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AARP The Magazine EXCLUSIVE: Rod Stewart, Still Rocking at 80, Gets Candid About Family, Healing, and Learning to Sing Again After Cancer Diagnosis

May 22, 2025/in Medicare News /by mgl

AARP The Magazine EXCLUSIVE: Rod Stewart, Still Rocking at 80, Gets Candid About Family, Healing, and Learning to Sing Again After Cancer Diagnosis

The rock legend reflects on re-learning how to sing, life beyond the stage and why turning 80 feels like a gift.

WASHINGTON—After more than five decades in the spotlight, legendary artist Rod Stewart reflects on a life filled with triumphs, challenges and his ever-lasting love for music. In the June/July 2025 issue of AARP The Magazine (ATM), the performer shares his deeply personal journey of recovery after battling cancer – and how the process of learning to sing again has completely transformed his connection to both his voice and legacy.

With over 250 million albums sold and decades spent on stages across the world, Stewart is one of rock’s most unmistakable voices and best-selling artists of all time. But after undergoing surgery and vocal rehab following a cancer diagnosis, he tells ATM, “I had to learn to trust my voice again. That’s not something I ever thought I’d have to do at this age” – a recovery that means starting over in ways he never expected.

The interview dives into Stewart’s reflections on family, his gratitude for slowing down, and why he’s embracing being 80 years old with pride, not fear.

The following are excerpts from ATM’s June/July 2025 cover story featuring Rod Stewart. The issue is available in homes starting in June and online now at www.aarp.org/magazine/.

On finding a new passion for gardening after a cancer diagnosis:

“’They didn’t tell me that when I went in for the operation,’ Stewart says now with a roll of his eyes. ‘Only when I came out.’ After the surgery, one of the world’s most famous singers was unable to sing. I seriously considered making my living by taking care of plants and trees. Not as rewarding as my first career, but a good way to stay active.”

On staying physically competitive at 80:

“To stay in shape and feed my competitive appetite, I recently began running 100-meter sprints on my private track. I got it down to 19 seconds by learning how to push off. I’m going to try and do 17 seconds, which I think is a world record for an 80-year-old.”

On staying motivated:

“There’s so much more music I want to create. I’ve got a covers album, a country album, and a Faces album all in the works. I just can’t stop. Even when I’m spending time with my grandkids, my passion for music drives me. I feel like I’ve done everything I’ve ever wanted, but there’s still more to come.”

On staying close with family through fame and fortune:

“My family seems like the archetype of one that didn’t have much money but was close and loving. I was the youngest by ten years, and I was given lots of attention, plus the odd chocolate now and then. Didn’t have much money, but it didn’t seem like a worry at the time. When I heard ‘Maggie May’ on the radio for the first time, I turned around and went all the way back to my mum and dad’s house to tell them. They started crying, and that was a magical moment. When I got a check for $1 million from Mercury Records, I showed it to them. And I took them everywhere with me.”

On embracing aging with energy and enthusiasm:

“When I feel I might be sick enough to cancel a concert, that’s when I go, ‘Maybe I’m getting old.’ Then a couple of days later, bang, I’m back at it again. I enjoy doing concerts more than I did back then. Maybe I’ve come full circle to appreciate how lucky I’ve been.”

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About AARP:

AARP is the nation’s largest nonprofit, nonpartisan organization dedicated to empowering Americans 50 and older to choose how they live as they age. With a nationwide presence, AARP strengthens communities and advocates for what matters most to the more than 100 million Americans 50-plus and their families: health security, financial stability and personal fulfillment. AARP also works for individuals in the marketplace by sparking new solutions and allowing carefully chosen, high-quality products and services to carry the AARP name. As a trusted source for news and information, AARP produces the nation’s largest circulation publications, AARP The Magazine and AARP Bulletin. To learn more, visit www.aarp.org/about-aarp/, www.aarp.org/español or follow @AARP, @AARPenEspañol and @AARPadvocates on social media.

AARP Bulletin: How Social Security and Medicare Transformed Aging in America

April 30, 2025/in Medicare News /by mgl

On Their Anniversaries, AARP Bulletin Details the History of the Programs and What AARP Is Doing to Secure Their Future.

WASHINGTON—Announced today, the AARP Bulletin May/June issue features a special cover story report about the 90^th anniversary of Social Security and the 60^th anniversary of Medicare. This issue includes not just a history of each program, but how they have defined aging in America. The cover story also includes crucial resources for readers to navigate the programs’ complexities, including detailed guides and professional insight, and helps beneficiaries maximize their benefits.

PLUS: In a letter to AARP members, CEO Dr. Myechia Minter-Jordan emphasizes the critical need to protect Social Security and Medicare. She highlights the programs’ roles in providing essential support to millions of Americans, stressing that any cuts or changes to these programs could have devastating effects on the well-being of older adults.

Also in the May/June 2025 issue:

Beware of Customer Service Scams: At the AARP Fraud Watch Network, customer service scams are “an everyday occurrence,” according to the group’s director of victim support, Amy Nofziger. It is the most reported type of scam – and it’s growing. Learn how to spot the signs and avoid the pitfalls in this issue.

The Financial Burden of a Spouse’s Death: On top of emotional trauma, many surviving spouses may also cope with financial losses. Numerous changes can occur, from higher taxes to lower credit scores. If you’re facing a financial crunch after your partner’s death, find this issue’s Your Money section for tips on what to do.

Helping Kids Read for 30 years: AARP Foundation launched Experience Corps in 1995. The program pairs elementary school students with older adults to improve the kids’ reading skills before the end of third grade. During the 2023-24 school year, over 1,000 volunteers helped nearly 3,700 kids become better readers. The volunteers describe rewarding experiences. Learn more about this volunteer opportunity and others in this month’s Bulletin.

Published bi-monthly, AARP Bulletin is the definitive news source for AARP’s members, delivering the story behind the key issues confronting Americans 50 and older, including health and health policy, Medicare, Social Security, consumer protection, work, personal finance, and AARP state and national news. Learn more at http://www.aarp.org/bulletin/.

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About AARP
AARP is the nation’s largest nonprofit, nonpartisan organization dedicated to empowering people 50 and older to choose how they live as they age. With a nationwide presence, AARP strengthens communities and advocates for what matters most to the more than 100 million Americans 50-plus and their families: health and financial security, and personal fulfillment. AARP also produces the nation’s largest-circulation publications: AARP The Magazine and AARP Bulletin. To learn more, visit www.aarp.org/about-aarp/, www.aarp.org/español or follow @AARP, @AARPenEspañol and @AARPadvocates on social media.

Exclusives From AARP The Magazine: Rob Lowe on Balancing a Dynamic Career with Personal Fulfillment at 61, How Glamping Elevates Your Outdoor Adventure in Style, and Patricia Clarkson’s Honorable New Role

March 26, 2025/in Medicare News /by mgl

Exclusives From AARP The Magazine: Rob Lowe on Balancing a Dynamic Career with Personal Fulfillment at 61, How Glamping Elevates Your Outdoor Adventure in Style, and Patricia Clarkson’s Honorable New Role

Plus: A federal database and other valuable tools helping older people recover unclaimed assets; and Lorraine Bracco reflects on her upbringing, family lessons, and comedic debut.

WASHINGTON— The April/May 2025 issue of AARP The Magazine (ATM) gives readers a closer look into the lives of their favorite celebrities and reveals some of the biggest trends of 2025.

The remarkable award-winning actor, podcast and game show host Rob Lowe graces the cover as he reflects on his acting journey. He also opens up about his relationship with his wife and kids, his path to 35 years of sobriety, and his commitment to breast cancer research. The issue’s Upfront series showcases five surprising things about Golden Globe-winning actress Patricia Clarkson, such as navigating her early years in New York City and taking on a powerful role as Lilly Ledbetter. Oscar-, Emmy-, and Golden Globe-nominated actress Lorraine Bracco, at 70, shares how her father played a key role in inspiring her to pursue a career in acting. Additionally, ATM travel experts share easy tips and must-have gear to make glamping simpler and stress-free.

Plus: ATM highlights the importance of reviewing your own finances.

In this issue of AARP The Magazine:

Rob Lowe
Rob Lowe, with more than four decades in the spotlight, continues to evolve both professionally and personally. In this issue of ATM, he reflects on his journey from 1980s teen heartthrob to versatile TV personality, now taking on new roles as a podcast and game show host. Lowe discusses his career, family, sobriety, and advocacy for breast cancer awareness. From The Outsiders and The West Wing to recent projects like Unstable and 9-1-1: Lone Star, he remains a celebrated force. He now shifted to hosting his podcast Literally!, has a new book on the way, and is currently hosting the trivia game show The Floor.

The A List: 5 Surprising Things About Patricia Clarkson

Golden Globe-winning actress Patricia Clarkson, now 65, shares some fascinating stories about her life. From navigating her early years in New York City to the challenges of unconventional living situations. She’s also taking on an inspirational role as Lilly Ledbetter, the courageous equal pay and women’s rights activist. For Patricia, this is more than just another performance, it is a tribute to her mother and celebration of women’s strength and resilience.

What I Know Now: Lorraine Bracco
Oscar-, Emmy-, and Golden Globe-nominated actress Lorraine Bracco reflects on her formative years and the pivotal role her father played in encouraging her to follow her dreams. Best known for starring in the legendary series The Sopranos and the hit Martin Scorsese film Goodfellas, the 70-year-old is now making her comedic debut in Nonnas, premiering on Netflix, May 9. Bracco shares genuine insights on life as a grandmother and the many lessons passed down from her parents. PLUS: Watch our exclusive video featuring Lorraine Bracco to hear more about her journey and insights.

Money Saver: Your Money, Lost Then Found
Have you lost track of a 401(k) or pension? A new federal database is making it easier for people to recover their hard-earned cash. AARP The Magazine details this database and other tools to help older American uncover unclaimed assets, including forgotten or dormant accounts, savings bonds, and back wages. This month, ATM goes in depth on this important financial health topic and helps readers find their missing money.

Explore The Wild: But Sleep in Style
ATM navigates the growing popularity of glamping (glamorous camping) as an age-friendly alternative to traditional outdoor experiences. This trend offers a comfortable and accessible way to enjoy nature, with accommodations such as luxury tents, boutique RV parks, and tiny homes that feature modern amenities like comfortable beds, climate control, and private bathrooms. These thoughtfully designed spaces allow travelers to truly take in the beauty of the outdoors without sacrificing comfort or convenience. The article features some of the most unique glamping destinations and popular parks across the United States including South Dakota’s Custer State Park, AutoCamp at Joshua Tree, Great Sand Dunes National Park, and more. ATM offers simple tips and essential gear recommendations to make camping more accessible and stress-free.

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About AARP
AARP is the nation’s largest nonprofit, nonpartisan organization dedicated to empowering Americans 50 and older to choose how they live as they age. With a nationwide presence, AARP strengthens communities and advocates for what matters most to the more than 100 million Americans 50-plus and their families: health security, financial stability and personal fulfillment. AARP also works for individuals in the marketplace by sparking new solutions and allowing carefully chosen, high-quality products and services to carry the AARP name. As a trusted source for news and information, AARP produces the nation’s largest circulation publications, AARP The Magazine and AARP Bulletin. To learn more, visit www.aarp.org/about-aarp/, www.aarp.org/español or follow @AARP, @AARPenEspañol and @AARPadvocates on social media.

AARP The Magazine EXCLUSIVE: Rob Lowe on Aging Gracefully and Finding Fulfillment at 61 – Both Professionally and Personally

March 20, 2025/in Medicare News /by mgl

AARP The Magazine EXCLUSIVE: Rob Lowe on Aging Gracefully and Finding Fulfillment at 61 – Both Professionally and Personally

The actor, podcast and game show host reflects on his acting journey, his 35 years of sobriety, and his deep connection with his family and commitment to cancer research

WASHINGTON—Rob Lowe, who has spent more than four decades in the spotlight, is embracing the joy of life as he continues to evolve in his career and personal life. In the April/May 2025 issue of AARP The Magazine (ATM), the actor, now also taking on roles as a podcast and game show host, discusses his journey from 1980s teen heartthrob to sought-after TV personality, while finding contentment in his 60s.

In addition to his career, Lowe also opens up about his relationship with his wife and kids, his path to sobriety, and his dedication and commitment to raising awareness around breast cancer.

Lowe first rose to fame as Sodapop Curtis in The Outsiders and became an iconic figure of 1980s youth cinema, with roles in St. Elmo’s Fire and About Last Night. In the ’90s, he expanded his career with roles in Wayne’s World, Contact, and Austin Powers, before his Emmy and Golden Globe-nominated performance on The West Wing. He later embraced new creative ventures, including a celebrated role on Parks and Recreation, voice work, and his one-man show Stories I Only Tell My Friends: Live! Recently, Lowe teamed up with his son, John Owen Lowe, for the comedy Unstable, and starred in 9-1-1: Lone Star.

Now, Lowe has shifted to hosting, with his podcast Literally! With Rob Lowe, the third season of Fox’s The Floor, as well as a third new book in the works, he tells ATM. “I want to find new things that are continually challenging me and reintroducing me to people who might not have even been born when West Wing came out.”

The following are excerpts from ATM’s February/March 2025 cover story featuring Rob Lowe. The issue is available in homes starting in April and online now at www.aarp.org/magazine/.

On his early entertainment ambitions:

“It’s a sense of being seen.” he says, “a sense of power and ability. I felt it the very first time I went on stage and got a laugh.”

On reuniting with Brats on-screen for the St. Elmo’s Fire sequel

“We made a movie that worked, exploring what we were like when we were 21…Let’s see what we’re like when we’re 61.”

On his 33-year marriage to celebrity makeup artist and jewelry designer Sheryl Berkoff:

“We both really work on it. You get your oil changed in a car before you need it. Therapy is a life hack for us.”

On raising his kids out of the spotlight:

“I had a vision of myself coaching Little League, which I did. I coached everything I could. It was one of my favorite things I did as a dad. And I didn’t want to look over on the sidelines and have the head of NBC over there, who I’m waiting to hear from, whether they’re going to renew my show for the fifth season.”

On his cancer research advocacy after losing his mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother to breast cancer:

“It feels like every decade there’s a new iteration of how I get to participate in the world to help people who are going through cancer, and it gives me a ton of satisfaction to help out.”

On what a rare “quiet” day looks like for him:

“I sleep in, have my coffee in bed. I do my prayers and meditation. I spend some time with the dogs. I go to the gym. I’ll check in on business. If nothing is pending, I’ll go and play a round of golf or surf, and then come back for dinner with my wife at home, and then she’ll want to watch TV. I’ll go to the firepit and have a cup of coffee or something like that, and then off to bed.”

# # #

About AARP:

AARP is the nation’s largest nonprofit, nonpartisan organization dedicated to empowering Americans 50 and older to choose how they live as they age. With a nationwide presence, AARP strengthens communities and advocates for what matters most to the more than 100 million Americans 50-plus and their families: health security, financial stability and personal fulfillment. AARP also works for individuals in the marketplace by sparking new solutions and allowing carefully chosen, high-quality products and services to carry the AARP name. As a trusted source for news and information, AARP produces the nation’s largest circulation publications, AARP The Magazine and AARP Bulletin. To learn more, visit www.aarp.org/about-aarp/, www.aarp.org/español or follow @AARP, @AARPenEspañol and @AARPadvocates on social media.

AARP Bulletin: How to Stay Safe and Fight Back Against the Latest Scams

March 10, 2025/in Medicare News /by mgl

Readers Stay Informed and Protected with the Annual Fraud Prevention Guide from AARP Bulletin

WASHINGTON—AARP Bulletin today announced its annual Fraud Prevention Guide, a comprehensive resource aimed at helping readers stay vigilant against the latest scams, leading the March/April issue. As artificial intelligence becomes more sophisticated, scams are becoming more difficult to spot. AARP Fraud Watch Network pros detail the ways criminals are constantly innovating, how they can more easily manipulate the emotions of potential victims, and what can be done about it.

The guide highlights several pressing issues, including the alarming rise of AI-driven scams, stories of real-life fraud, and professional tips on how to fight back against scammers.

Also in this year’s edition:

Simple tricks to secure your phone if you fear you’ve been hacked;
Resources for victims of fraud;
And much more.

Other stories in the March/April issue of AARP Bulletin:

Medicare Made Easy: We help readers navigate the often complex world of Medicare policies. This month, the Bulletin highlights key enrollment periods and deadlines to ensure you don’t get fined with a late fee. Plus: What you can do if a prescription drug previously covered by Medicare is no longer covered.

Great Ways to Save on Vacation Lodging: Planning a vacation doesn’t have to break the bank. This month, Bulletin editors offer savvy tips on how to save on your next vacation, ensuring you get the most out of your travel budget.

Published bi-monthly, AARP Bulletin is the definitive news source for AARP’s members, delivering the story behind the key issues confronting Americans 50 and older, including health and health policy, Medicare, Social Security, consumer protection, work, personal finance, and AARP state and national news. Learn more at http://www.aarp.org/bulletin/.

# # #

About AARP
AARP is the nation’s largest nonprofit, nonpartisan organization dedicated to empowering Americans 50 and older to choose how they live as they age. With a nationwide presence, AARP strengthens communities and advocates for what matters most to the more than 100 million Americans 50-plus and their families: health security, financial stability and personal fulfillment. AARP also works for individuals in the marketplace by sparking new solutions and allowing carefully chosen, high-quality products and services to carry the AARP name. As a trusted source for news and information, AARP produces the nation’s largest circulation publications, AARP The Magazine and AARP Bulletin. To learn more, visit www.aarp.org/about-aarp/, www.aarp.org/español or follow @AARP, @AARPenEspañol and @AARPadvocates on social media.

Get ready! Medicare’s Open Enrollment starts October 15.

October 1, 2021/in Medicare News /by mgl

You can enroll in Medicare health and drug plans from October 15 – December 7. Get ready for Medicare’s Open Enrollment with these 5 tips:

Check your mail. You may get important notices from Medicare or Social Security. If you’re in a Medicare plan, you’ll get an Annual Notice of Changes (ANOC) telling you of any changes in coverage, costs, or service area. Note any 2022 changes to your health coverage or any Extra Help you may get to pay for prescription drugs.
You may also get brochures and other marketing materials from insurance companies that offer Medicare health and prescription drug plans. Remember — plans aren’t allowed to call or come to your home without an invitation from you. Find out how to protect yourself from Medicare fraud.
Think about your Medicare coverage needs for 2022. Carefully review your current Medicare coverage, and note any upcoming changes to your costs or benefits. Decide if your current Medicare coverage will meet your needs for the year ahead. If you like your current coverage, and it’s still available for 2022, you don’t need to take any action to keep it.
Review your 2022 “Medicare & You” handbook. It has information about Medicare coverage and Medicare plans in your area. If you want to get your handbook electronically, you can go paperless by logging into (or creating) your secure Medicare account.
Preview 2022 health and prescription drug plans. We make it easy to compare coverage options and shop for health plans. For a personalized search, log in or create an account (if you have a Medicare Number) to create or access a list of your drugs, compare your current Medicare plan to others, and see prices based on any help you get with drug costs.
Get personalized help in your community. You may be able to find free information and events online, or get help from health insurance counselors in your area by phone, like your State Health Insurance Assistance Program.

Visit Medicare.gov to sign up to get important news & updates by email from Medicare.

Guard your card: How to protect your Medicare card

September 15, 2021/in Medicare News /by mgl

Protect yourself by protecting your Medicare card!

The next Medicare Open Enrollment Period (October 15 – December 7) is coming fast, which means con artists may try to steal your identity and commit Medicare fraud. Medicare has taken actions to make Medicare cards safer by replacing Social Security Numbers with more secure ID numbers. But even with those efforts, fraudsters may still try to take advantage of you during Open Enrollment.

Medicare fraud results in higher health care costs for taxpayers just like you. That’s why it’s so important to know how to protect your Medicare card and Number.

What can you do to protect yourself and prevent Medicare fraud?

The most important thing you can do is guard your Medicare card like it’s a credit card. Don’t give your Medicare card or Number to anyone except your doctor or people you know should have it.

You can also:

Keep your Medicare Number to yourself. If you get a call from people promising you things if you give them your Medicare Number — don’t do it. This is a common Medicare scam.
Refuse any offer of money or gifts for free medical care. A common ploy of identity thieves is to say they can send you your free gift right away — they just need your Medicare Number.
Use a calendar to record all of your doctors’ appointments and any tests you get. When you check your Medicare statements, look out for any items and services listed and other details that don’t look correct. If you see a charge or service that you think is incorrect and you know the provider, call their office and ask about it.
Learn how a Medicare plan works before you join.
Stay alert for fraud during the coronavirus disease 2019 (or COVID-19) national emergency. Con artists like to take advantage of people when they’re distracted.

Committing Medicare fraud is illegal & you should report it

If you suspect fraud, call 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227). TTY users can call 1-877-486-2048. If you’re in a Medicare Advantage Plan or Medicare drug plan, call the Medicare Drug Integrity Contractor (MEDIC) at 1-877-7SAFERX (1-877-772-3379).

Learn how to protect yourself from health care fraud. Visit Medicare.gov/fraud for more information on how to help fight Medicare fraud.

Prevention is key—protect yourself with vaccines

August 9, 2021/in Medicare News /by mgl

More than 79% of people 65 and over are fully vaccinated for COVID-19—but are you defending yourself from other life-threatening illnesses, like pneumonia and the flu? Getting vaccinated is a simple, safe, and effective way to protect yourself.

According to the CDC, “vaccines greatly reduce the risk of infection by working with the body’s natural defenses to safely develop immunity to disease.” They strengthen your immune system and train it to create antibodies, like it does when it’s exposed to a disease.

Medicare covers a variety of vaccinations, including:

COVID-19 vaccine—helps protect against Coronavirus disease 2019
Flu shot—helps prevent the influenza virus
Hepatitis B shots—helps protects against the Hepatitis B Virus
Pneumococcal shots —helps protect against pneumococcal disease and its potentially serious complications, including infections like pneumonia and meningitis
Shingles shot—helps protect against reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus (VZV), the same virus that causes varicella (chickenpox)
Tdap shots—helps protect against tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis (“whooping cough”)

Also, you no longer need to wait 14 days between different vaccines. According to the CDC, you can get a COVID-19 vaccine and other vaccines, including flu and shingles, at the same visit.

Adults need to keep their vaccinations up to date because immunity from childhood vaccines can wear off over time. Talk to your doctor to help you decide which vaccines are right for you.