Using your memory in old age
-Researchers have found in a number of studies that reading can improve a patient’s quality of life. The meanings of written sentences can be understood by — and prompt cogent responses from — even those who have difficulty handling verbal exchanges.
Caregivers may be surprised to learn that reading ability is not always destroyed by Alzheimer’s. “All of my research demonstrates that people who were literate maintain their ability to read until the end stages of dementia,” said Michelle S. Bourgeois, a professor of speech and hearing science at Ohio State University… – From NYTimes: April 22, 2010, Many Alzheimer’s Patients Find Comfort in Books
Reading has advantages over “passive” television media.
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WHEN YOU READ:
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pause, reflect, think
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engage actively
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use intellect and emotion together
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develop a longer attention span
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think critically about material
Reading about a subject provides integrative information:
-You can skim over portions that interest you less
-move backwards and forwards, re-read, reflect over material
-challenge the validity of material
-make notes, connect what you have learned to other information
-read to appreciate
-study the prose and writing content to improve you writing
-Join a book group—or start one
-Start listening to books or podcasts – contrast this to reading
-When grandchildren visit, read aloud to them.
-Write you own children’s book and read it aloud to test it
Can’t Decide What To Read?
-Rereading an old favorite
-Follow the writing of a certain author
-Ask friends/family for recommendations.
-Check out book reviews in the local newspaper
-Submit a book review to one an internet book blog
-write a short story or an op-ed piece for the newspaper
-use reading to research a topic of interest
