Title: How to Cultivate a Love of Reading in Midlife and Beyond?
Speaker: Ms Lee Li Li, Clinical Psychologist
Date: 27.05.2025 (Tuesday)
Why Should We Still Read?
“I already have a rich and fulfilling life—morning walks in the park, tai chi, yoga, painting, watching dramas... why should I still read books?”
Indeed, these activities are beneficial for both body and mind. However, reading offers a deeper level of stimulation for the brain and is one of the most effective ways to prevent cognitive decline. It activates neural connections, enhances emotional regulation, strengthens language expression, and provides valuable mental training. Reading is a high-quality, brain-protective activity that helps slow down brain atrophy.
Fostering a Love for Reading
1. Choose the Right Books
For example, a reading group once chose a book about health and nutrition. They decided to host the session in a kitchen. While one experienced member mixed batter and put it into the oven, others arrived and curiously asked, “What are you making?” The casual chat around cooking created a warm, relaxed atmosphere before the reading session. While waiting for the food to bake, the group sat down to enjoy 30–60 minutes of shared reading. Other ideas include organizing picnic-style reading gatherings, where everyone brings a homemade dish or drink, gathers in the park, enjoys food, and reads together. In laughter and conversation, knowledge and emotion flow freely.
2. Create a Comfortable Reading Environment
3. Encourage Social Engagement Through Reading
4. Set Goals and Reward Progress
5. Connect Reading to Real Life
6. Offer Diverse Reading Formats
7. Offer Encouragement and Support
Speaker: Ms Lee Li Li, Clinical Psychologist
Date: 27.05.2025 (Tuesday)
Why Should We Still Read?
“I already have a rich and fulfilling life—morning walks in the park, tai chi, yoga, painting, watching dramas... why should I still read books?”
Indeed, these activities are beneficial for both body and mind. However, reading offers a deeper level of stimulation for the brain and is one of the most effective ways to prevent cognitive decline. It activates neural connections, enhances emotional regulation, strengthens language expression, and provides valuable mental training. Reading is a high-quality, brain-protective activity that helps slow down brain atrophy.
Fostering a Love for Reading
1. Choose the Right Books
- Pick based on interest: Understand the preferences of middle-aged and older adults—topics like history, travel, literature, psychology, or wellness tend to resonate deeply and feel relatable.
- Mix classics and bestsellers: Suggest a blend of well-regarded classics and easy-to-read, popular titles to spark curiosity.
- Use simple, accessible language: Avoid books that are too complex or use difficult vocabulary. Instead, prioritise clear storytelling and engaging, easy-to-understand content.
For example, a reading group once chose a book about health and nutrition. They decided to host the session in a kitchen. While one experienced member mixed batter and put it into the oven, others arrived and curiously asked, “What are you making?” The casual chat around cooking created a warm, relaxed atmosphere before the reading session. While waiting for the food to bake, the group sat down to enjoy 30–60 minutes of shared reading. Other ideas include organizing picnic-style reading gatherings, where everyone brings a homemade dish or drink, gathers in the park, enjoys food, and reads together. In laughter and conversation, knowledge and emotion flow freely.
2. Create a Comfortable Reading Environment
- Design a cosy reading space: Good lighting, fresh air, and comfortable seating help improve focus.
- Minimise distractions: Reduce noise or interruptions to support immersive solo reading.
- Read solo or together?: You can read alone and share reflections later or read and discuss with others—both formats are enjoyable in different ways.
3. Encourage Social Engagement Through Reading
- Start a book club: Invite people to share their reading thoughts and engage in meaningful discussions. Differences in opinion are welcome; a facilitator can gently guide the conversation and keep the atmosphere friendly.
- Family reading time: Reading together as a family strengthens bonds and ignites a shared enthusiasm for books.
4. Set Goals and Reward Progress
- Make realistic plans: For example, read 10 pages a week or 30 minutes a day. Start small and build a sense of achievement.
- Create a reward system: Celebrate milestones—like finishing a book—with a meal out or a small gift to maintain motivation.
5. Connect Reading to Real Life
- Choose books that resonate with experience: Stories related to one’s personal history enhance emotional connection. For instance, reading historical accounts can deepen appreciation for peace.
- Apply knowledge from reading: When books offer practical value, such as nutrition tips or wellness strategies, it boosts both enthusiasm and real-life usefulness.
6. Offer Diverse Reading Formats
- Audiobooks and e-books: For those with poor vision, audiobooks or large-font e-books are user-friendly alternatives.
- Related videos and films: Watch movies or documentaries based on books to spark interest before reading the original.
- Role-play activities: Use puppets, masks, or props to act out scenes and add energy and fun to book discussions.
- Reading while travelling: Bring along local literature during trips to explore culture and enrich your travel experience.
7. Offer Encouragement and Support
- Track progress and listen actively: Show genuine interest in their reading journey. Listen to their opinions and affirm their efforts.
- Read together: Family or friends can join in reading time. A simple story chat can make reading moments warmer and more meaningful. Even encouraging a few words of sharing is a powerful form of support.
