Why don't members have a say?

[rickg53]

The goals of AARP are decided at the highest level.  There is no way for members to address that.  We don't even have an influence on any of it.

Just to give a small example.  When you talk about design for adults, you don't address having benches or covers at bus stops, or being to identify where the bus stop is at an intersection, or having signs identify which way a bus will be going.

Transportation to/from medical appointments can be costly, if there are no direct routes.  I need to take 3 busses and still walk up a steep hill even though the distance is less than two miles.  As a result, I must take an Uber/Lift.  For a series of upcoming radiation, it will cost me over $600.

You have a questionnaire distributed in Washington State.  The multiple choice format allows us to select from your pre-selected answers.  A few allow us to select "other," but don't allow us to say what the other is.

If AARP wants to make sure we have a voice, you must allow us to speak.  This questionnaire, lets us select from a narrow range of problems and solutions.  This is emblematic of how seniors are treated.

[Winter2025VA]

@rickg53 , your post caught my eye. You do bring up some "important" concerns. I am wondering IF maybe your local LOA (office of aging) would approach AARP on your behalf.

I know last year, my LOA here in Virginia received an AARP Grant to add on an Exercise Setup to their building. This leads me to believe someone at AARP should be in some contact with the Washington LOA.

Thank you SO MUCH for this post.

It certainly got my attention as a Senior.

Take care,

Nicole!

➡️[*** 

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@rickg53 wrote:

The goals of AARP are decided at the highest level.  There is no way for members to address that.  We don't even have an influence on any of it.

Just to give a small example.  When you talk about design for adults, you don't address having benches or covers at bus stops, or being to identify where the bus stop is at an intersection, or having signs identify which way a bus will be going.

Transportation to/from medical appointments can be costly, if there are no direct routes.  I need to take 3 busses and still walk up a steep hill even though the distance is less than two miles.  As a result, I must take an Uber/Lift.  For a series of upcoming radiation, it will cost me over $600.

You have a questionnaire distributed in Washington State.  The multiple choice format allows us to select from your pre-selected answers.  A few allow us to select "other," but don't allow us to say what the other is.

If AARP wants to make sure we have a voice, you must allow us to speak.  This questionnaire, lets us select from a narrow range of problems and solutions.  This is emblematic of how seniors are treated.

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