You can block those requests. I use fb simply because all my relatives live in Oklahoma, Arkansas, Louisiana, etc. and it is a great way to stay in touch with them.
I don't like FB at all but, like you, we have some relatives we stay in touch with that way. Some just don't use email. The only things I post are 1) articles slamming FB and Zuckerberg and 2) articles that will infuriate our lib relatives. We've no clue what Farmville is and never touch a like button.
Ever tried Skype? It's free and blows FB all to he!! and back. Plus you don't have to worry about having all your stuff scanned and being targeted. For now. Microsoft recently bought Skype. It remains to be seen how they will screw it up.