As people grow older, their perceptions, belief systems, and interests often evolve. These changes can make rereading a favorite old book an entirely new experience. Tucson home care experts discuss 4 classic works aging adults may want to revisit in the golden years.
1. Animal Farm
For many young readers, George Orwell’s Animal Farm might seem like little more than a bunch of talking animals living in a society with strict rules. For adults, this satirical work makes more sense and becomes more thought provoking and engaging. Elderly readers can use their considerable life experience to make comparisons between this book and the changes they’ve seen over the decades in the real world.
2. The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe
The first book in C.S. Lewis’ famous series is a fantastic tale that never loses its intrigue. From fauns and talking lions to trees that hold loyalties and secrets, this work is perfect for readers of every age. Seniors will find this book and the others in this series to be the perfect form of escapism, no matter how many times they’ve read them, and they will also appreciate the complexity of this book’s portrayal of good versus evil.
3. A Wrinkle in Time
This first major work by Madeline L’Engle is rumored to contain scientific facts and theories that are so spot-on, NASA once used it as part of its training program for new astronauts. Despite the complexities of the included physics, this book is equally suited to 10-year-old children and adults over 65. Aging adults can curl up and read about the exploits of young Charles Wallace, his sister Meg, and the interdimensional journey to find their father that takes them through both space and time. Some of the concepts of this book may have been difficult to understand from a child’s point of view, but seniors will have the life experience to appreciate its themes.
4. The Great Gatsby
Every senior should reread F. Scott Fitzgerald’s classic novel. Not only is it exciting, engaging, and full of surprises, but it’s also rich with complex characters. Aging adults will truly appreciate the protagonist’s kind heart, gentle spirit, and unending dedication to friendship, and they will also have a better understanding of the opportunistic and self-centered nature of the characters surrounding Jay Gatsby.
Books are just one way seniors can get the regular mental stimulation they need to keep their brains healthy. If your elderly loved one needs additional brain-boosting activities in his or her life, reach out to Home Care Assistance. We are a leading provider of Alzheimer’s and dementia care Tucson, AZ, families trust, and we also offer comprehensive Parkinson’s and post-stroke care. For more information and to schedule a free in-home consultation, call one of our friendly Care Managers at (520) 276-6555 today.