Elderly book lovers live longer
August 9th marks National Book Lovers Day – a special day for bibliophiles to celebrate their love of literature and reading. In this blog we look at just some of many benefits of getting stuck into a good book:
- It stimulates the mind and improves memory
As we age, so the risk for Alzheimer’s and dementia increases. Reading books can prevent the early onset of these diseases. Why? Reading books provides mental stimulation and just like the muscles in the body, the brain needs its regular exercise too. In fact, reading for just a few minutes every day keeps the brain in a state of engagement and action.
- Reading reduces stress and can help sleep
Enjoying a good novel can distract the elderly from the monotony and stress of their daily lives, taking them to a different place and time. It can help relax their mind and melt away their tensions. Reading in bed has long been considered a failsafe way to fall asleep and is far healthier for the brain that falling asleep in front of a television screen or other electronic device which can actually impede rest.
- Reading can be a social connection with others – and build confidence
Elderly book lovers not only mentally benefit from reading – it can also improve their personal and social relationships through a shared love of the same book – or by joining a book club. It’s never too late to widen you vocabulary – boosting knowledge also gives extra confidence in communicating with others.
Some residents come to Birchwood already armed with their collection of favourite books – but if not, there are plenty of novels and other non-fiction books available on the shelves here. Many of them are in large print for those with visual impairments and we can even order audio format books from the Kent Blind Association.
Other articles you may like
- Christmas crafts
Merry Christmas! This month is filled with festive fun for our residents, which means all sorts of Christmas crafts to get involved with. And these activities are suitable for anyone; crafting is a great way to boost mood, stimulate our brains, and make memories with those around us. We’re sharing a run-down of how we’ve been making the most of this holiday season – use it as inspiration and show us anything you make! - Clementine Panna Cotta
Clementine Panna Cotta This dessert has been going down a treat with our residents! Inspired by taste buds, thisContinue reading “Clementine Panna Cotta” - Gentle exercises for older adults
When we get older, finding ways to move our body can get harder. But that doesn’t mean it’s impossible! Using low-impact, gentle exercise is a great way to stay active without putting too much strain on ourselves. Regular movement is important for a number of reasons, not to mention the physical and mental health benefits. A recent report by Care England even showed that regular physical activity is improving the health, confidence, and wellbeing of residents in care homes, and could even deliver savings of up to £96 million to the NHS. - Mediterranean Roasted Chicken Breasts
This is a dish packed with flavour and spice. The chicken is filled with amino acids to support muscle growth and brain function, whilst the vegetables are rich in fibre and antioxidants. Both warming and filling, we’ve taken inspiration from The Cafe Sucre Farine to make this healthy, easy dinner. - How did our residents celebrate National Baking Week?
Happy National Baking Week! From Monday (October 13th) to Sunday (October 19th), we’re celebrating the joy and benefits of baking. Because, as you may have already seen on our Facebook, baking is a firm favourite at Birchwood House. Whether it’s sweet treats or savoury goods, we make sure baking is a regular activity. There are always recipes to try, techniques to learn, and opportunities to discover something new. - Baked Salmon and Creamy Chive Sauce
This baked salmon is perfect for our residents, filled with omega-3 fatty acids that support heart health and brain function. We were inspired by HelloFresh to pair it with a creamy chive sauce, which went down a treat! - How we use colour in a care home
Colour in a care home affects residents more than we think. It has a direct impact on how we view our environment, which then influences our emotions and wellbeing. And this is especially true for older adults, as colour can help our residents better move around the home, and better distinguish the objects around them. - Pineapple Upside Down Cake
Pineapple Upside Down Cake Pineapple upside down cake has been around since the 1920s, and its tangy flavour hasContinue reading “Pineapple Upside Down Cake” - Birchwood House review: thoughts from the community
Birchwood House review: thoughts from the community This month, Birchwood House completed the Quality Assurance Questionnaire, a survey forContinue reading “Birchwood House review: thoughts from the community”
