A recent article in our newsletter discussed five industries that will be hiring writers. Three of the industries were related to travel, medical, and nursing, and it was pointed out that there will be increasing demand in these industries due to the aging population and the retirement of baby boomers.
In terms of magazines there will also be an increasing demand for seniors’ publications and magazines targeted to retirees.
So what are seniors reading? The topics are as varied as for popular magazines for men or women. The key difference is that the articles and stories must be written and angled for an older audience.
Here are some of the more popular subject areas that seniors are following.
• Retiring – 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.
The following are a handful of writing markets for this type of material.
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
GOOD TIMES, CANADA
Canada's Magazine for Successful Retirement, geared to retired people as well as those who are preparing for this important life transition. Published 11 times per year. Covers all aspects of life for a mature readership: finances and estate planning, health issues, personal, family and intergenerational relationships, and ideas for enjoying the best years. Pay not specified.
Guidelines: http://www.goodtimes.ca/customer/writers.asp
GRAND MAGAZINE, USA
Magazine for grandparents. Topics include child development, health and wellness, family money, reunions, family travel, humor and more. Paying market.
Guidelines: http://www.grandmagazine.com/article.asp?id=151
MATURE LIVING, USA
http://www.lifeway.com/article/169760/
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: http://www.lifeway.com/menu/200944/
SENIOR LIVING, CANADA
A monthly magazine for the Vancouver region. An inspirational magazine profiling the lives and achievements of active seniors and people over the age of 50. Topics include gardening, travel, health, finances, food, and a variety of other topics. Paying market.
Guidelines: http://www.seniorlivingmag.com/submissions
YOURS MAGAZINE, UK
Web site for the over 50s. It's a friendly community where you can share stories and laughter, and find all kinds of advice on topics that matter to your life today - health, beauty, travel, fashion, finance and consumer issues. Paying market.
Guidelines: http://www.yours.co.uk/GLOBAL/Help/Left-Hand-Nav/Contact-Us/
There are more seniors' publications listed in our Markets Plus database.
About the Author
Gary McLaren is the editor of Worldwide Freelance Writer. Subscribe to our free weekly newsletter and get writing markets in your inbox every Wednesday! http://www.worldwidefreelance.com/newsletter
