Elderly woman

Being able to pick up and read a good book is a favorite activity of many adults, but it gets more challenging as adults age. If you have a senior on your holiday gift list who loves to read, you may want to consider the gift of audiobooks. They’re the perfect gift for many older adults, especially those in hospice care or those receiving home health services, for many reasons we will discuss in this article. 

Audiobooks: The Gift The Senior in Your Life Will Enjoy and Use

An audiobook is a voice recording of a book. As the name implies, audiobooks are listened to rather than read. If you’re considering gifting an audiobook, you’ll be surprised to know that there are many ways for your loved ones to enjoy an audiobook. 

Purchase audiobooks through a device 

Seniors can easily enjoy audiobooks on a desktop, laptop, smartphone, smartwatch, or tablet. Specific apps, such as Apple Books and Google Play Books allow users to purchase, download, or stream audiobooks on these devices. Users can easily and quickly download apps from the app store, and individual audiobooks can be purchased through these apps. If your loved one is familiar with smart devices and apps, this could be an excellent option for them.

Audiobook subscriptions

Gifting an audiobook subscription service is also a great idea because they give your loved one access to thousands of audiobooks. Generally speaking, these subscription services, such as Audible, allow access to a catalog of audiobooks from which they can purchase their own. Because there are many audiobook subscription services, you’ll be able to find one that best fits the needs of your loved one. 

Audiobook players

Many seniors prefer an audiobook device that is easy to navigate, easy to understand, and has a menu that is easy to read. MP3 players designed specifically for disabled people can easily stream audiobooks, allowing your loved one to access their favorite books easily. One such device is the Victor Reader Stream, a handheld audio player that allows your loved one to have easy access to their favorite audiobooks.

The Many Benefits of Audiobooks

Eliminates the need for large-print text

For seniors who struggle with their eyesight, audiobooks are a great alternative to reading. Instead of straining their eyes trying to read large or small text, they can sit back, relax, and enjoy a good book. There’s no physical challenge with audiobooks, and your loved one will not experience eyestrain when listening to one.  

Improves cognitive function

It’s common for seniors to worry about cognitive decline and memory loss. Audiobooks have been shown to stimulate the mind in a variety of ways. Listeners can immerse themselves in the story, allowing them to use their imagination. Reading and listening skills and emotional development also greatly benefit from audiobooks. Just like reading a physical book, listening to audiobooks helps your loved one keep learning as they age. 

Provides companionship

It’s common for seniors to spend time alone, leaving them prone to loneliness and isolation. This is especially true for those on home health and hospice services who experience limited mobility. When listening to an audiobook, listeners have the feeling of companionship. In fact, just the sound of hearing a human voice helps them feel less alone. Listeners can experience various emotions in just one audiobook and are transported into a different world in the process.

Allows your loved one to multitask

Seniors who prefer to stay busy around the house find that they love listening to audiobooks while they complete tasks, such as knitting, laundry, or other household chores. Having an audiobook play in the background while they’re getting things done around the house helps to bring comfort and entertainment. 

Brings joy to their day

It’s not uncommon for audiobook lovers to look forward to the time of day when they can settle in and listen to a good book. Seniors who live in hospice, nursing homes, or assisted daily living can get together with their friends to share the book. Listening to audiobooks in this setting invites more socialization and joy into their day. 

Makes for an affordable, easy gift 

If your loved one has always enjoyed reading, audiobooks are a foolproof way to give them a holiday gift they will love. As the years go on, you can give them different titles or perhaps try an audiobook subscription. It’ll become a go-to gift you can provide throughout the years. And they’re incredibly affordable, too. 

Offers an alternative to holding a book

Adults with arthritis or other health issues can struggle to hold a book for prolonged periods of time. For some who are in hospice care and are bedridden, just the act of grabbing a book is a challenge. Audiobooks allow seniors to enjoy listening to their favorite stories without the challenge of holding a book, focusing on small print, or turning pages. 

For More Ideas or Support for Your Senior Loved One, Contact Us

We’ve seen firsthand that for those in hospice, and those receiving home health services, audiobooks are a wonderful and affordable gift for avid readers. 

If your loved one would benefit from companionship, assistance with daily tasks, or is in need of more substantial medical care, we encourage you to contact us about our variety of hospice care and home health services. 
Our caring, skilled, and compassionate team gives your loved one the respect and attention they deserve while providing help with assisted daily living skills and much more. For a free consultation on our services, contact us today.