Senior man and woman reading together

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Books for Memory Loss

Research has shown that people who read are less likely to decline cognitively as they age. A study in 2013, published in the journal Neurology, found that reading into old age reduced memory decline by more than 30%, compared to other forms of mental activity. An analysis published in JAMA Psychiatry found that doing intellectually stimulating activities like reading and playing board games every day can lead to a lower risk of dementia and memory loss in older adults — even if they start in their later years.

So the evidence is clear that it’s never too late to make reading part of your everyday routine. In this blog our memory care team looked at the benefits of reading for those with Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia and suggest books for dementia patients. For additional information about memory care contact us today.

Stages of dementia and book suggestions.

Many people in the early stages of dementia retain their ability to read, although they may lose focus or become easily fatigued. Some helpful tips include:

  • Read along with them.
  • Choose books with photos; clear, large text; and humor.
  • when reading, write down notes about the plot for easy review.
  • make books, magazines and newspapers readily available.

Early-stage dementia.

Seniors in the early stages of Alzheimer’s or related dementia can probably read without any issues. They may occasionally experience some difficulty with remembering the plot, especially if they’re not familiar with the story. If your loved one is in this stage of dementia, we recommend books for dementia patients that are either short novels or contain several short stories.

Book suggestions: Emma Rose Sparrow is a writer of nonfiction. When both her parents were diagnosed with dementia, she pivoted to writing easy-to-read books with short paragraphs and chapters with one or two vivid color photos per section. Each story features main characters who are relatable to seniors. Some of her titles include:

  • The Sandy Shoreline
  • What the Wind Showed to Me
  • Down by the Meadow
  • The Splendor of Babies
  • A Dusting of Snow
  • Autumn’s Display

Author Jamie Stonebridge collaborates with people who have worked with dementia patients and their families to create books about everyday events. Titles include:

  • A Day at the Park
  • A Trip to the Lake
  • A Visit to the Farm
  • A Summer Walk
  • A Visit to the Library
  • Family Thanksgiving
  • A Day at the Beach

Middle-stage dementia. 

Book suggestions: Dovetale Press adapts classic works of literature and makes them accessible to people with cognitive impairment, including these six titles:

  • A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens
  • Little Women by Louisa May Alcott
  • The Adventure of the Blue Carbuncle by Arthur Conan Doyle
    (A Sherlock Holmes adventure)
  • The Garden Party & The Doll’s House
    (Short stories by Katherine Mansfield)
  • Poetry for the Restless Heart
    (Selected poems of nature, love, life and laughter)

Late-stage dementia. 

In the late stages of Alzheimer’s, your loved one might have more pronounced reading issues and appear less interested. Although the ability to communicate verbally in the late stages can decline significantly, it’s possible they could be reading more than they appear to be.

Your family member may also enjoy paging through a familiar magazine, or they may like listening to someone else read. You can also try looking through a book together. In this advanced stage, picture books may work best.

Book suggestions: Sunny Street Books designs lightweight, high-quality books filled with full-color, high-resolution photos and illustrated short stories. They’re crafted to be uncomplicated without being childish. This is a small sampling of their titles:

  • The Picture Book of American Patriotism
  • The Picture Book of Natural Wonders
  • The Picture Book of Movie Stars
  • The Picture Book of Animal Friends
  • The Picture Book of Kids and Animals
  • The Picture Book of Bible Verses

Cornerstone Memory Care.

At The Glebe, we offer innovative, compassionate memory care to seniors with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia. Our Cornerstone Memory Care program provides self-directed living in a neighborhood setting, allowing residents to tap into the strength of community.

The Cornerstone program helps your loved one experience a vibrant life through seven guiding principles:

  • Purposeful living in a comfortable, safe environment
  • Compassionate, specially trained team members
  • Life Story: learning your loved one’s preferences, lifelong routines, wishes, history
  • Meaningful relationships and belonging
  • Resident and family engagement
  • Ability-focused care
  • Vibrancy, faith, wellness, community

To learn more about memory care at The Glebe, contact us.