The National Education Association launched its Read Across America program in 1998, centering celebrations on March 2 (Dr. Seuss’s birthday) and extending the literacy promotion throughout the month as National Reading Month, with the goal of motivating children to read.
While reading is often thought of as a “school” issue, folks of all ages are encouraged to read regularly. In fact, reading is linked with several positive outcomes for older adults, including enhanced memory retention, sharper decision-making skills, stress reduction, better sleep, and even the delayed onset of Alzheimer’s and dementia. Not to mention the fact that it’s pleasurable, too!
This is a great opportunity to explore new genres, pick up an old favorite book, or just spend some quality time with your favorite characters. Not only is reading beneficial for our mental health, but it can also help us become better informed about the world around us. So, let’s dust off those bookshelves and dive into a good book this month.
If you like discussing what you have read with others and hearing their “take” on the book, you may want to consider signing up for Poolesville Seniors Book Club – register at PS! Book Club. The virtual meetings usually are on the third Monday of the month. The group is welcoming, friendly, and you can attend without leaving home.
Celebrate Reading Month:
- Volunteer to read in a classroom.
- Read to a child or an elderly person.
- Read a book you’ve been meaning to get to.
- Attend a book reading.
- Read a book that is outside your comfort zone.
- Reread a favorite book.
- Share your favorite books with others.
Sit back, relax, and enjoy a good book!