Resources for Adult Seniors

A Review of Resources for Older Adults in America

This briefing document reviews seven sources concerning the needs and interests of older adults in America. The analysis reveals a multifaceted landscape of concerns, including financial security, access to healthcare, social engagement, and political representation. A thematic breakdown follows:

Theme 1: Financial Security & Access to Benefits

Several sources highlight the financial vulnerability of older adults and the need for assistance in navigating complex benefit programs.

• Justice in Aging emphasizes the prevalence of senior poverty, stating that "45% of Americans Over 65 Have Trouble Meeting their Basic Needs." The organization advocates for policy changes and legal action to address this issue.
• BenefitsCheckUp, a tool offered by the National Council on Aging (NCOA), helps seniors identify and apply for benefits programs like SNAP, Medicare Savings Programs, and Medicaid. The website stresses its comprehensiveness: "BenefitsCheckUp® is the nation’s most comprehensive online tool to connect older adults and people with disabilities to benefits."
• Investor.gov, a website of the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, provides resources specifically tailored to older investors, recognizing the unique challenges they face in managing their finances.

Theme 2: Healthcare & Medicare

Access to affordable and quality healthcare is another prominent theme, particularly regarding Medicare.

• Medicare.gov, the official U.S. government website for Medicare, provides comprehensive information about the program, including plan options, coverage details, and recent policy changes. The site emphasizes timely updates, urging visitors to "Don’t wait for important Medicare information."
• AMAC, a conservative alternative to AARP, positions itself as an advocate for seniors regarding healthcare issues. Its website features articles on Medicare Advisory Services and promotes various insurance products.

Theme 3: Social Engagement & Community

Combating social isolation and promoting active aging is a key focus for several organizations.

• SeniorNet aims to bridge the digital divide for older adults by providing technology training and fostering online communities. The organization believes that "People need to connect with others and stay engaged to thrive."
• The Soaring Society of America offers a unique approach to active aging through gliding. It promotes learning to soar as a way for seniors to remain physically and mentally active while being part of a passionate community.

Theme 4: Political Advocacy & Representation

Some organizations explicitly engage in political advocacy on behalf of seniors.

• AMAC proudly identifies as "the voice of conservative Americans" and claims to "fight for the values that make America Great." The organization mobilizes its members to advocate for policies aligned with their conservative viewpoints.
• NAOCS similarly targets conservative seniors, promising to "get you opportunities that will bless you and empower your family." The website highlights a "Your Voice Heard in Washington" initiative and encourages political engagement.

Key Observations

• There is a clear need for accessible, easy-to-understand information and resources to help seniors navigate complex financial and healthcare systems.
• Social isolation and technological disparities among older adults are significant concerns that require attention.
• Political advocacy organizatio

Transcript

Speaker 1: 0:19

All right, Welcome to your deep dive. You know, it looks like you've been doing some research on resources for seniors in 2025. Mm-hmm, yeah, you've sent us this collection of websites and articles. It's amazing Advocacy groups, government sites, even service providers. Oh wow, it seems like you're trying to map out the whole landscape, maybe for yourself or for you know someone you're close to.

Speaker 2: 0:40

Yeah Well, there's a lot there, so we brought in an expert to help us break it all down.

Speaker 1: 0:49

It's definitely a complicated world out there it is, but that's why we're here. Yeah, you know, help make sense of it all Exactly, and the first thing that jumped out at me going through this stuff was how well, how politically charged some of these advocacy groups are.

Speaker 2: 0:59

Oh yeah.

Speaker 1: 1:00

Like A&P. You know A&P really stresses their conservative side. They even position themselves as like the alternative to AARP.

Speaker 2: 1:11

It's interesting, isn't it?

Speaker 1: 1:12

It is.

Speaker 2: 1:12

It really shows that senior advocacy is about more than just like practical support.

Speaker 1: 1:18

Yeah.

Speaker 2: 1:18

You know what I mean. It's about aligning with well certain values and ideologies. Exactly.

Speaker 1: 1:24

And speaking of values NAOCS another group that you sent us Right they also talk a lot about their commitment to traditional values. They even encourage their members to get involved. You know like participate in the political process.

Speaker 2: 1:37

What I find really fascinating is this idea of well senior advocacy groups as platforms for political engagement. You know so many seniors feel like their concerns are just ignored. Right, and these organizations? They give them a way to you know, to actually be heard.

Speaker 1: 1:54

Yeah, it's like this intersection.

Speaker 2: 1:56

Yeah. Between social services and political activism. And that makes it even more important to you know, really understand the nuances of each group, what they stand for, Right, okay, so we've got this whole political layer to think about, right?

Speaker 1: 2:10

But then, on top of that, there's also just this incredible variety of benefits and services oh for sure that are being offered. It's, I mean, everything we're talking about Medicare advisory services, health insurance, discounts on, I kid you, not my pillow.

Speaker 2: 2:25

Cell phone plans. I mean you name it.

Speaker 1: 2:27

Yeah, it's definitely a lot to keep track of. It can feel yeah, overwhelming, there's a whole universe of help out there, but it takes a bit of savviness to navigate it.

Speaker 2: 2:37

Absolutely. You've got to know what's out there and what works for you, right?

Speaker 1: 2:39

Exactly.

Speaker 2: 2:50

Like AMC, for example, they offer emergency assistance if you're traveling. Oh wow, protection against identity theft. Then you've got justice and aging. They're focused on legal advocacy for seniors um facing poverty and senior net, which I thought was really interesting yeah they're tackling social isolation through technology training oh that's cool and community building.

Speaker 1: 3:05

It just shows that senior resources you know it's more than just the typical senior specific things.

Speaker 2: 3:11

Yeah.

Speaker 1: 3:12

It's about well-being.

Speaker 2: 3:13

Right, right.

Speaker 1: 3:14

Like all of it, financial, social, physical, even political.

Speaker 2: 3:18

Right, it's, it's multifaceted.

Speaker 1: 3:20

Exactly, and speaking of well-being. Yeah one area that several of your sources highlight. I think this is really interesting.

Speaker 2: 3:27

Is financial stability in later life.

Speaker 1: 3:29

Yeah.

Speaker 2: 3:29

It's so important.

Speaker 1: 3:30

It is.

Speaker 2: 3:31

Like NCOA, reports that something like 45% of seniors actually struggle to, you know, make ends meet.

Speaker 1: 3:37

Wow, that's a big number.

Speaker 2: 3:39

It, is it really?

Speaker 1: 3:44

underscores how important you know financial security is to overall well-being, especially as we age. Right, it's not just about having enough money. It's that feeling of security, absolutely, of having the resources to you know, live comfortably and independently.

Speaker 2: 3:57

It all ties in, it does, and that's why we see, you know, financial wellness and advocacy emerging as such prominent themes in the stuff you sent.

Speaker 1: 4:07

Yeah, like ABAC, for instance.

Speaker 2: 4:08

Yeah.

Speaker 1: 4:09

They really emphasize advocating for social security.

Speaker 2: 4:12

Oh, that's good.

Speaker 1: 4:13

And then there's this government website, investorgov. They offer well tools. Okay, like a required minimum distribution calculator.

Speaker 2: 4:19

Now that might seem like a really specific tool, yeah, but for someone who is, you know, planning their retirement finances, it could be so valuable it could be yeah. And it shows how important it is to you know, look beyond just the surface, yeah, and really explore these resources.

Speaker 1: 4:35

Don't take them for granted.

Speaker 2: 4:36

Yeah, you never know what you might find.

Speaker 1: 4:39

Exactly. And that brings us to some of the, I guess, more unexpected sources that you included Exactly.

Speaker 2: 4:43

And that brings us to some of the I guess more unexpected sources that you included? Yeah, Like what.

Speaker 1: 4:48

Like the Soaring Society of America.

Speaker 2: 4:50

The what Soaring.

Speaker 1: 4:50

Society of America. Oh wow, yeah, it's a community of glider pilots.

Speaker 2: 4:53

Really.

Speaker 1: 4:54

Many of whom are seniors.

Speaker 2: 4:55

What's so cool about that is that it just totally challenges our ideas about aging. It really does, you know. It shows that that this time of life can be about, you know, new passions, pushing boundaries, experiencing. You know, the joy of flight.

Speaker 1: 5:12

It reminds us that aging isn't just about limitations and decline.

Speaker 2: 5:16

Right.

Speaker 1: 5:16

It's about finding new ways to thrive and you know and embrace life.

Speaker 2: 5:20

And that's a powerful message.

Speaker 1: 5:22

It is.

Speaker 2: 5:22

Speaking of powerful, you know it's also interesting to look at the different roles that government and nonprofits play.

Speaker 1: 5:28

Yeah.

Speaker 2: 5:29

You know supporting seniors, you included Medicaregov in your materials. Right, which is like the official website for Medicare, and then you've got Benefits Checkup, which is run by NCOA, a nonprofit.

Speaker 1: 5:42

OK, so they both, it seems, offer help with Medicare.

Speaker 2: 5:46

Yeah.

Speaker 1: 5:47

But what's the difference?

Speaker 2: 5:48

Well, medicaregov, that's your go-to for the official information, plan details, how to enroll all that. But it can be really I don't know dense and confusing, hard to navigate.

Speaker 1: 6:02

So that's where a nonprofit like NCOA comes in, exactly so. Benefits checkup helps people, you know, figure out their options, find the resources that work for them.

Speaker 2: 6:10

Yeah, so it could be Medicare, savings programs, medicaid, even help with you know, prescription drug costs.

Speaker 1: 6:17

And I see here they even offer help from benefits enrollment specialists. Really yeah, free, confidential and unbiased help.

Speaker 2: 6:24

Oh, that's great.

Speaker 1: 6:25

Yeah, it's like having your own personal guide To help you through all the complexities.

Speaker 2: 6:29

It is, and it just shows the importance of understanding all the players and how they all work together.

Speaker 1: 6:36

We've covered a lot Wow Political landscape, all those services, financial wellness, the roles of government and nonprofits.

Speaker 2: 6:45

It's amazing.

Speaker 1: 6:46

And there's so much more to explore.

Speaker 2: 6:48

There is.

Speaker 1: 6:50

Stick with us for part two.

Speaker 2: 6:51

Okay.

Speaker 1: 6:52

Where we're going to delve deeper into specific resources and, you know just uncover even more insights to help you navigate this whole journey.

Speaker 2: 7:01

Sounds good. Welcome back to your deep dive into the world of senior resources. I'm excited to continue unpacking these materials with you.

Speaker 1: 7:09

Yeah, it's like we've stumbled upon this treasure trove of information and we're just like starting to scratch the surface.

Speaker 2: 7:16

You know, remember how we were talking about AMAC and how they really emphasize their conservative stance.

Speaker 1: 7:23

Yeah, like compared to AARP.

Speaker 2: 7:25

Yeah, yeah, let's dig into that a bit more. Like what does that actually mean, you know, in terms of the services that they offer?

Speaker 1: 7:31

Yeah, I'm curious about that, Like what sets them apart? Besides, you know the political side of things.

Speaker 2: 7:36

Well, one thing that really jumps out is their focus on their Medicare advisory service. They really make it seem like you know it's the best way to navigate Medicare.

Speaker 1: 7:45

Interesting, and they offer a range of insurance options too, right.

Speaker 2: 7:48

Yes, they do.

Speaker 1: 7:49

Like I saw something about life insurance for people under 65 and even a social security advisor program.

Speaker 2: 7:55

Exactly. It seems like they have a pretty, you know, comprehensive approach to financial planning and security which you know aligns with their conservative values.

Speaker 1: 8:06

It's not all you know, just traditional benefits either.

Speaker 2: 8:08

No.

Speaker 1: 8:09

Like they even have a partnership with MyPillow.

Speaker 2: 8:11

Really.

Speaker 1: 8:12

Yeah, offering members discounts on their products.

Speaker 2: 8:17

Wow, that's a great example of how these advocacy groups are going beyond. Just like practical assistance.

Speaker 1: 8:21

Right.

Speaker 2: 8:22

They're building a community, and even a lifestyle, around shared values.

Speaker 1: 8:26

Yeah, it's like they're really targeting a specific demographic.

Speaker 2: 8:29

Exactly. And NAOCS, another group you sent over. They take that idea even further.

Speaker 1: 8:34

Right.

Speaker 2: 8:34

You know they have discounts on entertainment and travel, but they also provide a lot of political information and resources.

Speaker 1: 8:41

So it's about giving their members the tools to like to get involved and advocate for what they believe in.

Speaker 2: 8:48

Yeah, they want their members to be informed and active in the political process which is, you know, it's so important for seniors.

Speaker 1: 8:55

Yeah.

Speaker 2: 8:55

Who often feel like their voices aren't heard.

Speaker 1: 8:58

Advocacy definitely a big theme here.

Speaker 2: 9:00

It is.

Speaker 1: 9:01

But let's switch gears for a second Okay and talk about the more practical stuff.

Speaker 2: 9:05

Yeah.

Speaker 1: 9:06

Like health care, Of course, which can be a huge I mean a huge source of stress as we get older.

Speaker 2: 9:12

Absolutely. Health care is so complicated, especially for seniors, you know, trying to figure it all out.

Speaker 1: 9:23

You included Medicaregov in your research Right, which is like a great place to start if you're, you know, trying to understand.

Speaker 2: 9:25

Medicare. It is. It's the official website. It's got all the details you know enrollment, the different plans, all of that.

Speaker 1: 9:32

But I can imagine it could be pretty overwhelming.

Speaker 2: 9:34

It can be.

Speaker 1: 9:35

Trying to do it all on your own.

Speaker 2: 9:36

That's where a resource like Benefits Checkup can be really helpful.

Speaker 1: 9:39

Oh yeah.

Speaker 2: 9:40

Remember how we talked about how nonprofits can bridge the gap, you know, between the government and what people actually need.

Speaker 1: 9:47

Yeah, benefits Checkup is a perfect example. So Benefits Checkup, they help you figure out what programs you're eligible for Exactly. Could be Medicare, savings programs, medicaid, even assistance with prescription drug costs.

Speaker 2: 10:02

It's amazing all the help that's out there.

Speaker 1: 10:04

It is. And they offer personalized support too, right they? Do From these benefits enrollment specialists.

Speaker 2: 10:10

Oh, wow.

Speaker 1: 10:11

Who can answer your questions, like guide you through the process.

Speaker 2: 10:13

That's great.

Speaker 1: 10:14

Yeah, it's striking how much of this conversation keeps coming back to financial stability.

Speaker 2: 10:34

It is, it's like a thread. It really is the foundation of aging well.

Speaker 1: 10:39

It impacts health care, your ability to live independently, even your chances to socialize and be a part of the community.

Speaker 2: 10:47

It affects everything.

Speaker 1: 10:48

That statistic from NCOA 45% of seniors struggling to it affects everything. That statistic from NCOA 45% of seniors struggling to make ends meet.

Speaker 2: 10:54

Yeah.

Speaker 1: 10:55

Really. I mean, it just highlights how critical this issue is.

Speaker 2: 10:59

It's a wake up call.

Speaker 1: 11:00

It is.

Speaker 2: 11:00

For anyone who is, you know, thinking about retirement it's not just about saving money, it's about being smart with your money.

Speaker 1: 11:08

Yeah.

Speaker 2: 11:09

Understanding your options and protecting yourself, you know, from scams.

Speaker 1: 11:13

And that's where something like Investorgov can be so valuable.

Speaker 2: 11:17

Yeah, it's a great reason.

Speaker 1: 11:18

They have a ton of tools and tips for managing your finances Right, Including that that required minimum distribution calculator that we mentioned before.

Speaker 2: 11:27

That's a perfect example of something that might seem I don't know kind of niche.

Speaker 1: 11:31

Yeah.

Speaker 2: 11:31

But could be super helpful for someone who's dealing with, you know, retirement withdrawals.

Speaker 1: 11:36

It's all about knowing where to look. Right, exactly, and finding those resources that can really make a difference.

Speaker 2: 11:41

Speaking of finding things, let's circle back to the Soaring Society.

Speaker 1: 11:45

Oh yeah.

Speaker 2: 11:46

I'm still fascinated by these seniors taking to the skies in gliders.

Speaker 1: 11:51

Me too. It really challenges what we think we know about aging.

Speaker 2: 11:56

It's a testament to the human spirit. You know our capacity for adventure and joy.

Speaker 1: 12:02

Yeah.

Speaker 2: 12:02

No matter how old we are.

Speaker 1: 12:04

And it shows how important it is to stay active. Yeah and engaged physically, mentally, throughout our lives.

Speaker 2: 12:11

And groups like the Soaring Society. They provide that they're not just a chance to pursue your passion, but a community of people who get it.

Speaker 1: 12:20

It's so easy to get caught up in the serious stuff like health care and finances, but we can't forget that, that this stage of life can be really amazing and rewarding too.

Speaker 2: 12:32

Forget that this stage of life can be really amazing and rewarding too it's about finding that balance between you know, practicality and passion, responsibility and adventure.

Speaker 1: 12:40

I think, as we continue this deep dive, that's something really important to keep in mind. Navigating senior resources isn't just about getting by.

Speaker 2: 12:49

No.

Speaker 1: 12:50

It's about thriving in.

Speaker 2: 12:51

Yeah.

Speaker 1: 12:51

In this new chapter.

Speaker 2: 12:52

Absolutely. And that brings us to the final part of our journey.

Speaker 1: 12:56

OK.

Speaker 2: 12:56

Where we'll distill everything we've learned into some you know key takeaways. Stick around for part three, yeah, when we'll wrap up this whole exploration with some practical advice and, well, some inspiration too.

Speaker 1: 13:08

Welcome back to the final part of our deep dive. Yeah, you know, it's amazing how much we've talked about, yeah, from the politics of those advocacy groups to all the services out there and that whole idea of, you know, financial wellness.

Speaker 2: 13:23

I know right, it's a lot.

Speaker 1: 13:25

We've looked at AMAC, NAOCS, figured out Medicare with Medicaregov and benefits checkup and even explored, you know, those unique communities like the Soaring Society.

Speaker 2: 13:36

Yeah, that was pretty cool.

Speaker 1: 13:38

It's been. It's been quite a journey. But as we wrap up, I'm curious what are the the big takeaways for you listening, what should you really remember as you, as you navigate all these senior resources?

Speaker 2: 13:50

Hmm, I think the most important thing is to be proactive.

Speaker 1: 13:54

Okay.

Speaker 2: 13:54

You know, don't wait for things to happen.

Speaker 1: 13:57

Take charge. So do your research, figure out what your options are, and don't be afraid to speak up for yourself.

Speaker 2: 14:03

Exactly, and remember there's a ton of support out there, so don't be shy about asking for help.

Speaker 1: 14:08

Yeah, whether it's a benefits enrollment specialist or a financial advisor, or even just a friend or family member you trust.

Speaker 2: 14:15

Right, there are people who can help you through all of this.

Speaker 1: 14:19

It's also important to remember that you know aging well. It's not a one-size-fits-all thing.

Speaker 2: 14:24

No, it's not.

Speaker 1: 14:25

What works for one person might not work for another. Yeah, right. So explore, you know, try different things and find what really fits you, your values your priorities, what you want to achieve.

Speaker 2: 14:39

You might find that joining a group like AMAC or NAOCS feels right, you know, based on your political beliefs. Or maybe you'll get a lot out of using tools like Benefits Checkup or Investorgov to manage your money.

Speaker 1: 14:48

And who knows, maybe you'll find yourself up in the air with the Soaring Society, showing everyone that age is just a number. I love that the key is to stay curious, stay informed and just be open to new things.

Speaker 2: 14:59

I agree.

Speaker 1: 15:00

This whole world of senior resources. It's always changing, right.

Speaker 2: 15:04

Mm-hmm.

Speaker 1: 15:04

New programs, technologies opportunities popping up all the time.

Speaker 2: 15:08

It's exciting.

Speaker 1: 15:09

It really is exciting to think about all the possibilities. Yeah, is popping up all the time, it's exciting. It really is exciting to think about all the possibilities. Yeah, you know, this part of life can be full of adventure, growth and just real fulfillment.

Speaker 2: 15:17

I think so too.

Speaker 1: 15:19

And, as we've seen throughout this deep dive, it's not just about, you know, getting those services. It's about being engaged, being empowered and never stopping learning.

Speaker 2: 15:28

I couldn't have said it better myself.

Speaker 1: 15:29

So, as you move forward, you know well the knowledge from this exploration. Remember the best is yet to come.

Speaker 2: 15:35

Absolutely. Don't just navigate this landscape, shape it. Create the future that you want, the future that you deserve.

Speaker 1: 15:42

And that's it for this deep dive. Thanks for joining us and remember to keep exploring all that's out there for you.