If your loved one has Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia, you can help them enjoy reading by using adapted books. These books have summarized text, large print, or images in place of words. However, just because a book has these dementia-friendly features doesn’t mean it isn’t still interesting and age-appropriate. Readers can keep their dignity while reading books suited to each stage of dementia. Using adapted books is also a fun way to help your loved one reminisce and maintain cognitive abilities.
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It may not be apparent why reading benefits someone with memory loss, especially as their cognitive abilities decline. However, simply participating in a favorite pastime — like holding a book and turning the pages — can help your loved one feel at ease by encouraging reminiscence and nostalgia. Stimulating this implicit memory of reading can be a key part of your loved one’s overall care strategy.[01]
Reading is not only great for reminiscence. The cognitive stimulation of reading can also help seniors with dementia maintain their cognitive abilities.[02]
Scientific studies consistently show that a habit of reading and other forms of cognitive exercise can reduce or slow cognitive decline and leads to higher brain density.[03] There is even proof that reading helps to protect the existing memory in people who have brain damage and memory disease.[04]
Below are lists of books that are adapted to each stage of dementia.
In early-stage dementia, your loved one might still be able to live independently and finish tasks on their own, but they may have trouble remembering details such as a person’s name.[05] Books for this stage have easy-to-read sentences that make up brief paragraphs and chapters, and they’re similar to average books. Pictures and stories centered around familiar topics help seniors stay engaged.
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If your loved one shows signs of cognitive impairment, such as sudden personality changes and the need for help with daily activities, they may be in the middle stages of dementia.[05] Books for this stage use pictures and illustrations to help your loved one recall memories. Simple descriptions and page layouts make it easier for seniors to focus on the story.
If your loved one experiences severe memory loss and isn’t able to control their movements anymore, they may be in the late stages of dementia.[05] Books for this stage are designed for seniors and caregivers to flip through together. The illustrations should prompt you to ask questions and help your loved one reminisce.
Books that are easy for your loved ones to read can give them a feeling of success that boosts self-esteem. Also, reminiscence can put them at ease, and cognitive stimulation may help them maintain their current abilities.
Promoting reading is also a way for caregivers to find a moment for themselves while their loved one enjoys the activity. Or, if you choose to read with your loved one, it can deepen the bond you share.
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You can also consider these other engaging activities to keep your dementia-affected loved one cognitively stimulated:
Or, if you’re looking for a book to help you understand what your loved one is experiencing, you’ll find numerous resources for caregivers in this article on the best books on dementia for caregivers. Whether you’re interested in lifestyle tips or in more ways to provide cognitive stimulation, there are books that touch on every subject.
If you think your loved one might need additional assistance or stimulation that you may not be able to provide, reach out to A Place for Mom’s Senior Living Advisors. These experts can help you find professional memory care caregivers in your area, all at no cost to you.
Son, G., Therrien, B., & Whall, A. (2002) Implicit memory and familiarity among elders with dementia. Journal of Nursing Scholarship.
Kawashima, R., Okita, K., Yamazaki, R., Tajima, N., Yoshida, H., Taira, M., Iwata, K., Sasaki, T., Maeyama, K., Usui, N., & Sugimoto, K. (2005, March 1). Reading aloud and arithmetic calculation improve frontal function of people with dementia. The Journals of Gerontology: Series A.
Wilson, R. S., Boyle, P. A., Yu, L., Barnes, L. L., Schneider, J. A., & Bennett, D. A. (2013, July 23). Life-span cognitive activity, neuropathologic burden, and cognitive aging. Neurology.
Fisher Center for Alzheimer’s Research Foundation. (2014, April 7). Keep reading to keep Alzheimer’s at bay. Alzinfo.org.
Alzheimer’s Association. Stages of Alzheimer’s.
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