AARP’s New CEO, Dr. Myechia Minter-Jordan, Sets Bold Agenda to Protect Social Security, Medicare, and Champion Aging with Dignity
The AARP, a long-standing advocate for Americans aged 50 and older, has appointed Dr. Myechia Minter-Jordan as its new CEO, signaling a focused commitment to tackling the critical issues affecting the nation’s aging population. With over 110 million older adults across the U.S. and nearly 10,000 Americans turning 65 daily, the importance of supporting financial, physical, and mental well-being for seniors has reached unprecedented levels. Dr. Minter-Jordan’s leadership arrives at a pivotal moment, as AARP navigates the impacts of rising healthcare costs, economic strain, and shifts in federal health policies under the latest presidential administration.
Minter-Jordan, who previously led the CareQuest Institute for Oral Health and The Dimock Center in Massachusetts, brings a wealth of experience and a robust vision. She emphasized her priority to “work with Washington and states around the country to protect Social Security and Medicare” and to empower older adults to age with “dignity and on their own terms.” Under her leadership, AARP will also focus on providing stronger support for caregivers. With over 48 million Americans currently serving as unpaid caregivers, AARP is committed to easing the emotional and financial burdens associated with caregiving. Minter-Jordan aims to expand resources for these caregivers through bipartisan legislation such as the Credit for Caring Act and advocate for caregiver tax credits to reduce their financial load.
Dr. Minter-Jordan also addresses a pressing issue in today’s workforce—ageism. Nearly 20% of Americans over 65 are active in the workforce, bringing valuable experience and loyalty to companies. Research underscores the effectiveness of intergenerational teams, which often surpass performance expectations. Despite their contributions, older workers frequently encounter age-related biases in hiring and workplace support. Minter-Jordan calls on businesses to recognize the value of older employees, highlighting the need for policies that foster inclusivity and provide resources for workers across all ages. By doing so, companies can strengthen their workforce and benefit from the wisdom and commitment of experienced employees.
As she embarks on her tenure, Dr. Minter-Jordan reinforces the collective strength and influence of Americans over 50, a group that contributed $8.3 trillion to the economy in 2018—a figure expected to rise to nearly $27 trillion by 2050. With this economic power and high voter turnout, older Americans hold significant sway over policies that shape the nation. AARP, under Minter-Jordan's leadership, is set to advocate tirelessly for the policies and protections needed to ensure a more secure, inclusive, and dignified future for all older adults.
