Working with Local Publications for Older Adults

What opportunities are there for contributing to these publications?

In the past, two types of publications have targeted older adults:

• Newspaper and magazines
• Resource directories

The newspapers and magazines are usually free monthly publications that depend on advertisements to generate revenue. One or two writers cover the events of the region, often relying on professionals from service agencies to provide news releases or even run regular articles.

Annual printed resource directories feature articles on topics ranging from housing to health, usually followed by a directory related to the topic. Again, revenue is gained through advertisements or sponsorships. Local publishers are looking for experts to submit articles.

How are the publications distributed?

Many of the newspapers are distributed monthly to:

• Senior centers
• Grocery stores
• Nutrition sites
• Housing sites

Directories are distributed to similar sites, as well as:

• Physician's offices
• Banks
• Case management agencies
• Businesses with family eldercare programs

How do I submit information?

For either of these types of publications:

• Make personal contact either by phone or appointment
• Share past writing samples
• Explore with the publisher or editor his or her copy needs and ideas for content
• Do your research:
  • Find out editorial deadlines
  • Ask about editorial guidelines for articles
  • Provide calendar items in the requested format