WASHINGTON (November 5, 2009)--The AARP officially endorsed the House Democratic health care bill Thursday, giving the legislation a major boost two days before the measure is set for an historic vote.

AARP Senior Policy Adviser John Rother said Thursday that the 40-million member organization backs the House bill, which he said the measure closes the coverage gap in Medicare prescription benefits, puts strict limits on what health insurers can charge older workers who are too young for Medicare and creates a voluntary, long-term care insurance program.

Officials with the seniors lobby said the organization lost 150,000 members since July 1 because of the group's support for health overhaul, but in that time, it also registered 2.7 million new members and renewals.

Officials said they were confident their members would see the bill's benefits.