As we age, keeping our minds active and engaged becomes increasingly important. A great way to keep the minds of seniors active is through reading. Reading not only helps to stay mentally sharp by preserving cognitive function, but it is also a great way to reduce stress and relax. For seniors, having access to a library can be an incredibly valuable resource, and can play a large role in their overall mental health and wellness.
Keeps the Mind Active
Reading is a great exercise for your brain and can even help to enhance your memory! Reading is also a cognitive activity that helps to strengthen your brain by requiring focus and concentration. This helps to improve cognitive function and memory. There have also been studies that have shown that reading is linked to a delay and overall decline in the development of Alzheimer’s. Brain challenging activities and exercises are proven to build up your brain’s neurological defenses.
Reduces Stress and Anxiety
Reading offers seniors an easy way to reduce stress and relieve anxiety. As seniors often face many stressors in their daily lives like health issues, financial worries, loneliness, and even anxiety and depression, reading can help to alleviate feelings of worry and offer a sense of calm. Reading is proven to reduce heart rate and stress levels and is an extremely effective tool in calming your body down.
Improves Sleep
Since reading helps to create a calming atmosphere, it is an ideal activity to work into seniors’ bedtime routines! Reading can help to signal to your brain that it is time to wind down. As seniors age, they may opt to watch TV instead of reading, but a TV screen can make it more difficult to fall asleep or relax. Reading offers the body a natural way to decompress and fall into a deep and healthy sleep.
Provides Entertainment and Enjoyment
Reading not only provides benefits for your mental health, but it is also a great source of entertainment and enjoyment for seniors. It can also be a great social activity to participate in! Joining a book club, or sitting in our library, is a great way to interact with other Millview residents and socialize.
Cost-Effective
Our Millview library is completely free and open to residents 24/7! Generally, reading does not require any special equipment or costly expenses. Reading is a cost-effective way to keep seniors’ minds engaged and sharp.
Learn More About Our Assisted Living Facility Reading and libraries can provide many benefits to seniors from keeping their minds active and reducing stress to providing entertainment and socialization. Libraries offer a wealth of resources and knowledge and are a wonderful addition to all communities and Assisted Living Facilities. Our residents love to spend time reading, chatting, and searching for their next new book! Our mission here at Millview is to provide compassionate and individualized care to all of our residents. Contact our team to learn more about our community!
