AARP Washington

During Older Americans Month, Governor Jay Inslee proudly announced that Washington state has joined the AARP Network of Age-Friendly States and Communities and USAging’s Dementia-Friendly America networks. This significant step is a testament to our state's commitment to helping our residents age gracefully and thrive in their communities. These designations are the result of a continuous and dedicated collaboration between Washington State’s Department of Health, the Department of Social and Health Services, and the Health Care Authority.

As we continue to navigate these challenging times, it’s essential to prioritize mental well-being. This is especially true for older adults, who may be reluctant to seek support due to stigma, misconceptions about mental health services, and lack of awareness about available resources. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) offers multiple programs aimed at improving the mental health and well-being of all ages.

Nearly 1.5 million Washingtonians rely on Social Security income to make ends meet. However, Gen X Americans, set to retire in the mid-2030s, will be the first generation that may suffer from Social Security’s long-term financial challenge. Their retirement security and those of subsequent generations, including our children and grandchildren, are at stake.

Washington's "Caring for Caregivers" video podcast series features discussions with local experts, community leaders, and caregivers just like you on a range of topics to help you along your caregiving journey.

Washington's "Caring for Caregivers" video podcast series features discussions with local experts, community leaders, and caregivers just like you on a range of topics to help you along your caregiving journey.

Organizers of the “Hello Auntie, Hello Uncle: Conversations With Our Elders” exhibit at Seattle’s Wing Luke Museum hope to broaden visitors’ perspectives on aging.

A year ago, in June of 2023, the AARP Washington state office welcomed a new intern, Jaelyn Sotelo. We are now coming to the end of her time with us as an intern, and, looking back, we truly don't know how we did things without her. She has been instrumental in coordinating volunteer activities, making sure our community events hit all the high points and helping us full-timers keep track of the many things that make up a "day-in-the-life" of AARP outreach.

AARP is working to educate members about benefits that are too often overlooked, such as property tax credits.

Family caregivers do remarkable things every day to care for their loved ones. We help with bathing and dressing, meal preparation, managing finances, transportation, grocery shopping, and so much more. There are more than 820,000 of us in Washington state performing this great labor of love – but it’s not without its challenges. It can be stressful and time consuming - and it can also feel incredibly isolating at times. Some of us might feel like we’re in it all on our own.

Are you or your loved one facing challenges paying for Medicare costs? There’s help for that. You may be eligible for a program that could save you more than $2,100 a year.