'R-word' uncool at boomers' bash

ANAHEIM, Calif., Oct. 26 (UPI) -- Volunteers working at the annual AARP convention that opened Thursday in Anaheim, Calif., have been told not to use the word "retired" with attendees.

Some 25,000 people are expected to attend the AARP expo, most of them "over 50" -- which volunteers were told is the preferred term for visitors instead of "retired." The words "old" and "seniors" are also discouraged, the Los Angeles Times reports. The AARP used to be known as the American Association of Retired Persons.

The variety of booths and shows ranges from funeral-planning to a NASCAR driving simulator. While electric scooter and wheelchair rentals are available, so are booths offering discounted motorcycle insurance and others offering fitness work-outs, the Times said.

The American Urological Association also has staff on hand to discuss enlarged prostate glands, and conventioneers can also join the Peace Corps.

Former CBS news anchor Dan Rather opened the first of three days of festivities, which include a concert by Elton John and a performance by Bill Cosby, both of which were sold out before the convention opened, the report said.