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Friendship

True friendships can change with age. This space offers practical friendship advice for women navigating loss of friends, ghosting and feeling alone. You will find real stories and expert guidance on maintaining friendships, spotting toxic friends and learning how to make friends, including staying close through long-distance friendships.

All Relationships Topics

Dating & Partnership

Older adult seated on a park bench leaning against an orange silhouette figure in a conceptual photo illustration about friendship and ghosting

The Hard Truth About Being Ghosted (or Ghosting)

One woman's experience reveals both sides of disappearing connections

A bright turquoise mailbox with a red flag stands against a soft pink background, overflowing with colorful greeting cards and letters

Why I Still Send Snail Mail to Stay Connected

How the intimate art of letter writing makes relationships grow

Illustrated scene of older adults enjoying healthy aging activities, including group exercise, crafts, social gatherings, games, friendship, caregiving support, and active retirement

Truth About Life in a Senior Living Community

There is something for everyone — even romance!

Friendship Advice

Meet the Winners of The Ethel Essay Contest

Check out these inspiring stories of connection and community

How I Found Community Years After Loss of Spouse

My house, called 'Judy’s After Five,' has become a hangout for new friends.

The Ageless Confidence Older Women Pass Down

How intergenerational friendships build confidence, joy and perspective

How to Make Friends Later in Life

It takes a lot of tenacity and an abundance of courage.

Why We Hide The Truth From Our Closest Friends

Real stories of secrets, shame and finding deeper support

Three Simple Questions To Ease Loneliness

Simple shifts that nurture connection and emotional ease

When Weight Loss Changes Your Friendships

Managing shifting bonds, jealousy and your new confidence

Please Stop Asking When I Am Retiring

Why work, purpose and privacy still matter in your 60s

The Friend Who Feels Like The Mom I Needed

Why mothering friendships with experienced women feel so healing

When My Friend Circle Quietly Fell Apart

Finding comfort in one on one bonds after group goodbyes

Why A Friendship Cabinet Matters As We Age

Build a circle that has your back during life’s storms

When A Longtime Friendship Fades Away

Finding peace and self worth after a cherished bond ends

Grow Your Circle With Creative New Pursuits

Fresh ideas to spark connection, confidence and joy

Confessions Of A Grandchild Photo Bragger

Why swapping grandbaby snaps feels so funny and heartfelt

Honoring My Friend With One Last Dazzling Act

A playful funeral promise becomes a moving act of devotion

Picky About Friendships And Loving It At 76

Why shared values, humor and history matter even more now

Relationships Topics

More Relationships From AARP

Discover more ways AARP can help you live well, navigate aging, save money, and protect older Americans on issues that matter.