AARP Issues Important to All Generations

RALEIGH – North Carolina State University senior Josh Smith is thinking beyond just landing a first job when he graduates this spring. He plans to utilize the skills he developed at the University to push for needed policy improvements in order to help older adults live the lives they want to live as they age.

Smith said one reason why he wanted to work at AARP is because they are working to promote easier ways to save for retirement. “As college students continue to take on more student loans to afford their education, it is important that we remain aware of our finances and plan ahead in order to avoid debt and save for the future,” he said.

Smith said, “A big problem that threatens retirement security costs the state billions of dollars in avoidable costs is the emptiness of retirement savings accounts.”

According to a 2018 study by Northwestern Mutual, 21% of Americans have no retirement savings and an additional 10% have less than $5,000 in savings. A third of Baby Boomers currently in, or approaching, retirement age have between nothing and $25,000 set aside for themselves.

Boosting retirement savings not only helps improve financial security as we age, it saves programs like Medicaid and others that assist limited-income older adults. That is why AARP has been helping lead the state’s efforts to find easier ways for small businesses to offer workers retirement savings options through automatic payroll deductions. AARP is part of a legislative study committee on an NC Small Business Retirement Program. The Committee will make recommendations to the state legislature this year about the best plan for NC businesses and their employees.

Smith also sees many students and recent university graduates with aging parents or grandparents who have already taken on the responsibilities as family caregivers. “Family caregivers, especially those who are balancing that with other needs such as school or a job, need support. That is why I want to help push for added recognition and support that can help caregivers and their loved one remain in their homes and communities.”

AARP North Carolina Director Michael Olender said, “With AARP working to make communities better places for all ages, many younger people are getting involved in the AARP Network of Age-Friendly Communities. Network partners are working with AARP and others to improve transportation options, the use of open spaces, the walkability of cities, towns, rural areas and much more.”

As a graduate of Green Hope High School in Cary, Smith has been able witness and experience growth of the area and is pleased that Wake County joined the AARP Network of Age-Friendly Communities. “Things like social connectivity, crosswalks and sidewalks for walking, safe lanes for biking, and the use of public parks not only help older adults but they benefit people of all ages.”

Smith states in conclusion, “With so much at stake when it comes to our futures, supporting family caregivers and saving more seem like good places to start. AARP is the perfect place to help my generation prepare.”