Family

Family is everything, but let’s be real—it’s not always easy. We’re here with heartwarming stories, expert advice, and real conversations about love, legacy, and family dynamics. Get practical advice on caregiving, communication and setting boundaries, along with stories about love, legacy and shared traditions. These Sisters From AARP pieces offer real talk and guidance to help families stay connected through every stage of life.

A Girlfriend's Loved One Passed Away. Here's What (Not) to Say

The right words of support can bring your bestie genuine comfort. The wrong words--though well-intentioned can leave her cold. A psychologist and death doula explains the difference.

What Grandma's Plants Taught Me About Life and Caregiving

I had spent several years running to the pharmacy, cooking, ordering supplies, and just generally taking care of things. But after she was gone, I had more time than I knew what to do with.

Dispatches From the Dearly Departed

Are you among the many Black women blessed by signs, sensations and the spiritual presence of loved ones who have transitioned?

Modern Family: This Twist on Tradition Saves Me Time and Money

My mom and grandma taught me to do for others. While respecting their loving legacy, I’ve learned to do me.

Keeping Big Mama's House: How Families Fight Back

How to help make sure heirs property stays in the family.

Don’t Assume Big Mama's House Will Stay in the Family

Billions in African Americans’ generational wealth has been seized or sold off using red tape, racist policies and property tax penalties. Protect what’s yours.

A Fat Folder of Family Secrets: Mom’s Hidden Past

I’ve always been proud of my father’s WWII service. Why didn’t my mother reveal her wartime work?

Someone You Care About May Soon Tell You They Are Gay

National Coming Out Day is October 11. Here's how you can support and validate an LGBTQ friend, neighbor or family member taking this meaningful step.

They Took My Aunt, Then Spent Her Money

One day Aunt Lillie, 83, was driving her sports Mercedes. Within weeks, she was an Alleged Incapacitated Person. What happened next was shocking.

Plan a Fun and Fuss-Free Family Reunion

Easily manage details, from the dates and destination to the DJ’s final dance track.

Mother’s Day Swag She’ll Brag About

Show the moms you care about how much they matter — or even treat yourself! — with thoughtful gifts from Black-owned brands.

When Adult Children Need Money

If we’re going to give, here’s how to do it wisely.

When Grownup Siblings Grow Apart

As kids, sibs can be built-in best friends. Once they’re grown and flown, that can change. Learn habits that may help build happier, stronger bonds.

I’m Growing as a Parent, to Help My Teen Grow

The discovery that her son has a sensory-processing sensitivity required her to adapt as a mother, but also brought hope.

She Stole My Dad’s Heart, Then Tried to Get His Money. Here’s What I Did Next

At first, my brother and I were glad that our lonely father, in his 80s, had found a gal pal. Then he bought a big house, moved her in and changed his will.

Taking Three Minutes to Read This May Help Save a Loved One’s Life

July is BIPOC Mental Health Month. Learn how you can find care, support someone close to you who may be affected and help promote healing in our community.

13 Sisters Who Are Shaping the Conversation About Black Motherhood

These role models, writers, advocates, artists, healers and others are redefining parenting in the 21st century.

Racial Tensions Marred My Daughter’s High School Graduation

Named as her majority-Black town’s first Black valedictorian in recent memory, she was abruptly forced to share the honor with a white student. Was this a clerical error, or something else?

'It Seems Like Everybody at School Is a Druggie'

Smoking and drinking have been evident among my teen’s peers since the pandemic. It scares me. But we’re using communication to, hopefully, keep our son on track.