“Since the search was for Dad, I let him have a lot of the input as to where he wanted to go. This community was nice. We liked it a lot. The community appeared clean and well maintained. The staff was nice, friendly, and professional.”
The Benefits of Book Clubs Back
If you feel like happiness is talking about books with friends, then a book club might just be what you are looking for. On the other hand, if you don’t consider yourself much of a reader, you may just want to give a book club a try anyway! Reading improves your cognition and mental sharpness, and book clubs can improve your social, mental, and emotional health. Sounds like a match made in heaven, right? Consider these benefits of participating in a book club as you enjoy your golden years:
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Connecting With Like-Minded People
One of the most important benefits of book clubs is the social interaction you experience with your peers, with the community staff, and others. From meeting new people, making new friends, to sharing stories and thoughts; book clubs are a great setting to connect with someone else. The book will provide a common interest to break the ice and get a good discussion going.
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Staying Sharp
Studies have shown that reading improves brain function. As you read books you otherwise may not have (as they are suggested in the club), you not only enjoy the benefits of reading to prepare for the meeting, but your thoughts and ideas are expanded throughout the discussion as you meet together. You horizons will broaden as you explore authors and topics you otherwise may not have just by being in a book club!
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Get Inspired
It’s no secret that reading about historical events and other’s experiences is very inspiring. Maybe a book you read with the club will inspire a new interest or hobby? Maybe you will be curious about a new skill or talent you’d like to develop? There’s no doubt that new interests will arise from the books you read and interactions you have from book club.
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Contribute to Those Around You
It may seem simple, but book clubs provide a forum in which seniors can contribute to the community. Sharing knowledge and things you have learned with others renews confidence and offers a sense of pride. In no time, you may start suggesting the next book to read!
A book club is a great place for seniors to stay sharp, contribute, and make and keep friends. If you need assistance in order to attend book club, reach out to your community staff to make arrangements to go. If you feel that your vision is too impaired to participate, find out if there is large print, audio, or e-reader versions available for you. A book club just may be what you’ve been looking for!