Note: This article, originally written in 2011, was last updated in March 2022.
An article in our newsletter some time back discussed five industries that would be hiring writers. Three of these industries were connected to travel, medical, and nursing, where the increase in demand was expected to be driven by an aging population and the retirement of baby boomers.
So don't be surprised to see an increase in demand for seniors’ publications and magazines targeted to retirees.
The topics for seniors are as varied as the topics found in popular national magazines for men and women. The key difference is that the articles and stories must be written and angled for an older audience.
Here are some popular subject areas for seniors.
Retirement – and all that being retired encompasses from hobbies to recreation to staying active.- Wealth and Finance – including investing, taxes, family trusts, wills, etc.
- Travel – especially destinations suitable for the elderly, seniors’ cruises etc.
- Staying Fit – including food and nutrition, exercise and fitness etc.
- Health & Medicine – medical research and breakthroughs.
- Nursing, Retirement Homes, and Assisted Living.
- Relationships – especially family related material.
- Technology – how seniors can benefit from the latest gadgets, online tools and other technology.
Freelance Writing for Seniors' Magazines
The following are a handful of writing markets for this type of material.
3RD ACT MAGAZINE
A consumer lifestyle magazine for seniors, published quarterly. Readers are boomers and older adults who live in Western Washington and are experiencing the third act of their lives. Topics include health, home, family, community, moving, aging, memory health, downsizing, traveling, caregiving, legal, financial, living well at any age and others. Payment is $25 to $50.
Guidelines: https://www.3rdactmagazine.com/write/
AARP, USA
Formerly known as the "American Association of Retired Persons”. Features and departments cover Finance, Health & Fitness, Food & Nutrition, Travel, Consumerism, General interest, Relationships. Pays on acceptance a minimum of $1.00 per contracted word. Kill fee 25%.
Guidelines: http://www.aarp.org/about-aarp/info-05-2010/writers-guidelines-aarp-magazine.html
CHICAGO HEALTH: CAREGIVING
A print magazine launched in 2020 for seniors and the loved ones who care for them. Caregiving magazine helps seniors navigate everyday life, find necessary services and locate professional assistance. Paying market.
Guidelines: https://chicagocaregiving.com/contact/
GOOD OLD DAYS, USA
A nostalgia magazine telling the real stories of people who lived and grew up in the "good old days" (about 1935–1960). Paying market.
Guidelines: https://www.goodolddaysmagazine.com/contributor_guidelines.php
MATURE LIVING, USA
https://www.lifeway.com/en/product-family/mature-living-magazine
An award-winning magazine, focuses on the personal and spiritual needs of adults 55+, encouraging growth, hope, and fulfillment in Christian living. Articles feature nostalgia, humor, spiritual lessons, practical information, and fiction. Popular departments include "Grandparents Brag Board," "Your Mind and Body," and "Money Matters." Paying market.
Guidelines: https://www.lifeway.com/en/about/writing-for-lifeway
THE OLDIE, UK
A monthly general-interest magazine with an irreverent and strongly humorous slant, reflecting attitudes of older people but aimed at a wide audience. Paying market.
Guidelines: https://www.theoldie.co.uk/about-us/contact
There are more seniors' publications listed in our Markets Database.
