AARP response to Social Security, Medicare reports

Washington, DC — AARP CEO Jo Ann Jenkins made a statement in response to the Social Security and Medicare Trustees’ reports released Tuesday:

“Social Security and Medicare remain critical to the income and health security of all Americans, and today’s reports again show that while the programs remain strong, there are challenges ahead for the long term. We need to work together in a bipartisan manner to strengthen these vital social insurance programs to ensure they can meet their benefit promises for current and future generations.  

“In particular, we need to take further steps to lower the cost of health care, especially the ever-rising price of prescription drugs. No good reason exists for Americans to continue paying the highest brand name drug prices in the world. High-priced drugs hurt Americans of all ages, and seniors, who on average take 4.5 medications a month, are particularly vulnerable.

“During this election year, AARP will be raising the profile of these and other key issues for age 50-plus voters.”  

A centerpiece of AARP’s voter engagement efforts is an online  voter pledge. The text of the pledge is as follows: “I pledge to be the difference and VOTE in the election this year. Every vote counts, and together, we the people can hold politicians accountable and make them pay attention to important issues like Medicare, Social Security, prescription drugs, caregiving, and financial security.”