The Gift of Reading
If you have a senior in your family who has always loved to read, Audible would be a wonderful gift. With aging it often becomes harder to see and harder to concentrate. Yet still the love of a good story inspires, cheers, and holds their attention.
Often in assisted living or memory care homes, volunteers come to read for an hour a couple of times a week. The residents love it, and will talk about it for days. Favorites include biographies of historic figures, such as Lincoln, Teddy Roosevelt. Mysteries are another hit, whether old or new. From the classics to current authors like James Patterson, you will find fans. Comic relief from Bill Bryson or Betty White. You can see how far it can go.
They may need your help loading the books, perhaps through your computer. You can give a gift of a single book or three books, or enroll them in a membership if you know they will enjoy it. It can be cancelled at any time.
I have nothing but good things to say about their customer service. Any time I have had an issue, they have been available immediately and resolved the issue quickly. You can even return a book if you don’t like it or if you find it inappropriate.
These days especially when there seems to be less and less of interest on television, in spite of hundreds of channels, listening to a book instead is a perfect way to relax.
Click here to read more about the gift of an iPod.
Headphones for Comfort and Quiet
An iPod will come with a simple set of ear buds. If you think they would do better with a larger variety, you might try a set like this one. It is well cushioned, so comfortable to leave on while they listen. It might be easier for those who are somewhat hard of hearing too. With an iPod and earphones, they can even listen in a group situation, if they prefer to hang out in an open area with other residents.
Around Ear Head phones: One of the most popular entry level headsets…For an audiobook, the sound you get with these is excellent. Actually most buyers appreciate the sound for music as well.
You can see the full selection of headsets, including the Bose here.
The Mini Speaker
When listening in their room, or if they aren’t alone, whether spouse or roommate, you may want to use a little mini speaker. Of course Bose is generally considered the best. You can see their small effective speaker here. But for another less expensive choice, try one of these little speakers made by Amazon. Do try to keep it simple, with easy to manage on/off buttons. The easier to do, the more likely it will be used.
In any assisted living home, the aides will be happy to help them when needed. You can download a book for them, one at a time, or several so that they have choices.
When I think how much time my seniors are sitting and relaxing, I think they would love to listen to someone read to them. A life long pleasure that can continue even if their eyes are unable.
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