Reading a good book is a great way to pass the time, and it’s a hobby that can be enjoyed as a group. That’s why many seniors in retirement communities consider joining or starting book clubs. Here are five reasons you need to make a book club a part of your life story.
1. Reading sharpens the mind
It’s an unfortunate truth that, for many, the mind starts to decline around the age of 65. The good news? It is possible to slow or even stop this process by keeping it stimulated. In fact, reading books can delay the onset of Alzheimer’s, dementia, or other types of cognitive decline. When you read, you expose your mind to new words, names, ideas, and information. You need to recall and understand them to get the most out of the book, thus stimulating your brain in the process. Studies have shown reading leads to:
- Improved verbal and visual comprehension
- Increased ability to process information
- Enhanced memory and vocabulary
- Development of new neurons
2. Book clubs help you connect with people
Seniors are often more isolated than younger adults, and making new friends can be difficult as we get older. Participating in a book club allows you to find fellow book lovers and widen your social circle. It’s an opportunity to meet new people, share ideas and opinions, improve how you interact with people, and create lasting relationships.
3. You will learn new things
From historical fiction to contemporary novels and current events, book clubs delve into a variety of subjects, naturally expanding your knowledge and cultural awareness in the process. Being a part of the group introduces you to new ideas, sparks your curiosity, and allows you to dive into new topics you never knew you had interest in.
4. You can make contributions of your own
In addition to learning from others, you have the chance to contribute opinions and knowledge of your own. Speaking in front of a group might seem daunting at first, but as you become more comfortable, you’ll find it’s a great way to express yourself and feel understood, which does wonders for your emotional wellbeing.
5. Improve your mental health
Studies show seniors who read at least 20 pages per day have healthier mental well-being than those who don’t. Not only will it improve your mental flexibility, reading can also act as a form of meditation. It is known to reduce stress by calming the mind and putting it into a relaxed state. Reading can also be therapeutic, as it allows you to escape reality and everyday life.
Seniors who are curious, social, and enjoy reading love participating in book clubs. In addition to meeting with others for discussion, you will also have something to look forward to for the rest of the week. After a late-morning nap or a day on the golf course, you just open up your book and return to another world of enjoyment. In other words, the book club keeps on going after the group meeting is over! Consider joining or starting one today.