(BPT) - AARP's 2026 Longevity Report found that adults older than 50 provided the equivalent of $1.2 trillion in unpaid care and volunteering in 2024. Additionally, findings show that this age group also contributed $12.5 trillion to the economy. Not only does this cohort have spending power, they also support younger generations as a way of direct cost savings.
As this age group moves toward later-life stages, their spending will shift to caregiving and housing considerations, along with other essential needs that support a longer lifespan. Whether older adults are supporting adult children and grandchildren in the currently difficult economy or starting to think about future spending on their own care, there is a need to save in practical ways whenever possible.
"We often don't think about all the daily essentials that keep our lives running," said Lifestyle & Emerging Businesses Senior Vice President at AARP Services Jason Mugg. "Yet, as the cost of these necessities add up — from groceries and vehicle maintenance to the health of you and your loved ones — with AARP member benefits, you could find savings on your everyday needs so you can continue to not only contribute to your family, but save for your future needs."
1. Gourmet Meals for Tasty Deals. As prices rise at the grocery store, making (and sticking to) a meal budget can be difficult if you want high-quality items. With bistroMD, AARP members not only save time, but also get 50% off plus free shipping on your first bistroMD meal delivery order and 10% off on future prepared meal orders. bistroMD delivers delicious, doctor-designed and chef-inspired meals directly to your door, so you can skip the cooking and keep the savings.
2. Fuel Your Savings. No matter how old or new your car is, cars require almost as much care as we do. Whether you're fueling up, moving out, or getting a routine checkup, AARP member benefits can help you save on your vehicle needs in more ways than one. With gas prices still soaring, AARP members can save at the pump with Shell. When you link your Shell Fuel Rewards® account to your AARP membership, you can enjoy ongoing savings with Complimentary Gold Status — including at least 5¢ off per gallon on your fill-ups at participating Shell stations. AARP members who are new to the Fuel Rewards® program can also receive a one-time savings of 50¢/gallon* on their first fill-up (up to 20 gallons).
Time for an oil change? Don't ignore the reminder light on your dashboard, because Valvoline has just what you need. AARP members save 15% off drive-thru, stay-in-your-car oil changes — including a free 18-point maintenance check with every oil change*. The discount also applies toward preventative maintenance services — including radiator, transmission and differential services, air filter or wiper blade replacements. It excludes batteries and state inspection services.
If you're moving to a new location and want to keep your car, AARP members who use Montway Auto Transport can save $100 off car shipping over 500 miles and $50 on car shipping up to 500 miles. Montway offers free quotes, door-to-door service, guaranteed pickup dates, and a TruePrice Guarantee that locks in your booked price for 30 days.
3. Protect Your Health and Your Wealth. Prioritizing mental health is not a once-in-a-while thing, it's an everyday effort. With adults older than 50 making so many contributions to caregiving — such as volunteering or caring for their grandchildren — it is important that they remember to take care of themselves, too. AARP members can use qualifying insurance* or get 30% off the first month** by paying directly with BetterHelp, an online therapy platform with a network of licensed therapists. Plus, three months of BetterSleep are included at no extra cost. BetterHelp does not accept any Medicare, Medicare Advantage or Medicare Supplement plans. *Insurance availability, coverage, and cost may vary by state, plan, provider network, therapist availability, and deductible status. **Offer valid for first time users only. Cannot be combined with insurance.
4. Fetch Everyday Deals. Taking care of your household? Make sure your four-legged family members are covered, too! Health problems with pets can be unexpected and expensive, but with Fetch, AARP members save 10% on monthly premiums for the lifetime of their pet's policy. Up to 90% of unexpected vet bills for accidents and illnesses is reimbursed — including 100% on qualifying pet meds. Additional pet health and wellness savings of up to $1,500 a year are provided through discounts on pet food, training, grooming and more. From now through August 31, Fetch Pet Insurance is donating $10 to a life-saving shelter on behalf of every AARP member that gets a free quote. Protect your pet, save on vet bills, and help pets in need.
No matter what everyday expense you want to save on, taking advantage of your AARP members benefits will help you save. Learn more about additional discounts for AARP members by visiting https://www.aarp.org/membership/benefits.
*Terms Apply.
AARP and its affiliates are not insurers, agents, brokers or producers. AARP member benefits are provided by third parties, not by AARP or its affiliates. Providers pay a royalty fee to AARP for the use of its intellectual property. These fees are used for the general purposes of AARP. Some provider offers are subject to change and may have restrictions. Please contact the provider directly for details.
