With National “Read A Book Day” approaching in early September, what better time to learn about the benefits of reading for seniors than now! As a homecare agency, we know just how important it is to maintain your best possible physical and mental health. Find out the benefits of reading from us here at Freedom Home Care!
The first benefit of reading regularly is that it will help enhance memory skills. While reading on a regular basis, it can be very critical to the short-term recall of events that happen each day. Think of it as a mini-workout. Each time you read, it can strengthen your brain’s neural network and allow you to become more receptive to learning and remembering things.
Reducing stress is another benefit you can get out of reading a good book. When you sit down to read a book your body unwinds and allows your mind to get lost in what is going on in the book. After many conducted studies, researchers found that it only takes about 6 minutes for the heart rate and muscle tensions to relax once they opened up a book.
Similar to enhancing memory skills as stated above, reading can also delay the onset of Alzheimer’s and Dementia. A senior science adviser to the Alzheimer’s Association, Dr. Zaven Khachaturian found that challenging the brain in reading can build a reserve of neuronal connections. What he is saying is that it would take longer for the Alzheimer’s process to destroy enough neurons for symptoms to begin.
Sleep longer and better when you begin reading regularly. A benefit to reading is that when you do it in bed, it allows your body to be more relaxed and tired. It is better for you than trying to fall asleep in front of a TV or other digital screens. Not only will you fall asleep faster, but you will have fewer disruptions in your sleep, allowing you to rest longer.
With national read a book day quickly approaching, it might be time for you to start deciding what your next read will be. Not only will you enjoy a good read, but the health benefits will be amazing for you. You can even spend Senior Citizens Day reading with your family members. What are you waiting for? Start reading today!
At Freedom Home Care Highland Park, we provide multiple ranges of nursing services for you or a loved one. Interested in learning more about what we do? Give us a call or visit us online. Our team at Freedom Healthcare is ready to fit all of your homecare needs. Interested in volunteering? Give us a call today.
