When you choose to be in an independent living community, you have the freedom to go for activities that will be great for you. Stay active, without compromising your health, and make sure you get all the benefits that you want. For your mental health, which is one of the focuses of these communities, reading is a great thing to start with. Why is it considered a good hobby?
Improves Memory
Back in the day, you might end up grabbing a book when you do not have something to do, or whenever you want to get your mind off certain issues or stress for the day. That makes it a great pastime, to the young ones and once young. For older adults, it has been shown to assist in improving one’s memory. It is a great form of exercise for the brain, allowing you to remember many things – from the plot and characters to all other essential elements of the story.
The result of this will be to maintain a sense of short-term recall and retention which is essential as you age. You know very well that aging may result in cognitive decline, and before that even happens, make book reading a hobby for you to enjoy. Keep your mind sharper just by reading your favorite book in the library, which is one of the amenities to take advantage of in independent living.
Delays the Onset of Alzheimer’s Disease
Studies show that this is one of the benefits of reading in independent living. Since it improves memory circuits, the chances of acquiring this disease becomes lower. Reading has its way of building your brain’s neuronal connection reserve, that is why it is hard for dementia to impact you at this time.
There is Simple Joy to It
As mentioned awhile back, a book may have been your partner whenever you felt some stress in the past. This just shows that reading one will bring joy to you as the reader. You will also find joy in sharing these stories with your friends and family. As a result, loneliness will surely be at bay.
The good thing about reading is that it is not just about holding the physical book. For those who are experiencing a decline in their sight, there are large print books, as well as e-readers where texts can be zoomed so you can still enjoy the book. Audio books are also great ways to listen to the story that is inside the physical book you love.
Great for Building Relationships
Aside from being able to talk with friends and family members about the book you have read, and sparking conversation thereafter, a book is a great way to build relationships in an independent living community. You can share the library with another resident who loves books, and after that, have the chance to have tea together and talk about what you have read. You can recommend the book to each other, and be reading buddies for the days to come.
Reading books, whether in an independent living community or at your own homes, will offer the above-mentioned benefits. Now is the chance to take advantage of them.
