No physical large-print magazine, but digital options are available
While AARP does not mail out physical large-print versions of AARP The Magazine or the AARP Bulletin, they provide a viable solution for members with visual impairments through their digital platforms. This approach allows readers to customize their viewing experience to suit their individual needs.
How to access large-print digital publications
Accessing the digital version of AARP publications in a larger format is a straightforward process. Here is a step-by-step guide:
- Use a web browser: Visit the official website for either AARP The Magazine or the AARP Bulletin.
- Adjust your zoom settings: Most modern web browsers, like Chrome, Firefox, and Safari, have a built-in zoom function. This feature allows you to increase the size of the entire webpage, including the text and images.
- For Windows users, hold
Ctrland press+to zoom in. - For Mac users, hold
Cmdand press+to zoom in.
- For Windows users, hold
- Download the AARP Publications app: AARP members can download a free app from the App Store (iOS) or Google Play (Android). This app provides instant access to all issues on a smartphone or tablet, where users can pinch-to-zoom on articles for a comfortable reading size.
- Explore other app features: The AARP Now app is another resource that connects members with publications, news, and other benefits, all of which can be viewed in an enlarged format on a mobile device.
Benefits and limitations of digital large print
Making the switch from a physical copy to a digital one has both advantages and disadvantages, depending on your personal preferences and needs.
| Aspect | Benefits of Digital Version | Limitations of Digital Version |
|---|---|---|
| Accessibility | Readers can customize the text size to their specific needs, often exceeding what a standard large-print magazine offers. | Requires a computer, tablet, or smartphone and a reliable internet connection. |
| Convenience | Access to all current and past issues is available anytime, anywhere, through a device. | Some members who are less tech-savvy may find the process difficult to navigate. |
| Portability | Carry an entire library of publications on a single, lightweight device. | Digital reading can cause eye strain for some individuals, and the backlit screen may be undesirable. |
| Environmental Impact | Reduces paper and ink consumption, as well as the carbon footprint of transportation. | Requires a device that needs to be manufactured and eventually disposed of, though its lifespan is often long. |
| Cost | Members already have access to the digital version as part of their membership, with no additional cost for the large-print feature. | The initial cost of a compatible device (e.g., a tablet) can be a barrier for some. |
Community feedback and AARP's response
On the AARP online community forums, some members have voiced their disappointment about the lack of physical large-print magazines. They point out the irony of a magazine for older adults, many of whom have vision problems, not offering a print format that is easier to read. Many members, while acknowledging the convenience of digital options, still prefer the tactile experience of a paper magazine. The community feedback indicates that while digital access is a good solution for many, it doesn't meet the needs of all members.
AARP representatives have acknowledged this feedback and directed members to the online solutions, but the organization has not indicated plans to produce a physical large-print version. This decision appears to be influenced by a variety of factors, including cost, environmental considerations, and the desire to move towards more convenient, digital-first resources. The move to reduce the number of print issues overall, which occurred in 2025, further illustrates this trend.
Alternative reading options for AARP content
In addition to using your browser's zoom function or the AARP Publications app, there are other ways to consume AARP's content in a more accessible format:
- Screen readers: For members with significant visual impairment, a screen reader is a powerful tool that can read the content aloud from the AARP websites. Both Macs and PCs have built-in screen reader functionality, and there are many third-party options available.
- Listen to content: Websites can be converted into audio using various software tools. Some browsers also offer text-to-speech features that can read the articles aloud.
- Print articles manually: If you have a specific article you want to read, you can print it from the AARP website and manually adjust the font size in the print settings of your browser. While not a full magazine solution, it works for single articles.
Conclusion
While a physical large-print AARP The Magazine is not available, the organization provides robust digital alternatives to ensure its content remains accessible to members. By using browser zoom features, the AARP Publications app, or other accessibility tools, members can read the magazine and bulletin in a comfortable, enlarged format. While some members prefer a traditional paper copy, the digital options cater to a wide range of needs and preferences, offering convenience, portability, and customizable text size. AARP's focus has shifted towards these digital solutions, providing a modern approach to publication access.
