AARP likely trashed usanext because it is worth joining.
Maybe others here can post personal experiences.
This might be another useful source of information.
http://www.retirementliving.com/RLtaxburdens.html
I joined USANext and made a long, rambling loop from Texas, AZ, NM, CO and back, no one had heard of USANext (motels, etc.), no problem, I'm not a shuffleboard playing, Florida bound geezer driving a motorhome towing a handy little SUV asking for discounts at every stop either. I joined to support what I think might be a good thing. My experience: There was no follow-up after joining and so far, no one is really getting the word out there although I mentioned USANext at every chance.
Drop 'em 15 bucks and help them out but you can get the same discount by asking at the front desk anyhow!
Conservatives are pretty self-reliant, I think that's why these little "movements" sort of fizzle out, hope not but I haven't seen much to change my point of view. Anyone else? I would like to be proven wrong on this--very much.