When you have a senior loved one, you want to do everything you can to improve their quality of life and keep their brain sharp, especially if they have a dementia-related condition. Incorporating reading in their senior care regimen will offer multiple benefits to them while achieving these goals and giving them an enjoyable activity. Below are several benefits reading offers to senior living.

How Does Reading Play a Role In Senior Care?

1. Enhances Cognitive Function

Reading exercises imagination, critical thinking, memory, and vocabulary, which utilizes the brain’s executive and cognitive functions. In one study, reading aloud was associated with higher cognitive function after just 6 months. It improved various areas of their memory, their attention span, and processing speed, showing that reading aloud contributed to stronger brain functions. Another study also found that engaging in cognitive activities like reading, even late in life, can slow the progression of dementia-related diseases.

2. Provides Social Benefits

Reading also provides social benefits, which can improve mood, emotional health, and quality of life. Your loved one can start or join a book club that allows them to read books together and discuss it afterwards, further strengthening cognitive skills like recall and critical thinking. It also gives them something to discuss with their friends and family.

3. Can Boost Longevity

Reading may also extend your loved one’s lifespan, especially if they read more than just newspapers and magazines. Book-reading was shown to give people a 4-month survival advantage over those who don’t read, as well as reduce their risk of mortality in the long-term. In elderly care, this can make a monumental difference.

4. Improves Communication, Independence, & Relationships

In patients with a form of dementia, communication, independence, and interpersonal relationships can all become strained by the symptoms associated with the condition. One study found that after reading and doing math problems for a six-month program, dementia patients experienced better frontal function, stronger communication skills, better relationships, and a higher sense of independence. All of these can significantly improve your loved one’s quality of life.

Your loved one deserves a senior care facility that offers a stimulating and engaging environment that boosts mental, cognitive, and physical wellbeing. At Speltz Estates Assisted Living in Lewiston, MN, your loved one will benefit from their 30 years of experience in providing a high level of senior living and elderly care, with 24-hour staff, emergency response systems, and a unique homey environment. They provide 3 meals a day, laundry and housekeeping services, and regular activities. Learn more about their community online, and call (507) 523-2252 to check availability.