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Dementia patients often find comfort and pleasure in reading books. A good book can provide stimulation and companionship. A study by NCBI suggests that reading helps reduce the risk of cognitive decline in older adults. Another research supported the fact that dementia patients who are avid readers, experienced a lower rate of cognitive decline.
In this blog, we will discuss the best 28 of our favorite books for dementia patients that they can enjoy in the comfort of their homes or at a nursing home or assisted living. So, if you’re looking for the best books for a senior loved one with dementia, look no further! We’ve compiled a list of 28 must-reads that will help keep your loved one’s brain active and engaged. From self-help, to nonfiction stories to engaging novels, there’s something for everyone on this comprehensive list. So be sure to check it out today!
5 Benefits of reading books for dementia patients
Dementia is a debilitating condition that can cause loss of memory, confusion, and changes in mood and behavior. While there is no cure for dementia, there are ways to manage the symptoms and help patients maintain their quality of life. One such way is through reading books. Here are 5 major benefits of reading books for dementia patients:
1. Improve memory and cognitive function
A study found that reading can help delay the onset of dementia, and that book readers had a 32% lower risk of developing the condition. The act of reading engages multiple areas of the brain, including the regions responsible for vision, language, and critical thinking. As a result, reading can help to keep the mind sharp and delay cognitive decline. For dementia patients, reading books can be an important part of maintaining mental function and memory.
2 Maintain communication skills
Dementia patients often have difficulty communicating with family, friends, and caregivers. This can be frustrating for both the patient and their loved ones. However, reading books can help to improve communication skills for dementia patients. When reading aloud, patients are encouraged to use facial expressions and gestures to convey meaning. This helps to promote social interaction and reduce feelings of isolation.
3. Provides a sense of companionship
Interacting with books – whether it’s listening to audiobooks or engaging in conversations about the story – can help to stimulate critical thinking skills. What’s more, reading can provide a much-needed sense of connection and companionship for dementia patients who may feel isolated from the world.
4. Reduce stress and anxiety
Studies show that reading can help reduce stress and anxiety by 68%. Researchers believe that reading helps to distract the mind from negative thoughts and worries, and allows patients to escape into a different world. In addition, reading can help to improve sleep quality, another important factor in reducing stress and anxiety.
5. Promotes social interaction
Many people think of reading as a solitary activity, but it can actually be quite social. When people read together, they have the opportunity to discuss the book, exchange ideas, and bond over shared interests. For dementia patients, reading can be an especially valuable way to connect with others.
What to Look for in Books for Seniors with Dementia?
When looking for books for seniors with dementia, it is important to keep a few things in mind.
- First, the book should be in large print and easy to read.
- Second, it should have short chapters or sections so that the reader can easily follow the story.
- Third, avoid books with complex plots or multiple characters
- Fourth, opt for books with strong visual elements, such as large print and lots of pictures.
- Finally, it is important to choose books that the senior enjoys. If they prefer non-fiction, look for books that focus on their favorite subject matter.
Best 28 Dementia Books for 2022: Designed for Seniors with Dementia
If you or someone you love is living with dementia, it’s important to find resources to help you cope. This list of the best 28 dementia books for 2022 will help you get started. Whether you’re looking for information on the disease itself or advice on how to care for someone with dementia, or just want to dive into a different world of fiction, these books have something for everyone.
Memory Books for Dementia Patients
Memory books are a simple yet powerful tool for dementia patients that can help bring moments of joy and connection. A memory book can be a photo album or journal that captures past happy memories and shared experiences. For someone living with dementia, looking through a memory book with captions can help to preserve a sense of self and connection to others, as well as providing moments of enjoyment. Some good ones would be:
1. List it! Activity book for Dementia Patients
This activity book is designed specifically to help those suffering from dementia or Alzheimer’s, as well as other elderly citizens with memory loss. Unlike other books aimed at the elderly, this one is tailored specifically for those with various stages of dementia. It helps to stimulate the mind and keep memories alive by providing a variety of activities to participate in.
2. 1950s Memory Lane
This book is a compilation of memories from the 1950s. It contains stories and anecdotes from people who lived through that decade, as well as photos and other memorabilia. The book offers a snapshot of life in the 1950s, from fashion to popular culture to politics. It is a fun read for anyone who wants to revisit that era.
3. American Landmarks Picture Book
This book is a large print picture book that contains images of many different American landmarks. It is designed to help dementia patients recall memories and experiences from the past. Each page also includes a brief description of the landmark, which can help spark additional conversations and memories.
Communication Books for Dementia Patients
Dementia can be a very isolating and frustrating condition, not just for the person suffering from it, but also for their loved ones. However, communication books can be a valuable tool for both patients and their caregivers. Some good communication books for dementia patients include:
1. Dementia Together: How to Communicate to Connect
This book is all about how to communicate with someone who has dementia in order to connect and form a bond. It offers advice on how to have meaningful conversations, deal with challenging behaviors and create a supportive environment through illustrations, real-life stories, and humor. The author’s goal is to help caregivers and loved ones find common ground with their loved one who has dementia, and ultimately improve the quality of their lives together.
2. The Picture Book of Dogs in Costumes
This book is a compilation of pictures of dogs in costumes. This book is a compilation of photos of dogs in costumes, with a brief description of each. The purpose of the book is to help encourage peaceful interaction with dementia patients. The photos are cute and whimsical and are sure to put a smile on anyone’s face and calm them down.
3. When Waves Rise
When Waves Rise is about dementia and how to navigate the difficult moments associated with it. The author, Sarah Viola, shares her own personal experience of dealing with dementia for a long 11 years. The book is written in a compassionate and understanding way, offering readers hope and support.
Picture Books for Dementia Patients
Picture books can be a great way to engage dementia patients. The visuals can help to trigger memories and spark conversations. The repetition of familiar stories can also provide a sense of comfort and security. And the simple act of flipping through the pages can help to calm and focus the mind. Here are some good choices:
1. The Splendor of Birds
This picture book by Emma Rose Sparrow celebrates the beauty of birds. It features stunning illustrations of different types of birds. To keep things less complicated, it avoids any written description. This book is a wonderful way for dementia patients to connect with nature and promote relaxation and peace.
2. The Fabulous Flower Book
The Fabulous Flower Book by Lucky Designs is a beautiful book with 40+ pages of different flowers with brief descriptions. It aims to have a calming effect on Alzheimer’s and dementia patients by reminding them of fond memories of receiving flowers from a loved one.
3. The Happy Book Landscapes
Rose Raleigh’s Happy Book Landscapes feature happy, brightly-colored landscapes and sceneries with little inspirational quotes to invoke tranquility and calmness. The images are cheerful and uplifting, and they are sure to bring a smile to the reader’s face. It is a great read for dementia patients.
Activity Books for Dementia Patients
There are a wide variety of activities that can be included in these books, such as puzzles, games, and brain teasers. Many of these activities are designed to help stimulate cognitive function and memory recall. In addition, they can also provide a sense of accomplishment. Here are some great activity books for dementia patients:
1. Alzheimer’s Association’s Big Brain Puzzle Book
This book is a compilation of Alzheimer’s Association-approved list of puzzles and games aimed at aiding in the development of cognitive skills and preventing Alzheimer’s disease. Many of the puzzles are designed to stimulate memory, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills. The book also includes a section on how to get started with brain-training exercises, as well as advice on how to keep your brain healthy throughout your life.
2. Fun & Easy Activity Book for Adults
This book is a great resource for caregivers looking for ways to stimulate and engage their loved ones with dementia. It has various memory games, puzzles, and connect-the-dots to keep participants engaged and entertained.
3. Picture Puzzles: Spot the Difference
This is an activity book by Cottage Door Press and Parragon Books with over 100 spot-the-difference games for people with late-stage dementia. The goal is to find the differences between the pictures and spot them. It requires close inspection and attention to detail to find the differences in the pictures.
Coloring Books for Dementia Patients
Coloring books are not just for kids. For seniors with dementia, coloring can be an especially valuable activity. The act of coloring helps to quiet the mind and focus attention. Additionally, the process of choosing colors and filling in shapes can help to stimulate memories and recall. Here are some excellent coloring books for dementia patients:
1. Simple Coloring Book For Adults: Large Print Coloring Book
This book is a simple coloring book for adults that features large print coloring pages. The pages are designed to help adults relax and de-stress, with intricate designs and patterns to color in. It includes large simple designs that are perfect for those with low vision and cognitive problems.
2. Large Print Coloring Book: Easy Patterns for Adults
Another great coloring book that consists of easy patterns that are great for adults to color in. The designs are simple and can be completed in a short amount of time, making them perfect for busy people who want to relax and de-stress. The large pages are easy to color in, and the illustrations are beautiful and varied.
3. Coloring Book of Psalms
This coloring book contains illustrations and prayers based on the Psalms, scripture from the Old Testament of the Bible. It is meant to be a tool for prayer and meditation, encouraging conversations and reinforcing hope.
Word Search Books for Dementia Patients
Word search books can be a great activity for dementia patients. They help to keep the mind active and can be a soothing and calming activity. Look for books with large print and clear pictures. The puzzles should also be fairly simple, with a limited number of words. Here are some great word search books for dementia patients:
1. The Big Book of Word Search Puzzles
If your elderly loved one enjoys word searches, then this book is definitely for them! It includes puzzles of all different levels of difficulty, so it is appropriate for dementia patients of all stages. The puzzles are creative and includes and covers a variety of topics.
2. The Everything Giant Book of Word Searches
This book is a compilation of 300 word searches, each with its own unique theme. The puzzles are varied and engaging, making it a fun and challenging read. The themes include literature, popular culture, nature, history, and geography. This book is a great way to pass the time and keep your brain stimulated.
3. The New York Times Crossword Puzzle Dictionary, Third Edition
The New York Times Crossword Puzzle Dictionary is a comprehensive guide to solving crossword puzzles. It includes tips for beginners and more advanced solvers, as well as a dictionary of all the words used in New York Times crosswords. The book also includes puzzles to help readers practice their skills.
Audiobooks for Dementia Patients
Audiobooks can provide a much-needed outlet for people with dementia who may be feeling isolated and disconnected from the world. Listening to a story can help to stimulate the mind and bring back memories, both happy and sad. Audiobooks can also provide a welcome distraction from the mundane tasks of daily living. Some good audiobooks for dementia patients include:
1. The Memory Bible
The Memory Bible is a self-help book written by Dr. Gary Smal and Gigi Vorgan, focused on helping people improve their memory. The book provides readers with tips and tools to help them remember names, faces, information, and more.
2. The Lord of the Rings
The Lord of the Rings is a three-part book series written by J.R.R. Tolkien. The story follows the journey of Frodo Baggins, a hobbit, as he attempts to destroy the One Ring and defeat the Dark Lord Sauron. It’s a timeless classic and well-loved by people of all ages.
3. The Catcher in the Rye
The Catcher in the Rye is a novel by J.D. Salinger about a teenage boy named Holden Caulfield who is kicked out of a prestigious boarding school and becomes a wanderer in New York City. The Catcher in the Rye is a great book for seniors to read because it captures the angst and confusion that often comes with this stage of life. Holden’s journey is one that many seniors can relate to.
4. To Kill a Mockingbird
To Kill a Mockingbird is a novel by Harper Lee set in the 1930s in the fictional Maycomb County, Alabama, and tells the story of a white lawyer who defends a black man accused of a crime he did not commit. It is widely regarded as one of the best novels of the 20th century and was awarded the Pulitzer Prize.
5. One Hundred Years of Solitude
One Hundred Years of Solitude is a novel by Gabriel García Márquez that tells the story of the Buendía family over the course of several generations. The story is full of magical realism, and it explores themes of love, loss, and change. This book is a great read for seniors because it deals with many universal themes that are relevant at any stage in life.
6. The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn
Mark Twain’s classic tale of a young boy and his friendship with a runaway slave is a great read for seniors. The characters are richly drawn and the story is full of humor and adventure. Huck Finn embodies the spirit of independence and determination that is so admirable in seniors, and his adventures provide plenty of inspiration and entertainment.
Easy-to-Follow Fictions for Dementia Patients
Easy fictional books for dementia patients can provide much-needed moments of escape and relief from the challenges of the condition. While it is important to select books that are appropriate for the individual’s reading level, it is also important to choose stories that will be enjoyable and engaging. Here are some great choices:
1. The Sandy Shoreline
The Sandy Shoreline by Emma Rose Sparrow is an easy-to-follow but enjoyable story about a woman discovering the treasures of nature. It’s a great read for seniors with dementia because it is simple, and helps them reminisce about happy memories from their own lives.
2. The Monkey’s Paw and Other Tales of Mystery
This horror classic by W. W. Jacobs is an excellent choice with moral messages to live a more fulfilling life. It is a great read for seniors because it is full of suspense and mystery. Each story is well-crafted and will keep readers on the edge of their seats.
3. A Love That Waited
A Love That Waited by Brandon Johnson is a poignant love story about a couple, John and Mildred who overcome the test of time and hardships of a war-torn country. Throughout the story, we see the lengths John and Mildred will go to in order to stay together. They are a testament to the power of love and determination.
4. The Golden Treasury of Poetry
A collection of beautiful poems by Louis Untermeyer that one can read out loud to a loved one or enjoy in isolation all the same. It is a great read for seniors with dementia because it contains poems that are lyrical and thought-provoking.
How to make a memory book for dementia patients?
Creating a memory book for dementia patients can be a meaningful and therapeutic activity. The purpose of a memory book is to help stimulate memories, provide comfort, and promote engagement. Here are some steps to guide you in making a memory book:
1. Choose a format
Decide on the type of memory book you want to create. You can opt for a physical scrapbook, a digital photo album, or a combination of both.
2. Gather materials
For a physical memory book, gather a scrapbook or photo album, colored paper, glue, scissors, markers, stickers, and any other decorative items you want to include. You’ll need a computer or tablet with photo editing software for a digital memory book.
3. Select meaningful photos
Collect photographs that hold significance for the person with dementia. Choose pictures from different phases of their life, such as childhood, adolescence, adulthood, and significant life events. Include images of family members, friends, pets, and familiar places.
4. Add captions and descriptions
Write captions or descriptions for each photo, describing the people, places, and events depicted. It helps trigger memories and encourages conversation.
5. Include personal mementos
Incorporate items that hold sentimental value, such as letters, postcards, ticket stubs, or small keepsakes. These objects can evoke memories and create a tactile experience.
6. Organize the content
Arrange the photos and mementos logically, such as chronologically or by theme. That will help create a cohesive narrative and make it easier for the person to follow.
7. Decorate and personalize
Use colorful paper, stickers, and markers to decorate the pages of the memory book. Tailor the design to the individual’s preferences, incorporating their favorite colors, patterns, or themes.
8. Involve loved ones
Reach out to family members, friends, and caregivers to contribute their memories, messages, or artwork to the memory book. It adds a personal touch and fosters a sense of connection.
9. Add familiar reminders
To provide a sense of familiarity, include personal items such as a favorite perfume or cologne, a small swatch of fabric from a treasured outfit, or a significant piece of jewelry.
10. Use visual cues
Consider labeling people or objects in the photos with large, clear captions to aid recognition and comprehension. You can also add simple drawings or symbols to provide additional context.
11. Make it interactive
Consider adding interactive elements to the memory book, such as lift-the-flap sections, textured materials, or audio recordings. These features can engage multiple senses and enhance the overall experience.
12. Share and revisit
Spend quality time with the person with dementia, sharing the memory book together. Go through each page, discuss the photos, and encourage reminiscing. Revisit the memory book regularly to reinforce memories and provide comfort.
Final Thoughts
Dementia can be a difficult diagnosis for both patients and their loved ones. If you are looking for a good book to give to a loved one with this debilitating disease, these are 28 of the best books for dementia patients. All of them were written with the specific needs of dementia patients, and they have all been proven helpful for people suffering from this disease.
So, whether you are looking for a book to help your loved one keep their mind active or one that will provide some emotional support, these books should have you covered. We hope this list of books is helpful.
Do you have any other suggestions for great books for dementia patients? Let us know in the comments!
FAQs
1. Are coloring books good for dementia patients?
The benefits of coloring books for dementia patients may vary depending on the individual. However, generally speaking, coloring books can be a fun and engaging way for dementia patients to pass the time. It can also provide a sense of focus and calm, as well as a way to express themselves creatively.
2. How to make a memory book for dementia patients?
A memory book can be a great way to help dementia patients remember happy memories. You can include photos, newspaper clippings, and other memorabilia in the book to help jog the patient’s memory. You can also include blank pages them to write down their own memories. Make sure it is easy to navigate and follow.
3. Why do dementia patients just sit and work puzzle books?
There can be many reasons why dementia patients just sit and work on puzzle books for hours. One reason could be that the patients enjoy doing puzzles and it provides a sense of satisfaction and pleasure. Another reason could be that puzzles help to keep the mind active and focused, which can help to delay the onset of dementia symptoms. Additionally, puzzles can be a great way for dementia patients to socialize with others, as they can work on the puzzles together.
4. Does reading books help with dementia?
Some studies have shown that reading can improve cognitive function, memory, and communication in people with dementia. Additionally, reading can provide a sense of pleasure and stimulation, which can be beneficial for overall well-being.
5. What do dementia patients like to read?
There is no definitive answer to this question as different patients will have different preferences. However, some popular genres that dementia patients often enjoy include mystery novels, romance novels, and autobiographies. They often enjoy reading magazines, books, and other materials that are easy to understand and hold their attention.
