Reading can be a rewarding and enlightening way to spend your free time, particularly as you age. Research has shown that reading can offer countless wellness benefits for seniors! Whether you’re a lifelong book lover or looking to pick up reading again, there are plenty of interesting and exciting options across many genres and topics for you to explore.
In this blog, we’ve picked 12 of the best books for seniors to help you or a loved one find a great read to enjoy.
Why Reading Is Important for Seniors
Leisure reading can have numerous benefits at any age, but it’s especially valuable for older adults. Let’s take a closer look at why it’s particularly important for seniors to read:
- Improved Cognition: Our cognitive skills often start to decline as we age. Reading helps keep the mind sharp, improves concentration and problem-solving skills, and may even prevent or delay common age-related memory conditions.
- Reduced Stress and Anxiety: For many, books offer a meaningful way to relax and unwind. Recent studies show that reading can help lower stress and anxiety levels. While reading can be enjoyable, it’s essential to take regular breaks to help minimize strain on your eyes.
- Encourages Social Connection: Another key benefit of reading is improved social connections. Many older adults experience feelings of loneliness as they age. Whether joining a book club or discussing a favorite novel with a friend, reading can be a wonderful way to connect with others.
- Better Sleep: Enjoying a book close to bedtime can help create a calming bedtime routine, which can be particularly helpful for seniors with sleep problems. Just be sure to avoid screens or reading in dim light. Instead, you can opt for an e-reader with warm lighting.
The Best Books for Seniors
Whether you’re an avid reader or looking to pick up reading, it’s hard to run out of options when it comes to the best books for seniors. Here are some of our top picks:
1. The Nightingale by Kristin Hannah
The Nightingale by award-winning and bestselling author Kristin Hannah follows the lives of two sisters, Vianne and Isabelle, as they fight for survival during World War II. If you enjoy historical fiction, this is a great read!
2. A Man Called Ove by Fredrik Backman
Ove, the protagonist in A Man Called Ove, is a man struggling to find meaning after his wife’s death. Just when he feels lost, a lively young family moves in next door and gives him a new sense of purpose, demonstrating the importance of human connection.
3. The Thursday Murder Club by Richard Osman
A group of senior friends, united by their love of solving cold cases, use rather unorthodox methods to try to solve a murder. This book makes a terrific read for crime fiction lovers!
4. West With Giraffes by Lynda Rutledge
Based on a true story, this novel follows the journey of a struggling journalist who tries to save two orphaned giraffes that survived a hurricane during the Great Depression. As the story unfolds, readers discover an unlikely bond between the young man and the giraffes during their cross-country journey.
5. These Things Happen by Michael Eon
These Things Happen follows the life of a young boy dealing with the tragic loss of his mom. As he navigates the complexities of growing up, he slowly learns to face life’s uncertainties with resilience and humor.
6. A Brief History of Time by Stephen Hawking
Science lovers will certainly find A Brief History of Time appealing. The author does a great job of explaining complex scientific concepts — such as the origins of the universe, black holes, and the laws of physics — to readers who may have little scientific knowledge.
7. Dementia Reimagined by Tia Powell
In Dementia Reimagined, Powell shares practical strategies to improve the quality of life for individuals with dementia and their caregivers. Throughout the book, she offers fresh perspectives that emphasize how people can still live meaningful, dignified lives — even with memory challenges.
8. Chestnut Street by Maeve Binchy
Chestnut Street by Maeve Binchy is a collection of heartwarming short stories set in a fictional Dublin neighborhood. The author takes us behind the closed doors of some of the town’s residents to show how small but meaningful moments shape everyday life. The book’s short-story format makes it more manageable for many older readers.
9. We Were the Lucky Ones by Georgia Hunter
Inspired by Hunter’s own family history, We Were the Lucky Ones is a deeply moving story of a Jewish family’s plight during World War II. Separated by the chaos of war, each family member experiences their own survival struggles in different parts of Europe as they fight to reunite with their loved ones.
10. Major Pettigrew’s Last Stand by Helen Simonson
A retired and widowed British officer forms an unexpected friendship with a Pakistani shopkeeper. As their bond deepens, they find themselves on opposite sides of culture and tradition. Can their relationship survive the risks?
11. This Chair Rocks: A Manifesto Against Ageism by Ashton Applewhite
Applewhite uses a mix of research and personal stories to challenge common prejudices and myths about aging. The author also highlights the many positives of getting older and encourages readers to push back against ageist attitudes.
12. The Wisdom of Morrie: Living and Aging Creatively and Joyfully by Morrie Schwartz
In The Wisdom of Morrie: Living and Aging Creatively and Joyfully, author Morrie Schwartz shares profound insights on life, aging gracefully, and the importance of human connection. Drawing from his own experiences and the lessons he taught during his final days battling ALS, Morrie emphasizes the value of embracing change, nurturing relationships, and finding joy in the little things.
Key Factors to Consider When Choosing Books for Seniors
While reading offers many wonderful benefits, not all books are perfect for older adults. If you’re considering picking up a book for yourself or a loved one, there are some important factors to keep in mind for an enjoyable reading experience, including:
- Readability and Print Size: Our eyesight can decline with age, making reading small fonts difficult. Books for seniors with large, well-spaced fonts can help make reading more pleasant for older adults.
- Engaging and Enjoyable Content: It’s also important to consider your interests and preferences. Whether you enjoy classic literature or historical fiction, the best books are the ones that help bring you joy.
- Complexity and Length: While reading can be fun and exciting, a book that’s too long or overly complex may not be a good fit for some older adults. Shorter novels or those with a collection of short stories can be great books for seniors.
- Accessibility: Seniors may experience hearing or vision challenges as they age. Luckily, there are many formats that can make many books more accessible and enjoyable for older readers. If you’re picking up a book for someone you love, it’s important to choose a format that fits their needs. Large-print books, lightweight paperbacks, and audiobooks can be great alternatives.
Senior Living With StoryPoint Group Communities
At StoryPoint Group communities, we believe your golden years should be fun and relaxed. From exciting activities and events like book clubs, to delicious, chef-prepared meals shared with friends, our warm and vibrant communities are designed to help our residents make the most of every stage of their journey. To learn more about how we can help support you or your loved one, contact us or call us at 1-844-275-9990.
