Reading remains one of America’s favorite pastimes, and for good reason. Relaxing with a good book is beneficial for people of all ages, but especially the elderly, as it can reduce stress, provide mental simulation, and even improve memory. Listening to a book is more convenient and enjoyable for some, and e-books allow you to enlarge the text, a perfect option for older people who may have difficulty reading fine print. books also make great gifts for the elderly reader in your life.
Here’s our list of 10 books for older adults to explore. With a mix of genres, from mystery to poetry, there’s sure to be something to catch your loved one’s eye!
You are reading: Books for older adults
list of books for older readers
- the musical comedy the 1940 murders of john bishop. Told in the style of 1940s melodramas, this book is an excellent mystery with a touch of comedy. It’s a great book to read aloud as you or your loved one will share lots of laughs.
- I’m too young to be seventy by Judy Viorst. this is a wonderful collection of poems that are witty, wise, and moving. It’s the perfect book for older adults who have young spirits.
- A Man Called Ove by Frederick Backman. This best-selling fiction novel features a moody and bitter 59-year-old widower, with whom you can’t help but fall in love. It’s also a movie, so when you or your older loved one is done reading, the movie awaits.
- disrupt aging: a bold new path to living your best life at every stage by jo ann jenkins. Written by AARP CEO Jo Ann Jenkins, this book changes the conversation about aging. Jenkins focuses on three areas: health, wealth, and self, inspiring people to live each year to the fullest.
- ivy malone mystery series by lorena mccourtney. This series of mysteries is popular for its cute characters, including Detective Ivy Malone, who is also in her senior year. older readers will enjoy mystery after mystery.
- first of life by p.d. Bekendam This book is for anyone who likes unexpected stories and is about a doctor who leaves his own lavish career behind to become a janitor in a retirement community. It’s packed with tons of humor and wacky characters!
- major pettigrew’s last stand by helen simonson. Set in the English countryside, this novel features a retired British Army officer and a Pakistani merchant. they get together and eventually fall in love. however, the challenges of culture and tradition, similar to romeo and juliet, make for a compelling read.
- the little old lady who broke all the rules by catharina ingelman-sundberg. This book is about a group of elderly people who are fed up with early bedtimes and bland meals and decide to regain their independence by committing a robbery. It’s a comedy of errors that will keep older readers turning pages until the very end.
- Rules for Growing Old: A Wry and Witty Guide to Life by Roger Rosenblatt. PBS News Commentator Roger Rosenblatt provides practical advice through a wry sense of humor for those who want to live longer, fuller lives.
- call it a valerie hobbs gift. this novel is about two people who meet late in life and fall in love, even though they are an unlikely match. It’s a moving and sentimental read – tissues may be needed.
See Also: 12 Essential Books to Give Your Graduate – Explore the Bible
Reading is a wonderful way to improve the quality of life for older people. We hope you or your senior loved one will add one of these books to your reading list, and maybe even be inspired to start a senior book club!