AARP membership: It’s worth having

After many years at the same cost, AARP increased their membership fee to $20 at the beginning of this year. But it’s still a bargain when you consider the additional benefits, savings and discounts that are available, as well as the newspaper and magazine.

The aarp.org website lists discounted gym memberships, travel and vacation packages, insurance, flowers and so much more. If you need computer help such as hooking up to a wireless network or printer, you can get 15% off the Norton Ultimate Help Desk.

The health benefits especially are worth considering. If you suspect you need hearing aids, AARP Hearing Solutions offers a free hearing exam and then 20% off hearing aids, should you need them.

If you need at-home physical therapy, AARP offers the service through Luna, and it’s covered by Medicare, Aetna, Anthem and Cigna.

Check the Optum Rx page on AARP’s website for prescription drug discounts. Enter your drug in the search box and it will find the best price. Print out your discount card or have it sent to you in email.

In my area, I qualify for discount tires, 20% off Dr. Scholl’s shoes and half-price car washes, among other things.

The discounted items aren’t the only thing you’ll find with AARP. The Tax Aide Locator is set up to help low and moderate income seniors with tax preparation — or, if you prefer to do it yourself with just a little bit of coaching, they can provide that, too.

The advice and how-to columns alone are worth the cost of the membership. Digitizing your old home movies, tips to help prevent falls and seven ways to avoid germs at the gym are just a few of the current columns on AARP’s online front page.

To learn more about the benefits of an AARP membership, check the website or give them a call at 888-687-2277.