AARP to host annual lifestyle convention at Sands Expo

Eric Leake

Monday, Oct. 11, 2004 | 9:03 a.m.

The Baby Boomer generation is coming to town during a politically charged time not completely different from the one it helped shape in the '60s and '70s.

The AARP's fourth annual lifestyle convention for people 50 years and older begins Thursday and continues through Saturday at the Sands Expo and Convention Center.

Though it won't much resemble the events of the '60s and '70s, there will be music and discussions about civil rights and politics.

"Of course the boomer generation grew up in the '70s during an age of activism, and some of that may have carried over," said Ava Baker, AARP director of member services.

The night before events begin, conventioneers are invited to watch this season's final presidential debate in a viewing party billed as the nation's largest.

Compared with younger generations, a higher percentage of older Americans are registered to vote and do, according to the AARP. An AARP poll found that of likely voters 50 years and older, 21 percent have not decided who they will vote for and 71 percent say the debates are important to their decision.

"Our members tell us that important in their minds are health, economic security, and being able to live the lifestyle that they choose," Baker said, adding that Medicare and Social Security are especially important issues.

Both political parties are looking toward older voters in an election that may be won by a thin margin.

"This is an important voting block, but at the same time I think it's important to note that every vote is going to be important in this election," said John Summers, communications director of the state Democratic Party.

He said he expects a good turnout of senior citizens in this election, especially for the presidential race.

More than 22,000 AARP members have already registered to attend the convention, putting it on track to be the group's most successful ever.

Baker said people 50 years and older like to have fun as much as anyone else and that they have money to spend as they look foremost for an enjoyable experience.

"I think everyone wants to have fun and excitement in their life. And that's what the event brings, it brings energy and excitement and a safe place to enjoy yourself and have a good time," Baker said.

That's the kind of thinking that brings so many conventions to Las Vegas.

"Vegas is just made for conventions," said Erika Yowell, spokeswoman for the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority.

According to that entity, 5.6 million people visited Las Vegas last year for conventions and meetings, leaving $6.5 billion in non-gaming dollars behind.

Maya Angelou will open the AARP convention. Included among convention speakers are Roger Ebert conducting a film series, Jerry Lewis, writer Dave Barry, and actors Cybill Shepherd and Danny Glover, who will participate in a session on civil rights.

James Taylor and Smokey Robinson are scheduled to perform.

"I think our entertainers understand that 50 is the beginning of life and not the end," Baker said. "It's a time to really celebrate."

Convention registration is $10 for AARP members and $22 for nonmembers. Concert tickets are sold separately.