non-partisan organization with the mission to enhance the quality of life of its members and help create positive social change. AARP also provides a magazine and monthly bulletins that provide their members with valuable information on living healthy, financial planning, consumer protection and caring for aging parents. AARP's website offers discussion forums, information on their public policy and tips for those 50 and over. Local chapters with community volunteers are also an additional benefit of an AARP membership.

AMAC (The Association of Mature American Citizens) has been giving the more conservative Americans 50+ a voice since 2007. With 575,000 members across America, AMAC and its members are working to protect religious freedom, saving Social Security, and repealing Obamacare. AMAC offers its members benefits such as national discounts including auto insurance, hotels, car rental and more. Additional benefits are available such as dental and prescription discounts and roadside assistance. AMAC has a website with informational articles regarding hot topics for baby boomers and senior citizens as well as the AMAC Advantage magazine.

Generation America is conservative organization supporting libertarians, Tea Party and other like-minded individuals. Their mission is to neutralize the voice and influence of AARP claiming that they support liberal causes. On Generation America's web page they voice their values to include being completely honest with their messages and to put its members welfare above profit. Offering the same benefits for their members, they also provide valuable information for those individuals 50 and over on their website and via their eMagazine. There is also a way for Generation American members to contact representatives and other government officials via their website.

Both AARP and AMAC have magazines available for their members and all three organizations offer low membership costs. Their memberships also include a spouse. These organizations act as advocates for their members. As we are aware, there have been cuts in the American budget that has affected our senior resources in the communities around the nation. Before we make a decision, let's make sure we understand which organization is the best voice for our social and political beliefs and represents us well.

Answers To Caring For The Aging (FREE CARE PLAN GUIDE)

Suddenly you have become a caregiver for a loved one, often a parent, and you have so many questions about care options. Very few have read about caring for their elderly parents or have limited knowledge about elder care or elder care law. When you are thrown into the role of being a caregiver, seldom is there the chance to read a book to get information as you may need to make quick decisions. One of the biggest concerns we see in our industry is that individuals aren't aware of the resources that are available for their loved ones and are not exactly sure where to begin their search.

We have created a simple guide for caregivers or potential future caregivers to help guide them in the right direction when they have questions regarding care options. Questions such as what is a care plan? Should I visit the doctor with mom or dad? Do we place mom is assisted living or choose home care services? Other topics mentioned are included such as having the 'parent talk' and other crucial conversations to prepare for certain possible events such as illness or their personal desire for their quality of living. 

This simple care plan guide is available for FREE download at www.SouthernCompanions.net. 

Our hope is that this will help families in our community as well as across the nation in a unique and simple way to make a difference in the lives of their families enabling them to make the best care options for their loved ones.

~ April Cummings

Marketing Director, Southern Companions