5 Senior Reading Benefits

“Books are a uniquely portable magic.” Stephen King couldn’t be more right, as reading can not only help us mentally but even physically as well. Reading has many proven benefits for older adults especially, as we’ve seen here with our residents in Gloucester County. Reading is a shared love here among the independent seniors at UMC at Pitman, and because of that – we have a resident-driven book club open for all to join! If reading is not your go-to activity, some of these compelling reasons below might change your mind.

5 Benefits of Reading for Older Adults

1. Cognitive stimulation. As we age, our cognitive abilities can decline if we don’t exercise them – that’s the key. Fortunately, reading is an excellent way to keep the mind active and engaged. Reading requires focus, attention, and concentration, which can help seniors maintain cognitive function. Research has shown that reading can help reduce the risk of memory disorders like dementia.
2. Stress reduction. Stress is a common problem for people of all ages, but it can be especially prevalent in seniors. Retirement, health issues, and losing loved ones can all contribute to stress and anxiety. Reading can be a great way to reduce that stress and help seniors relax. A good book can transport readers to another world, providing an escape from the worries and stresses of daily life. It has also been shown to lower blood pressure and reduce stress hormones, making it an excellent tool for managing stress.
3. Heighten empathy and social awareness. Reading can also help seniors develop empathy and social awareness. Think about it – reading about characters and situations that are different from your own provides a different perspective. Reading can help older adults better understand other people’s experiences. This can be especially valuable for seniors who have limited social interactions due to health or mobility issues. By reading, they can connect with others and develop a deeper understanding of the world around them.
4. Improved sleep. Many seniors struggle with sleep issues, including insomnia and sleep apnea. Reading can be a great way to improve sleep quality and help them get a better night’s rest. Reading before bed can help anyone relax and unwind, reducing stress and preparing their minds and bodies for sleep. By making reading a part of their bedtime routine, seniors can improve their sleep quality and wake up feeling refreshed, energized, and ready to take on the day!
5. Lifelong learning. You’re never too old to learn something new, and reading is a great way for seniors to do this! Whether you’re learning about history, science, or a new hobby, reading can provide an endless source of knowledge and information. By reading regularly, seniors can stay mentally sharp and challenge their minds. Lifelong learning has been shown to have numerous benefits, including improved cognitive function, better mental health, and a better overall quality of life.

Senior book club at Pitman

As we mentioned briefly above, UMC at Pitman actually has an active, well-established book club open to all residents! Every month, residents meet up and decide what book to read that month and then meet again to discuss their opinions of the book when finished. Committing to a book club is a great way to keep yourself accountable to reading, as well as an opportunity to socialize often with friends. UMC at Pitman believes there is a book for everyone, so don’t give up on the power of reading!

If you are a resident of the community and would like to join the book club or have any questions about senior living at Pitman, please contact us today or visit us at: https://umcommunities.org/pitman/