Reading to the elderly improves their health and well being
261
views
The little things in life have powerful effects.
It is often remarked that, in life, it is the little things that provide the greatest enjoyment.
Whether it is listening to music, being close to nature or painting, our hobbies do not generally change as we get older.
loading...
Advocates of elderly care are keen to point out that the older generation are – above all – individuals with unique preferences and interests.
In as much as they may require greater and all encompassing support, this should include encouragement to pursue activities.
Almost all elderly people enjoy reading – in part because there is a genre that appeals to all tastes whether it may be adventure, fantasy or poetry. However, research has shown that the benefits of being read to can be far reaching.
These include, for one, being able to listen to a story in the place of reading it; something which, due to cognitive or neurological reasons, might be harder than before.
Reading aloud to the elderly can provide welcome relief. It offers a sense of escape into an exciting or relaxing story that might evoke warm feelings. Moreover, stories provide mental stimulation, increase knowledge and emotional awareness as well as sharpen the memory. It has even been claimed that reading can prolong the life span.
What to read depends on personal taste. For some individuals, hearing their favourite childhood book might bring back memories. An enchanting poem could stir the imagination.
Being read to can also provide entertainment and be very soothing.
loading...
According to the Reader Organisation UK, reading aloud improves mood, concentration, recollection and social interaction amongst those with dementia.
Those thinking of taking on a new volunteering opportunity might like to consider the simple yet powerful activity of reading to an elderly person as being a highly beneficial option.
Loading...