AARP began as an advocacy group for older Americans concerned about Social Security, Medicare, and family caregiving. Today it represents 110 million Americans in the 50+ demographic who are living longer and retiring later.

AARP, a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting Americans aged 50 and over, has become a significant force in both media and advocacy. With its magazine reaching nearly 40 million readers, AARP addresses issues relevant to older adults, such as health, financial security, and lifestyle, while also attracting high-profile figures like Drew Barrymore and Bob Dylan.

Founded in 1958 to address the needs of an aging population, AARP now represents 110 million Americans and has shifted its focus as people live and work longer. While the organization is nonpartisan, it has faced criticism for its lobbying efforts. Key concerns among its members include the future of Medicare, Social Security, and the challenges of family caregiving. AARP continues to adapt, aiming to empower new generations as they age.

AARP and the business of an aging audience

It's become a rite of passage for many of us maturing into middle age and beyond, joining AARP. Our Robert Costa pages through its storied history. Oh my God, there is such good energy in this room. Drew Barrymore is beloved for her youthful energy. She also turned 50 earlier this year. And in a recent chat on her talk show set, she embraced being on the cover of AARP, the magazine. Everyone keeps telling me that this magical age of 50 is when you really start to let go of things. And I would love that to be true. AARP, today we empower people to choose how they live as they age. Aging is a tricky business, but it is the business of AARP. The nonprofit's magazine's readership is staggering, nearly 40 million people. The average issue's audience, the largest for any print publication in America. In the magazine, what we're trying to say is we get you. We're going to talk about things that matter to you because you matter. At 86, Myrna Blythe is editorial director. We know health works, money works, lifestyle works. Advertisers and celebrities recognize the power of older Americans. How did you get Bob Dylan to be on the cover? He called us and asked us. He called you? Yes. Dylan doesn't call anybody. He called the editor. We're all growing old at the same rate. And you know, it's rather comforting to know that time just can't be managed. In 1958, educator Ethel Persiandris founded AARP after growing alarmed about the struggles facing older people. Is there still a sense of alarm about the state of affairs for older Americans? Definitely. As a nonprofit organization. Dr. Myesha Minter-Jordan is now the CEO. We represent 110 million Americans who are in the 50-plus demographic. People are living longer. They're staying in the workforce longer. And so the needs are changing, but the needs are still urgent. In 1999, they stopped being the American Association of Retired Persons and became just AARP. While it is nonpartisan, it's not immune from controversy. Over the years, it has been criticized from left and right for its lobbying efforts. What are your members worried about? Our members are most worried about Medicare, Social Security, and family caregiving. They don't think those things will be there for them? They're very concerned. This is something that people are earning their entire life, they're paying into for Social Security, and they're very concerned about their access to that. And additionally, family caregiving. We're hearing more and more from people who are in the sandwich generation, taking care of younger children, taking care of their aging parents, and the financial hardships that that can bring. As for the future, it's about welcoming new generations. We're growing up. And now we get to be on AARP? And Drew Barrymore is excited about everything to come. When you look down the horizon at your own life, how do you think about age and even possibly retirement? I had never thought about the concept of retirement because I started working at 11 months old, and I'm still working. I've never known what life is like without that. So it seems like an exciting prospect, but things are so good right now that I don't want to be unappreciating of everything that's happening in my life right now. So it's not soon, but it's something that, like, I get excited about dancing with in some ballroom one night. Like, this new stranger will walk in and sweep me off my feet and his name will be Retirement.

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