Reading comes with benefits for people of all ages, but it can especially benefit older adults. Besides occupying their time in a meaningful way, reading can help older adults to age each more peacefully and in a healthier manner. Read on to find out some ways in which reading can improve your aging parents’ overall wellbeing, including reading for mental health!
Reading As a Stress Reliever
We all have stressors in our lives and our own unique ways of coping with them. However, did you know that compared to taking a walk or even listening to music, reading can be a much more effective way of relieving stress? Reading can be done from anywhere at anytime, making it accessible to everyone.
Older adults who require it can also get large print books or audiobooks to aid the experience of reading. As long as your aging parent is passionate about reading, there is a way for them to do it. We all know the stress comes with many detrimental effects to mental health, which is why older adults who read are able to age more peacefully!
Keeps Cognitive Decline At Bay
There is more truth to the saying “if you don’t use it, you lose it” than you think. Older adults who keep their minds active will find that they have a lower chance of experiencing cognitive decline and the conditions associated with it, such as Alzheimer’s disease.
A Relaxing Activity to Promote Sleep
The truth is that your elderly parent may find it harder to stay or fall asleep as they age. One way to promote good sleep is to find a relaxing activity to engage in right before bed. Instead of watching TV or browsing on a mobile device, avoiding screen time is the best way to promote restfulness. To this end, reading a paperback book can help to introduce relaxation right before bed and promote a better night’s sleep.
Reading As a Social Activity
Although we often think of reading as a solitary activity, this does not have to be the case. Some ways reading can be social include reading out loud to peers or grandchildren, discussing latest books in a book club, and so much more!
Having a healthy social life is an important aspect of mental health. In fact, social isolation can quickly start to take a toll on an older adult’s overall health. This is especially true if they don’t have an occasion to get out there and interact with others. With reading as a common interest, there are many socialization opportunities!
Making the Move to a Retirement Community Can Improve Overall Quality of Life
Whether assisted living or memory care will better suit your aging parent’s needs, you can find it all in a retirement community. On campus, you can be sure that a selection of activities and events will keep residents occupied during their free time, with the additional benefit of keeping their minds and bodies active for longer!
