AARP Florida

This February, we recognize National Senior Independence Month. At AARP, we strive to create spaces where people of all ages can live independent, fulfilled lives. We are here to act as a wise friend and fierce defender for the 50+, and we aim to help you and your families feel confident, in control and secure as you age.

Many AARP members are proving that retirement is not about slowing down but a rallying cry to stay active, engaged and connected through friendly battles of wit, agility, and exercise…all with a dash of humor.

People of all ages, fitness levels, and backgrounds are welcome to these free, ongoing events. After a brief health discussion from a healthcare provider, participants will spend the rest of the time enjoying a healthy walk at their own pace. They are encouraged to ask health questions and socialize with others in a fun, relaxed setting.

AARP Florida continues to express concern over the quality of care provided to nursing home residents in Florida, especially in the aftermath of significant nurse staffing reductions mandated by the state legislature in recent years. Data recently released by federal agencies highlights a mixed record on the quality of care, particularly for short-term nursing home residents who require rehabilitation and care following hospital stays.

AARP Florida invites local eligible non-profit organizations and governments across the country to apply for the 2024 AARP Community Challenge grant program, now through March 6 at 5p.m. Eastern. AARP Community Challenge grants fund quick-action projects that help communities become more livable by improving public places, transportation, housing, digital connections, and more.

Just as New Year’s football bowl games are ending, we in Florida kick off a critical period in the state for older Floridians, with the 60-day 2024 Florida legislative session beginning January 9.

Today, AARP Florida released its 2024 legislative priorities, highlighting the importance of maintaining a well-trained direct care workforce, enhancing the quality and oversight of Florida’s long-term care system, expansion of home and community-based services and increasing consumer protections as top priorities for the AARP advocacy team and volunteer advocates.

Jeff Johnson is the State Director of AARP Florida. Johnson joined the AARP team in 2000 with a background in public relations, marketing and sales, working with the Tampa Bay (then) Devil Rays. Since 2010, he has served as the State Director of AARP Florida, leading a team of staff and volunteers across the state to fight for and equip Floridians 50+ to choose how they live as they age. A proud lifelong Floridian, he was raised in Jacksonville, and graduated Phi Beta Kappa from Wake Forest University. Johnson is a board member of the St. Petersburg College’s Institute for Strategic Policy Solutions, the President-elect of Florida Council on Aging, and is immediate past chair of the board of the Florida Civic Advance. He is active on social media and can be found on Twitter at @JeffPJohnsonFL.

AARP Florida is here to provide you with information on Long-Term Care in our state.

AARP Florida is warning people about election-related fraud targeting older voters, including requests for donations to fictitious political action committees and soliciting sensitive information during fake voter registration efforts.