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If you have a parent or loved one with dementia, you’re probably aware of the cognitive decline that can come with aging. For seniors who once loved reading, poor short-term memory and an inability to focus after a diagnosis may mean they rarely pick up a good book. However, reading can greatly benefit people in the early stages of Alzheimer’s disease or another form of dementia, and there are ways to help your loved one continue to enjoy this hobby.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention or CDC estimates that almost 6 million people in the United States have Alzheimer’s disease or a related form of dementia. For these people, reading can be an inexpensive and easy way to feel better. In general, reading regularly can help reduce stress and increase social connections, while reading into old age can reduce memory decline by more than 30 percent. At the same time, life-long readers have been shown to be better protected from Lewy bodies, which cause dementia. Many people with dementia retain their ability to read, and experts recommend that they continue to do so.
This guide looks at the benefits of reading for people with dementia and how to help your loved one continue reading. It also has information on how to join a library and how they can assist seniors and people with dementia.
Libraries can be great resources for all seniors, providing free access to books, entertainment and a social atmosphere. For people with dementia, it can offer a calm environment in a public space. This is especially true for seniors who were regular library visitors earlier in their lives. Libraries can also provide you and your loved one with information about their condition and resources on caregiving.
For many seniors, health declines as they get older. For people with dementia, this decline is generally seen in progressive cognitive impairment. However, as reading is exercise for the brain, it can help keep the brain fit. Although the benefits of reading haven’t been widely studied, research shows how it can improve senior health.
Numerous studies show that reading can delay the onset of dementia. A 2021 study published in Neurology found that cognitive activities, like reading, can delay dementia onset by 5 years, and a 2023 study found a lower risk of dementia among people who engage in mental activities such as reading books.
There are also reports that reading can decrease symptoms among people already diagnosed with dementia, although these tend to be more anecdotal. One Australian researcher observed that reading groups helped improve the mood of people with dementia and decrease agitation and isolation. Some experts also believe that reading every day helps preserve memory and language. This can help slow the progress of dementia.
For many older adults, stress increases the severity of dementia symptoms. Thankfully, reading a good book can reduce stress. Although no studies focus primarily on seniors, the research that has been conducted shows benefits to people of all ages. A 2009 study found that just 30 minutes of reading reduces stress as effectively as yoga. A similar study from the University of Sussex found that a person’s heart rate and stress levels decrease by 68% after just six minutes of reading.
Reading in groups, such as in book clubs, can build social connections. Discussing books can help people with dementia maintain analytical and verbal skills; this activity also provides the opportunity to talk about any feelings brought up by recent reads. This can be especially useful if seniors are reading about the experiences of other people with dementia.
Reading also increases empathy. This lets people understand other people's feelings and is essential to building relationships. Seniors who read books that concentrate on characters' inner feelings may find it easier to stay connected to their family and caregivers.
A study into the reading patterns of 3,600 older adults suggests that reading increases overall health. The long-term research found that the risk of mortality decreased by 20% in people who read books compared to those who don’t. However, the study only saw benefits in book readers; reading magazines or newspapers didn’t provide the same results.
Most people with dementia retain their ability to read, especially in the early stages of the disease. However, some effects of the condition may reduce the enjoyment they get from reading, making them unlikely to pick up a book. This includes short-term memory loss and difficulty focusing. The following tips can help you encourage your loved one to continue reading.
Spend time reading together. This doesn’t necessarily mean reading the same material, although that’s an option. Rather, if you’re quietly focusing on reading, your loved one may also find it easier to concentrate on the reading material.
Reading aloud to people with dementia can help them focus on the story rather than struggling to concentrate on the page. It still has all the benefits of reading, such as focusing on a story and thinking about the content. In addition, it gives you the opportunity to discuss the book with your loved ones, which can enhance these positive impacts. Audiobooks may also help seniors with dementia enjoy stories.
Experts suggest that the best books for people with dementia have the following elements: pictures, a clear main topic and 10 to 15 lines of text. When these elements are combined, they cause less brain strain, which equates to more reading time.
It’s important to pick material that interests the reader. Although children’s books often meet the above criteria, the plots don’t generally capture the imagination of older adults. Thankfully, there are authors writing specifically for people with dementia, such as Emma Rose Sparrow and Hugh Morrison. The Alzheimer’s Association maintains a list of authors that your loved one may enjoy.
There are further recommendations based on how far the condition has progressed:
It can be frustrating to pick up a book and forget what’s happening in the plot. For seniors with short-term memory loss, this is a common problem. You can help your loved one make notes about the plot at the end of each reading session. They can then review the notes before they continue reading, allowing them to focus on enjoying the story.
Book clubs can enhance the benefits of reading by encouraging seniors to think about and discuss stories. Bibliotherapy is one type of reading group that can help seniors with dementia. It’s built around the benefits of reading aloud as a group. In this practice, a facilitator reads books about the condition or creative works to a group. In people with dementia, these stories can spark memories that encourage talking and remembering. You may wish to investigate if there’s a bibliotherapy group for people with dementia near you.
It can be easier to focus without any distracting elements. Set up a quiet reading nook with comfortable seating and good lighting. Turn off the radio and television or choose soothing background music. Eliminating these distractions can help people with dementia concentrate on reading material.
Have suitable reading material available in your loved one’s environment. This lets them easily find something to read when the urge strikes. Suitable material can include books, newspapers and magazines.
Joining a library is a good way to get free access to a wide range of books. You may worry that specialized books for people with dementia and Alzheimer’s disease won’t be available in your local library. However, many libraries have interlibrary loans available so you can access a broader range of books, including educational resources about the conditions. You can also talk to your librarian about ordering these books, as having these resources available benefits the whole community.
If your loved one doesn’t already have a library card, you can help them become a library member. As libraries are generally run by city or county governments, the steps to sign up can be slightly different. However, it’s generally a simple process:
The librarian can also give you information about any dementia-specific programs available at the library.
You may also be able to sign your loved one up online. In some libraries, an online membership gives you access to digital media, such as e-books and audiobooks. In other libraries, residents with an online membership gain full access to the library’s collection. This allows seniors who don’t drive to access a wide range of materials.
Again, the steps to sign up online may differ between libraries, but are generally easy to follow:
If you’re looking for a wider range of books to interest your loved one, you may be able to join a library in a different city or state. Often, state libraries and libraries in big cities allow people from anywhere in the state to join. Your library may also have reciprocal borrowing privileges with other library systems, giving you access to other collections.
Many seniors with dementia have other conditions that can make reading difficult. This can include poor eyesight, stiff finger joints and difficulties accessing materials. The following resources can help older adults continue reading as they age:
Description | Who This Helps | How To Access | Type |
---|---|---|---|
Books printed with larger text | People with poor eyesight | Available in bookstores and libraries | Large print books |
Electronic devices for reading, with the option of enlarging text and adjusting brightness | People with poor eyesight and people with arthritis who find it difficult to grip a book | Can be purchased from bookstores and electronics stores | E-readers |
Screens that sit over text, making it larger | People with poor eyesight | Sold in bookstores and department stores. Also available through assistive technology suppliers | Magnifiers |
A recording of a book read aloud | People who have lost their sight or struggle to focus their eyes for long periods | Available in libraries and for purchase online | Audiobooks |
A stand that holds a book open | Seniors who have difficulty gripping books, such as those with arthritis | Available for purchase in bookstores and department stores | Bookholder or bookrest |
A comfortable chair with good lighting | Anyone who experiences pain from sitting in one spot for long periods | Stand assist chairs and recliners are available from assistive technology suppliers | Comfortable reading spo |
Physical activity helps your brain, but did you know even some sedentary activities can ward off cognitive decline? Creative crafts, reading, and puzzles such as Sudoku or Scrabble keep your brain mentally stimulated. Try word and number games rather than TV or gaming. So, when you rest your body, make sure you're still engaging your brain. Summary: New research highlights that some sedentary activities, like reading or crafting, are better for brain health than others, such as watching TV or gaming. A study of 397 older adults found that mentally stimulating and socially engaging activities support memory and thinking abilities, while passive screen time is linked to cognitive decline.This insight is crucial, as 45% of dementia cases are linked to modifiable lifestyle factors. Researchers suggest swapping passive activities for more engaging ones to protect brain health, even during indulgent holiday marathons.Key FactsCognitive Benefits: Reading and social engagement improve brain function, unlike passive screen time.Preventable Risk: 45% of dementia cases could be reduced through lifestyle changes.Healthy Swaps: Small activity changes, like breaking up TV time with reading or movement, benefit the brain.Source: University of South AustraliaIts that time of the year when most of us get the chance to sit back and enjoy some well-deserved down time. But whether you reach for the TV controller, or a favourite book, your choice could have implications for your long-term brain health, say researchers at the University of South Australia.Assessing the 24-hour activity patterns of 397 older adults (aged 60+), researchers found that the context or type of activity that you engage in, matters when it comes to brain health. And specifically, that some sedentary (or sitting) behaviours are better for cognitive function than others.When looking at different sedentary behaviours, they found that social or mentally stimulating activities such as reading, listening to music, praying, crafting, playing a musical instrument, or chatting with others are beneficial for memory and thinking abilities. Yet watching TV or playing video games are detrimental.Researchers believe that there is likely a hierarchy of how sedentary behaviours relate to cognitive function, in that some have positive effects while others have negative effects.Its a valuable insight that could help reduce risks of cognitive impairment, particularly when at least 45% of dementia cases could be prevented through modifiable lifestyle factors.In Australia, about 411,100 people (or one in every 1000 people) are living with dementia. Nearly two-thirds are women. Globally, the World Health Organization estimates that more than 55 million people have dementia with nearly 10 million new cases each year.UniSA researcher Dr Maddison Mellow says that not all sedentary behaviours are equal when it comes to memory and thinking ability.In this research, we found that the context of an activity alters how it relates to cognitive function, with different activities providing varying levels of cognitive stimulation and social engagement, Dr Mellow says.We already know that physical activity is a strong protector against dementia risk, and this should certainly be prioritised if you are trying to improve your brain health. But until now, we hadnt directly explored whether we can benefit our brain health by swapping one sedentary behaviour for another.We found that sedentary behaviours which promote mental stimulation or social engagement such as reading or talking with friends are beneficial for cognitive function, whereas others like watching TV or gaming have a negative effect. So, the type of activity is important.And, while the move more, sit less message certainly holds true for cardiometabolic and brain health, our research shows that a more nuanced approach is needed when it comes to thinking about the link between sedentary behaviours and cognitive function.Now, as the Christmas holidays roll around, what advice do researchers have for those who really want to indulge in a myriad of Christmas movies or a marathon of Modern Family?To achieve the best brain health and physical health benefits, you should prioritise movement thats enjoyable and gets the heart rate up, as this has benefits for all aspects of health, Dr Mellow says.But even small five-minute time swaps can have benefits. So, if youre dead set on having a Christmas movie marathon, try to break up that time with some physical activity or a more cognitively engaged seated activity, like reading, at some point. That way you can slowly build up healthier habits.This research was conducted by a team of UniSA researchers including: Dr Maddison Mellow, Prof Dot Dumuid, Dr Alexandra Wade, Prof Tim Olds, Dr Ty Stanford, Prof Hannah Keage, and Assoc Prof Ashleigh Smith; with researchers from the University of Leicester, and the University of Newcastle.Author: Annabel MansfieldSource: University of South AustraliaContact: Annabel Mansfield University of South AustraliaImage: The image is credited to Neuroscience NewsOriginal Research: Open access.Should We Work Smarter or Harder for Our Health? A Comparison of Intensity and Domain-Based Time-Use Compositions and Their Associations With Cognitive and Cardiometabolic Health by Maddison Mellow et al. Journals of Gerontology Series A
Having donated nearly two million dollars since the start of the partnership, the Coldwell Banker brand continues its commitment to fostering hopeColdwell Banker Real Estate LLC, a subsidiary of Anywhere Real Estate Inc. (NYSE: HOUS), extends its impactful partnership with St. Jude Childrens Research Hospital into 2025. The CB Supports St. Jude partnership has raised $1.97 million since its establishment in 2020.The inspiring story of David DiGregorio, an affiliated agent with Coldwell Banker Realty in Waltham, Massachusetts, truly reflects the spirit of the Coldwell Banker network. Recognized this year as the Stars of Hope top donor, a title he earned last year and in 2021, DiGregorios efforts serve as a powerful example of dedication, commitment and philanthropy. His generous contributions have not only significantly enhanced the overall impact made by the Coldwell Banker brand, but also have been instrumental in helping St. Jude give vital support to many families in need. The Stars of Hope recognition is honored annually to the top 15 percent of all participating agents who made donations in the CB Supports St. Jude program.The renewal of this program allows Coldwell Banker brand affiliated agents to keep donating a portion of every home sale or purchase to this worthy cause. This dedication guarantees that no family will face the financial burdens of treatment, travel, housing or food expenses while they work to bring their children home.QUOTES:We are deeply committed to the power of community and the profound importance of giving back. Our partnership with St. Jude Childrens Research Hospital exemplifies our unwavering dedication to making a tangible difference in the lives of families confronting unimaginable challenges. As we look ahead to 2025, we take immense pride in the collective impact we continue to achieve, knowing that every contribution brings hope and healing to children in need.Jason Waugh, President of Coldwell Banker Affiliates I am incredibly grateful to be part of a network that is truly committed to making a difference. Contributing to this cause has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my career and seeing the tangible impact of our donations on the lives of these children reinforces the importance of our partnership with St. Jude.David DiGregorio, agent with Coldwell Banker Realty Waltham, Mass About Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLCPowered by its network of over 98,000 affiliated sales professionals in approximately 2,700 offices across 40 countries and territories, the Coldwell Banker system is a leading provider of full-service residential and commercial real estate brokerage services. The Coldwell Banker brand prides itself on its history of expertise, honesty and an empowering culture of excellence since its beginnings in 1906. The Coldwell Banker brand is committed to providing its network of affiliated sales agents with the tools and insights needed to excel in todays marketplace and is known for its bold leadership and dedication to driving the industry forward. The brand was named among the 2024 Womens Choice Award 9 out of 10 Customer Recommended Real Estate Agency. Blue is bold and the integrity and values of the Coldwell Banker brand give the Gen Blue network an unbeatable edge. Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC fully supports the principles of the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Opportunity Act. Each office is independently owned and operated.
Report features fresh insights from U.S. luxury consumers and identifies the top trends dominating the global luxury real estate landscapeColdwell Banker Real Estate LLC, an AnywhereSM (NYSE: HOUS) brand, and the Coldwell Banker Global Luxury program, today released The Trend Report, showcasing increased consumer optimism in luxury real estate as the fourth quarter of 2023 welcomed fresh energy from luxury homebuyers.Over one-third of surveyed luxury consumers feel that 2024 will be a better time to buy or sell a home compared to 2023 indicating enthusiasm for luxury real estate as they pursue their dream home, according to the Coldwell Banker Global Luxury Consumer Survey.Furthermore, the luxury market saw sales during the last quarter of 2023 increase nearly 4.2% for single-family homes and 14.2% for attached properties compared to the previous year, while new listings also increased by 14.2% for single-family homes and 7.2% for attached properties during the same period.[1] On average, luxury consumers surveyed plan on selling their home within the next 10 months.Alongside the luxury consumer survey, The Trend Report explores top trends leading todays luxury homebuying landscape, backed by additional insight and data from Coldwell Banker Global Luxury Property Specialists, the Institute for Luxury Home Marketing and Wealth-X.The top six themes shaping the 2024 luxury real estate market identified by The Trend Report are:Shifting out of Neutral: Influences on the Luxury MarketHave-It-All PropertiesThe Influence of AIThe High Earners, Not Rich Yet (HENRY) FactorForeign BuyersSmart HomesIn addition to the trends and consistent theme that wealthy Americans have a more positive outlook on the real estate market heading into 2024, key findings from the Coldwell Banker Global Luxury Consumer survey include:Continued desire for affluent consumers to purchase a home abroadSocial medias tremendous role in homebuying decisionsLocation being the most important factor to consider when searching for a homeInternational InvestmentsAmerica continues to be a real estate safe haven for many of the worlds wealthiest and influential consumers. According to The Trend Report, international buyers purchasing real estate in the top 5% of the market in 2023 saw 25% growth, indicating that international high-net-worth consumers continue to see to value of investing in the U.S. luxury real estate market. The top international buyers include China, Canada and the United Kingdom, and the most favored cities to purchase within the U.S. are New York, Los Angeles, Miami, San Francisco and Washington, D.C.While international buyers look to America for their next property, wealthy Americans are also exploring opportunities abroad, with nearly 40% of survey respondents planning to buy a home in a foreign location within the next year and two-thirds of affluent consumers saying they plan to purchase a home abroad within the next five years. Europe is the top destination among luxury consumers (29%), followed by North America outside the U.S. (28%) and the Caribbean (23%).Social Media Influences Luxury BuyersSocial media is overwhelmingly influencing luxury consumers to purchase their dream home. A whopping 73% of affluent consumers say they have been influenced by social media to purchase a particular home they desire. Instagram (45%), YouTube (45%) and TikTok (44%) are the top social media platforms that have influenced luxury consumers to purchase their dream home.For the younger generations of luxury homebuyers like millennials and Gen Z, TikTok has especially become an enormously popular platform to connect with real estate agents to become more knowledgeable of the housing market through comprehensive yet digestible, bite-sized videos and virtual walkthroughs of homes. 64% of consumers aged 18-24 have been influenced by social media in their desire to purchase a particular type of home. In addition, 68% of consumers in this age bracket are most likely to have been influenced by TikTok in their decision to purchase their desired home.Discerning Tastes in Luxury LivingWhile high interest rates and low inventory may cause some consumers to settle or pause their home search altogether, luxury consumers have only become more selective when purchasing their newest property. Todays affluent buyers are more discerning than ever, prioritizing location, privacy, wellness amenities, lifestyle experiences and the latest technology.Notably, the top three amenities desired by luxury consumers according to the survey findings are privacy, breathtaking views and garage space. Location is top-of-mind for luxury consumers when choosing a home (45%), followed by price (39%). Wealthy Americans prefer mid-sized to large modern contemporary styled homes, ideally located on the West Coast.High-tech security systems, smart lighting and energy-saving solutions stand out as the top three preferred technologies among luxury consumers. Notably, the preferences in smart home technologies vary across age groups. Older generations (45+) lean towards prioritizing convenience, while the younger demographics (1834) express a preference for privacy and security. Individuals aged 3544 prioritize health tech systems, such as air quality control and water analysis sensors.To explore the Trend Report and full survey results, visit https://www.coldwellbankerluxury.com/.QUOTES:After a year of high interest rates, housing shortages and conflicted consumer sentiment, its encouraging to see such a positive outlook on the luxury real estate market for 2024. If lower mortgage rate trends combined with the new inventory momentum continues, luxury homebuyers could be inspired to move forward with their next home purchase. As they prioritize new amenities, features and even explore overseas options for their next property, Im excited to see our Coldwell Banker Global Luxury Property Specialists guide both buyers and sellers to achieve their dream homes.Michael Altneu, vice president, Coldwell Banker Global LuxuryIn contrast to the pandemic homebuying boom, were seeing luxury homebuyers more than willing to wait to find the perfect house in 2024 that meets every single one of their needs whether its privacy, wellness amenities, lifestyle experiences, latest technology or a combination of all those factors. Specifically, turn-key, move-in ready homes with easy access to the best luxury amenities provide buyers with instant gratification in attaining their desired lifestyle. Whether its purchasing the home that has it all or upgrading their current home with trending features, Im looking forward to seeing both buyers and sellers enjoying the decisions they make for their home this year.Jade Mills, president, Jade Mills Estates and International Ambassador of Coldwell Banker Global Luxury programMethodologyThe Coldwell Banker Global Luxury program collaborated with Censuswide, the Institute for Luxury Home Marketing and Wealth-X to provide insights into real estate trends, market sentiment, property investment and luxury spending preferences. Censuswide surveyed 4,213 U.S. consumers, 25% of which were luxury (1,053 respondents in total). Research was conducted between Nov. 27, 2023 and December 11, 2023. Luxury respondents were classified as those aged 18+ with a household income of $1M+, or who have bought a home in the U.S. worth $1M+ or are planning to purchase a home in the near future worth $1M+. Censuswide abides by and employs members of the Market Research Society which is based on ESOMAR guidelines and principles. For more information on how data was collected and defined, please refer to the full methodology on page 4 of The Trend Report.[1] This data is sourced from an analysis of 130 U.S. markets by the Institute for Luxury Home Marketing. For more information, please reference the methodology section on page 4 in The Trend Report.
Alder Terrace Gardens is a welcoming and nurturing environment for seniors who value their independence but may need some assistance with daily activities. The focus on creating a home-like atmosphere is wonderful, as it helps residents feel comfortable and at ease in their surroundings. Providing home-cooked meals adds an extra touch of warmth and familiarity, while the weekly entertainment and Wellness and Mobility Center offer opportunities for socialization and physical well-being. It's clear that Alder Terrace Gardens is committed to not only meeting the needs of their residents but also enriching their lives with meaningful experiences and a strong sense of community. The location amidst serene surroundings offers a peaceful environment conducive to well-being. The variety of room options ensures that residents can find the accommodation that suits their preferences and needs.The provision of three chef-prepared meals a day, along with snacks and catered holiday events, reflects a commitment to providing nutritious and enjoyable dining experiences. The on-site Wellness & Mobility center further enhances residents' quality of life by focusing on preventative strength building, stretching, and appropriate exercise. This personalized approach to fitness promotes overall health and vitality.Most importantly, the promise to exceed expectations and prioritize the well-being of residents underscores the dedication of Alder Terrace Gardens to providing exceptional care and support. Families can trust that their loved ones will be nurtured and cherished in this welcoming community.