AARP New Hampshire

Cost-of-living adjustment will add $56 a month to the average retirement benefit starting in January 2026. Read more: Social Security Sets 2026 COLA Increase at 2.8%

More than seven-in-ten older adults would prefer to remain in their communities as they age while large majorities of those 50 and older favor a roster of zoning and land-use policies that would allow more homes to be built, according to surveys by AARP and The Pew Charitable Trusts. Read more . . .

AARP NH is proud to honor Vicki Laforet with the 2025 Andrus Award for Community Service, recognizing her extraordinary dedication to improving the lives of older adults through volunteerism, leadership, and innovation.

In 2021, as the world grappled with the isolation and stress of the COVID-19 pandemic, AARP New Hampshire introduced a simple yet powerful idea: virtual paint parties designed to give caregivers a much-needed break. What began as a creative outlet during a difficult time has grown into a vibrant monthly tradition, drawing hundreds of participants from New Hampshire and across the country.

In the heart of Center Harbor, NH—a town of just 1,000 year-round residents nestled beside Lake Winnipesaukee—something magical happened this summer. The James E. Nichols Memorial Library, a cozy cornerstone of the community, turned a dream into reality thanks to a 2025 AARP Community Challenge Grant.

Remember the “mother-in-law suite” or “granny flat”? These small, separate living spaces tucked behind a main house were once common in American neighborhoods. After World War II, they popped up across the country, offering families a way to keep loved ones close while giving them independence. However, over time, zoning laws made it increasingly difficult to build them, and they gradually faded from view.

The holidays can be stressful for anyone. Not surprisingly, working caregivers and those caring for parents tend to feel the most stressed. In New Hampshire, there are more than 168,0000 family caregivers juggling work, family and creating holiday memories for their loved ones.

Tammy and her husband depend on Social Security to live; cuts or late payments pose the risk of jeopardizing their financial security. Tammy has worked several different jobs during her career, the longest being a telephone service representative. Unfortunately, after four back surgeries, it was clear Tammy would not be returning to the workforce.

For the past three years, Beverly has cared for her husband at home. Once an accomplished machinist, he lives with Alzheimer’s, a condition that has slowly changed nearly every aspect of their daily lives.

No matter where you are in the caregiver journey, these local agencies and organizations can help make the process easier