The Joy Of Audiobooks
Reading is one of life's greatest pleasures, but age-related challenges often prevent older adults from enjoying this hobby. One simple, yet significant, solution to keep the many benefits of books alive in your life is Audiobooks. And, as it turns out, the benefits go far beyond entertainment.
Why Audiobooks and Older Adults are a Great Match
From visual impairment to arthritis, several different health conditions can impede the ease of just "picking up a book" most people take for granted. Unfortunately, this not only interferes with the continuation of a lifelong interest but occurs at a vulnerable time in life when many seniors could use the "escape."
Audiobooks can be an invaluable resource for seniors looking for comfort or a sense of connection with the world around them. Getting lost in a good book can be a distraction from pain, boredom, loneliness and many of the other issues faced by older adults today. Reading has even been linked with alleviating depression! It can also be a form of cognitive stimulation and a delightful way to "see the world" when other options may no longer be possible. And the best part? Doing so is as simple as pressing a button!
Getting Started with Audiobooks
Audiobooks can be played on CD players (which can be purchased from as little as $28 from Kmart), smart phones, tablets or computers. Audible is a popular online source comprising more than 180,000 audio titles across a comprehensive range of genres, from classics and comedies to biographies and business.
Seniors on limited budgets can also get in on the audiobook action through the local library. While selection is limited, depending on demand at your local supported library, the cost is free to people with library cards.
One thing to keep in mind: adapting to modern technology, can be overwhelming or intimidating when first introduced. Ask for help if you are finding it difficult to purchase and download content. It’s worth it for the benefits of taking a vacation via audiobook. Whether you set aside time every day to relax with a favourite novel or you listen while going about your daily chores, audiobooks can help lighten the load by helping the hours pass by more quickly.
How To Access Audiobooks
Audible can be accessed through www.audible.com.au or through the audible app on your smart phone or tablet. You can try the service for free for 30 days and get a free audiobook that's yours to own, and if you like the service, stick with it for $16.45/month, cancel anytime. From there, you get a discount off the retail price of any books you enjoy, a free book every month.
If you are physically unable to visit the library, consider OverDrive – www.overdrive.com. Over 30,000 libraries use OverDrive to make it easy to check out audiobooks and ebooks directly from your smartphone or tablet — all you need is your library card, and a library in your community that supports the service (a large number of libraries in Australia are members). From there, just install the app on your smartphone, tablet or desktop computer. When you've finished, your books are automatically "checked in" to the library (or removed from your collection.) Overdrive is completely free, if you have a library card.