AARP’s Advocacy on Medicare and Social Security: Ongoing Challenges and Member Engagement

In July 2001, AARP volunteers delivered a symbolically incomplete layer cake to each member of Congress to highlight the absence of a prescription drug benefit in Medicare, underscoring the need for comprehensive coverage.

This advocacy helped catalyze the passage of Medicare Part D in 2003, establishing a prescription drug benefit under Medicare. AARP has consistently engaged with administrations across the political spectrum to strengthen Medicare and Social Security, focusing on preserving these critical programs for older Americans. There is ongoing concern among AARP members about the long-term sustainability of Medicare and Social Security, with some opting to take Social Security benefits early due to uncertainty, despite expert assurances that Social Security is not expected to run out of funds. A recent policy proposal that threatened to terminate telephone services for certain Social Security claims was reversed after AARP's intervention, although challenges like extended call wait times persist and require legislative attention.

The organization continues to advocate against efforts by pharmaceutical lobbyists to restrict Medicare's capacity to negotiate drug prices, as well as urging congressional action to address a projected 20% shortfall in Social Security funding by 2033 if unaddressed.

AARP urges members and the public to actively engage with their congressional representatives through online platforms to support the protection and enhancement of Medicare and Social Security. Through sustained advocacy and member support, AARP remains committed to safeguarding these programs, which millions of working Americans rely on for retirement security and healthcare coverage.