A Lasting Legacy: How Ethel Percy Andrus's Vision Continues to Shape Aging

Ethel Percy Andrus was more than a leader; she was a visionary woman who changed the way America views aging. Andrus was the first female high school principal in California and the founder of AARP, dedicating her life to empowering people to choose how they live as they age. Her work in healthcare, financial security, community engagement, and lifelong learning continues to shape lives — including here in Oregon.

March is Women's History Month, making it the perfect time to reflect on Andrus' legacy and beliefs. She stood by the idea that aging is a triumph rather than a defeat, and this remains at the core of AARP's mission. As Andrus said, "Old age is not a defeat, but a victory — not a punishment, but a privilege." In Oregon, her legacy lives on through the several policies, programs, and support systems that empower older adults to live fulfilling lives.

Healthcare Access and Affordability

Andrus understood that healthcare was essential to aging with dignity. She founded the National Retired Teachers Association (NRTA) in 1947 to provide health insurance for retired educators, having seen their pensions diminished by inflation and rising healthcare costs. Her efforts paved the way for the establishment of Medicare in 1965.

AARP Oregon continues Andrus's work by advocating for affordable, accessible, and high-quality care. These efforts include supporting the Inflation Reduction Act, which caps Medicare Part D out-of-pocket costs at $2,000, and advocating for legislation that lowers the out-of-pocket costs of insulin to $35 per month. Reflecting on Andrus' belief that quality healthcare is a right, not a privilege, AARP Oregon also backs the Prescription Drug Affordability Board (PDAB), which works to bring greater transparency and cost savings to Oregon consumers.

Financial Security for Older Adults

Andrus recognized that financial security is crucial for independence and peace of mind. In the mid-1940s, Andrus encountered a fellow educator living in unspeakable conditions—a backyard chicken coop. The woman's story and this encounter spurred Andrus's desire to establish the NRTA and fight for the financial security of older adults everywhere.

"From my friend of the chicken shed I learned that the inner strength with which she met hardship can make even penury bearable, that there may be great wealth in spirit with little in the purse," said Andrus.

Her work with the NRTA laid the foundation for AARP's advocacy in Social Security and retirement planning. In Oregon, AARP played a key role in creating OregonSaves, the nation's first state-based retirement savings program. The program automatically allows workers without employer-sponsored retirement plans to save for the future. Today, the program has saved over $200 million for the retirement of Oregonians. AARP Oregon also works to protect older workers from unfair labor practices and financial exploitation through legislation and awareness programs, such as the AARP Fraud Watch Network.

Community and Independent Living

Andrus believed aging should not mean isolation. "I believe that we cannot stress too strongly this problem that older people, on losing their dear ones, often face stark loneliness in our restless urban America," said Andrus. She explained that "magic medicine for the lonely" is the sense of community felt within AARP, highlighting the importance of social connection within communities.

Andrus was also responsible for the nation's first "universal design" home. She came up with the idea to encourage delegates at the first White House Conference on Aging to support housing development where people could live safely and comfortably as they age.

AARP Oregon upholds Andrus's beliefs by advocating for age-friendly communities where people of all ages can live and thrive. The AARP Network of Age-Friendly States and Communities promotes walkability, public transportation, and affordable housing. Oregon has already added Portland and Salem to the network and is working to expand further. Additionally, through Community Challenge grants, AARP funds quick-action projects that enhance public spaces, digital access, and transportation, reinforcing Andrus's vision that strong communities support people at every stage of life.

Education and Lifelong Learning

As an educator, Andrus valued lifelong learning. She advocated for educational programs that allowed older adults to continue learning and being social. In 1963, she founded AARP's Institute of Lifetime Learning to meet the intellectual needs of older adults and provide opportunities for them to enhance their skills and talents.

AARP Oregon furthers this mission by offering educational programs such as financial literacy workshops and technology training, helping older adults stay informed while providing opportunities for social connection. Through AARP volunteer networks, older adults can share knowledge and engage with their communities, fostering intergenerational learning and reflecting Andrus's belief that learning should never stop.

"Because we are older, have learned courage and have outwitted handicaps, we can help youth do a better job. They have the advantage of youth and idealism. We have the advantage of having made most of the mistakes that mankind can make, and having learned from them we now want, in the fullness of hope and love, to share old dreams with them," said Andrus.

Supporting Caregivers

Andrus emphasized that supporting caregivers is essential to the well-being of older adults and their families. After nearly three decades as a Los Angeles high school principal, Andrus retired in 1944 to care for her ailing mother. This decision profoundly shaped her understanding of caregiving, having a significant impact on her life and the lives of others.

AARP Oregon carried this understanding forward by advocating for the successful passage of Oregon's Paid Family and Medical Leave Act (Paid Leave Oregon) in 2019. Paid Leave Oregon provides up to 12 weeks of paid leave for workers to care for a new child, a seriously ill family member, or their own health condition. AARP Oregon emphasized that this policy was critical for caregivers, who often sacrifice their own financial stability to care for loved ones. Beyond legislation, AARP Oregon provides caregiver training and resources to ensure caregivers have the support they need to deliver high-quality care. These efforts embody Andrus's belief that older adults and their caregivers should have access to the resources they need.

Through AARP Oregon's ongoing work, Andrus's vision continues to thrive, inspiring and empowering communities.

Celebrate Inspiring Women in Your Community!

This Women’s History Month, we celebrate Andrus and the incredible women across Oregon who are making a meaningful impact in their communities. These inspiring women embody Andrus’s spirit of leadership and service.

Join us in honoring the remarkable women who are shaping Oregon’s future!