Aarp policy fundamentals: consumer rights and protections

Consumer protections serve as the foundation of an economy reliant on consumer spending. Straightforward business practices, marketing materials and contracts empower consumers to understand

both the benefits and risks of products and services so they can make informed choices about what to buy. In addition, individuals must be protected from abuse, neglect, discrimination,

crime, and financial exploitation. Older adults can be especially vulnerable and may need extra safeguards.  * POLICYMAKERS SHOULD ENSURE CONSUMER PROTECTIONS IN THE MARKETPLACE. Consumer

protection policies should ensure fair competition and protect consumers from unfair, deceptive and abusive acts and practices. To achieve these goals, policies should prioritize safety,

promote fair play and practice, foster transparency, protect the right to restitution for harm or injury, safeguard privacy and security, and keep pace with technological changes. * ALL

CONSUMERS SHOULD HAVE ACCESS TO AFFORDABLE, RELIABLE BASIC AND NECESSARY PRODUCTS AND SERVICES. These include heating and cooling, telephone and digital communications, financial products

and services, and transportation. These products and services also should be affordable, safe, reliable, and culturally appropriate. * POLICYMAKERS SHOULD ENACT, STRENGTHEN AND ENFORCE CIVIL

RIGHTS STATUTES. Laws should eliminate practices that specifically target or have a disproportionately negative effect on groups that are discriminated against. Protections should include

safeguards against age discrimination, which is a serious challenge for many older adults, as well as all other forms of bias.  * POLICYMAKERS SHOULD ENACT PROTECTIONS FOR VULNERABLE

POPULATIONS, SUCH AS OLDER ADULTS WITH MENTAL OR PHYSICAL IMPAIRMENTS. People in these groups may be at particular risk for elder abuse. Such abuse may be physical or emotional and can

involve financial exploitation. Incapacitated older adults have a right to have their wishes carried out. * POLICYMAKERS SHOULD PRIORITIZE INDIVIDUAL DIGNITY, AUTONOMY AND CHOICE. Everyone

has the right to be treated with respect, regardless of their age, personal background, health or economic status. Honoring dignity includes respecting and enabling personal and financial

choices.