As of November 1, 2025, millions of Americans—including many older adults—may not receive their monthly food benefits through the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) due to the ongoing federal government shutdown. This disruption affects individuals living on fixed incomes, many of whom rely on SNAP to afford groceries and maintain their health.
November is National Family Caregivers Month—a time to honor the millions of Floridians who provide essential care to loved ones, often without recognition or support. At AARP Florida, we’re proud to stand with family caregivers and advocate for resources, policies, and protections to provide them the peace of mind that they need.
AARP Florida’s latest nursing home quality report reveals troubling trends as private investment group acquisitions reshape the state’s long-term care sector.
AARP Florida is expressing strong concerns about Florida Power & Light’s (FPL) newly filed settlement agreement, noting that it prioritizes corporate and business interests over the needs of residential customers.
Report Finds Systemic Gaps in Florida in Affordability and Access, Support for Family Caregivers, and Access to Housing Assistance for People with Disabilities.
TALLAHASSEE – Sept. 20, 2023 – Zayne Smith, Director of Advocacy for AARP Florida, has been recognized as being one of 41 exceptional women across the state for her accomplishments in government and public service.
When AARP volunteer Ira Turner took the mound at Jackie Robinson Ballpark this summer to throw the ceremonial first pitch at a Daytona Tortugas minor league game, he was right at home. Why? Because he was being honored as the AARP Volunteer of the Week on the very same field he played collegiately – just the start of his incredible professional baseball career.
Bob Busch readily admits he could survive without Social Security. Between his Air Force pension and savings, he has enough to get by. But as a certified volunteer AARP tax aide, he has helped hundreds of Floridians file their income taxes and knows that’s not the case for everyone.
When Cheryl Jefferson decided to retire nine years ago, she and her husband were determined to stay busy. ”I knew upfront that I was not going to be a couch potato,” says Jefferson, a retired mortgage banker. “I was going to get involved with something and I was so happy that I got connected with AARP. I’ve been full speed ever since.”
August 14 marks the 88th birthday of the Social Security Act. The initial goal of the Social Security Act hoped to provide a "comprehensive package of protection" against the "hazards and vicissitudes of life." Now, that money is often used to help cover living expenses and pay bills.
AARP Florida recently welcomed two new communications experts to the team. Rick DelaHaya will serve as Director of Communications for Florida, and Maryanna Antoldi will serve as Associate State Director of Communications in the Orlando and Jacksonville regions.
After retiring from his job in aviation, Ken Thomas, 69, volunteered to help at an AARP convention in Florida. “They liked what they saw in me, and I enjoyed what I saw in AARP,” he says.