AMAC Overview: A Growing Alternative for Seniors
As the senior population in the United States continues to grow, so does the need for organizations that represent their interests and provide them with resources and information. The American Association of Retired Persons (AARP) has long been the go-to organization for seniors, but in recent years, another group has emerged as a viable alternative: the Association of Mature American Citizens (AMAC).
AMAC was founded in 2007 as a conservative alternative to AARP. The organization advocates for issues such as lower taxes, a smaller government, and traditional family values. AMAC has grown steadily since its founding and now boasts more than 2 million members.
One of the primary reasons for AMAC’s growth is its focus on providing member benefits that are tailored to the needs and interests of seniors. These benefits include a Medicare supplement insurance plan, travel discounts, and identity theft protection, among others. AMAC also offers a range of educational materials and resources, including a monthly magazine and online articles.
Another factor that sets AMAC apart from AARP is its political advocacy. While AARP has traditionally leaned left in its political stances and endorsements, AMAC takes a more conservative approach. The organization has endorsed candidates such as President Donald Trump and Senator Ted Cruz, and has called for policies such as tax cuts and reduced government spending.
AMAC has also taken a strong stance on issues that directly affect seniors, such as the Affordable Care Act (ACA), also known as Obamacare. While AARP supported the ACA, AMAC has been a vocal opponent of the law, calling for its repeal and replacement with a market-based solution.
Despite its growing popularity, however, AMAC still faces some challenges in its bid to become a credible alternative to AARP. For example, the organization has faced accusations that it is merely a front for conservative politicians and interest groups. Critics have also pointed out that AMAC’s membership fees are higher than those of AARP.
Despite these criticisms, however, it is clear that AMAC has struck a chord with many seniors who are looking for an alternative to AARP. As the senior population continues to grow, it seems likely that both organizations will have an important role to play in advocating for the interests of older Americans.
AARP: History and Establishment
The American Association of Retired Persons (AARP) is a non-profit organization that was established in 1958. The main focus of the AARP is to provide its members with a range of services, benefits, and resources that enable them to lead fulfilling lives as they grow older. Today, the AARP has over 38 million members who are over the age of 50.
The idea for the AARP came about in the 1950s during the Eisenhower administration. At that time, a retired high school principal named Ethel Percy Andrus decided to establish an organization that would focus on the needs and concerns of older Americans. Andrus envisioned an organization that would provide a range of services to seniors, such as health insurance, financial planning, and legal assistance.
Andrus founded the AARP in 1958, and the organization quickly gained a large following. By the mid-1960s, the AARP had over 10 million members, which made it one of the largest non-profit organizations in the country. In the decades that followed, the AARP continued to grow and evolve, adding new services and expanding its membership base.
One of the key factors behind the AARP’s success has been its ability to stay relevant and responsive to the changing needs of its membership. The organization has been at the forefront of many important policy issues affecting older Americans, including healthcare reform, Social Security, Medicare, and age discrimination in the workplace.
Over the years, the AARP has also established partnerships with a wide range of businesses and organizations that offer products and services that are relevant to its membership. These partnerships have enabled the organization to provide its members with discounts on a range of products and services, including travel, dining, entertainment, and health-related products.
In recent years, the AARP has also expanded its focus to include issues such as caregiving, financial security, and technology. The organization has launched a range of initiatives and programs aimed at helping its members navigate these complex issues, including educational resources, online tools, and social media platforms.
Overall, the AARP has played a vital role in advocating for the needs and concerns of older Americans over the past six decades. Its commitment to providing its members with a range of services and resources that enhance their quality of life has made it one of the most respected and influential non-profit organizations in the country.
AMAC Member Benefits: Competitive Edge over AARP
AMAC and AARP are two of the most well-known organizations in America that cater to the senior citizens. Both are non-partisan, non-profit organizations focused on advocating for seniors and their rights. They aim to protect and enhance the quality of life for millions of retired Americans. However, when it comes to member benefits, AMAC has some competitive edges over AARP.
1. Greater Focus on Health and Wellness Benefits
AMAC offers a greater focus on health and wellness benefits. Seniors members can enjoy healthcare benefits that include dental, vision, hearing, and chiropractic care. Furthermore, AMAC provides a healthcare advocacy program to assist seniors with their Medicare needs. AMAC Gift of Well-Being program provides members with 24/7 telemedicine services. Members can consult with a doctor online or over the phone, and this includes prescriptions filled and delivered to their doorsteps in most cases.
2. Lower Membership Fees
AMAC has a significantly more affordable membership fee than AARP. The annual fee of AMAC membership is $16 a year. On the other hand, AARP charges its members $16 per year as well but with more expensive add-ons, making it more expensive for seniors. AMAC has an exclusive life membership option for its members, which costs $398 and guarantees lifetime membership, with no annual fee, and no further payments required. It is a one-time payment that offers discounts and savings for the rest of your life.
3. Travel Discounts and Savings
AMAC offers travel discounts and savings that are competitive compared to AARP. AMAC members can access exclusive discounts on car rentals, hotels, and airfare. AMAC members can also find discounts on cruises, vacation packages, and theme parks. Seniors can easily save up to 30% – 50% off travel bookings with AMAC. AMAC has partnered with some of the top travel companies in the United States to bring exclusive Travel deals for seniors. AARP has similar travel deals, but they are reported to have fewer discounts in comparison to AMAC.
In conclusion, both AMAC and AARP aim to provide senior citizens with benefits and services that enhance their quality of life. However, when it comes to member benefits, AMAC has specific competitive advantages that attract the attention of senior citizens. AMAC offers lower membership fees, greater health and wellness benefits, and competitive travel deals which have positioned it as a formidable competitor of AARP.
AARP vs. AMAC in the Political Sphere
Both AARP and AMAC are organizations that play a vital role in lobbying government to create policies that favor the interests and welfare of their members. However, the two organizations differ in their ideologies and political persuasions.
AARP, being a left-leaning organization, has been traditionally aligned with the Democratic Party. The organization has taken liberal positions on issues like healthcare, social security, and Medicare, advocating for more government involvement in these sectors. For instance, AARP strongly supports the Affordable Care Act, which was enacted under the Obama administration.
On the other hand, AMAC, being a center-right organization, has been closely associated with the Republican Party. It has favored conservative approaches to issues like healthcare, social security, and Medicare. For example, AMAC has advocated for a free-market approach to healthcare with an emphasis on personal responsibility.
In the political sphere, both AARP and AMAC have some influence in shaping national policy and legislation. For example, their lobbyists meet with lawmakers and policymakers in Washington D.C. to advocate for their positions on various issues. However, the effectiveness of their lobbying may vary depending on the political makeup of Congress and the White House.
Another way that AARP and AMAC participate in the political process is by endorsing political candidates. AARP has a longstanding tradition of endorsing Democratic candidates in elections, particularly in races that affect the organization’s interests like Social Security. In contrast, AMAC has endorsed Republican candidates who support the organization’s conservative positions. For instance, in the 2018 midterm elections, AMAC endorsed several Republican Senators, including Ted Cruz and Mike Braun.
While both organizations have a considerable impact on policymaking, they face criticism from different quarters. Some progressive critics of AARP argue that its alignment with the Democratic Party harms its credibility and independence. Additionally, they believe that AARP has focused too much on maintaining entitlement programs like Social Security and Medicare, instead of advocating for broader social welfare policies.
Conversely, some conservative critics of AMAC argue that the organization fails to represent the interests of seniors adequately, particularly those who are economically disadvantaged. They also believe that the organization promotes an ideology that is out of touch with the current realities of the American healthcare system.
In conclusion, despite some similarities, AARP and AMAC are fundamentally different organizations with distinct political goals. AARP is a left-leaning organization that strongly supports government involvement in healthcare and social security programs, while AMAC is a center-right organization that advocates for a free-market approach to these issues. Both organizations play a significant role in shaping national policy, and their influence may vary depending on the political climate of the country.
Why Joining a Senior Organization is Important for Social Interaction
Socialization is vital for individuals of all ages, including seniors. As people age, their social circles tend to shrink due to various reasons such as retirement, health challenges, and the loss of friends and family. This can lead to feelings of isolation, loneliness, and depression. Joining a senior organization is an excellent way for seniors to meet new people and maintain social interaction. Seniors can join a local chapter of AMAC or AARP, which offer many benefits to their members.
AMAC and AARP offer their members the chance to connect with other seniors through various events, travel opportunities, and educational programs. These organizations also provide a platform for seniors to explore new interests and hobbies, as well as volunteer opportunities that could lead to lasting friendships.
For example, AMAC hosts seminars on topics such as health and wellness, investment planning, and retirement. By attending these seminars, seniors can learn more about these topics while also meeting other members with similar interests. AARP provides members with access to its online community, where they can communicate with other seniors, share stories, and seek advice.
In addition to social benefits, joining a senior organization provides members with a sense of purpose. These organizations advocate for seniors’ rights and work to improve their quality of life. By participating in these organizations’ efforts, seniors can stay active and engaged in their communities while also feeling like they are making a difference.
Overall, joining a senior organization, whether AMAC or AARP, can be an excellent way for seniors to maintain social interaction, explore new interests, and find a sense of purpose. Both organizations offer a wide array of benefits to their members, which seniors can take advantage of to enhance their lives.
