Benefits of Reading Out Loud and In Home Senior Care
We may think that reading a story out loud is only beneficial for young, school-aged children. However, this is not the case. There are many benefits of reading out loud for all ages. Our older generation was brought up listening to stories on the radio instead of watching the television. When looking for an activity to share with an elderly loved one, bring along a favorite book. This could be a wonderful way to connect with a senior loved one!
One way that reading aloud is beneficial is the fact that it sharpens focus. When we are listening to a story out loud, we are focusing on the words that are being said and other distractions fall by the wayside. While listening, we don’t even realize that we are also building mental skills as well.
When reading something off a paper or on a screen, some words might not make complete sense. When the words are read aloud, they flow easier with other dialogue and take a new life. Hearing the words helps new vocabulary to sink in and will become a part of everyday language.
If an elderly loved one chooses to do the reading out loud, it is beneficial to the body in the form of muscle stimulation. Speaking words involves many muscles of the face and some folks use their entire body to express themselves. An added bonus is we get to hear our loved one’s speak and tell a story.
Another great benefit of reading out loud is being able to breathe new life into favorite novels that have been read many times before. By reading the words out loud, hearing the story makes it feel brand new again. Even if there is no one around to hear the story as it is being read, just hearing yourself speak the words will help to digest it and find new twists in the story that might not have otherwise been noticed when read quietly without speaking.
It is not always practical or desired to read out loud, but whenever the chance arises to speak the words on a printed page, seize the opportunity! It might be a special way to reconnect with an elderly loved one, as well as connecting to a well-loved favorite book.
If you would like to learn more about caring and consistent in home senior care and the many benefits of professional elderly care or dementia and Alzheimer’s care, call Senior Helpers to speak to a senior care specialist today 423-710-1500! The compassionate senior care specialists at Senior Helpers can also guide you through the process of receiving the Veterans Administration Aid and Attendance Benefit if your elderly loved one is a veteran. In home senior care allows your loved one to stay in the comforts of their own home for as long as possible while receiving the level of care they need. Senior Helpers of Chattanooga provides a wide range of services including Alzheimer’s and dementia care, personal assistance, companionship, and so much more to all areas of Chattanooga, Hixson, Cleveland, Ooltewah, Signal Mountain, and surrounding areas.