Reading Activities for Nursing Home Residents: Celebrating Get Caught Reading Month
May is Get Caught Reading Month—a national initiative that encourages people of all ages to rediscover the simple joy of reading. At The Neighbors of Dunn County, we believe reading is more than just a pastime. It’s a meaningful way to support cognitive health, spark conversation, and bring comfort and creativity to everyday life.
Whether your loved one is an avid reader or someone who enjoys listening to stories, reading offers proven benefits—and we’re proud to offer a variety of reading activities for nursing home residents that support mental, emotional, and social well-being.
Why Reading Still Matters—At Every Stage Of Life
For older adults, especially those in long-term care, reading can be a powerful source of connection, mental stimulation, and relaxation. According to Healthline the benefits of regular reading include:
- Improved brain function and memory retention
- Enhanced vocabulary and comprehension
- Reduced stress and better sleep
- Increased empathy and emotional insight
- Strengthened focus and attention span
- Reduced cognitive decline
- Boosted creativity and imagination
These outcomes are especially meaningful for older adults adjusting to a new phase of life in a care setting. At The Neighbors of Dunn County, we recognize that reading is more than entertainment—it’s part of what helps residents feel curious, connected, and confident.
Ways To Read At The Neighbors Of Dunn County
One of the reasons we’re known for offering thoughtful, resident-centered care is because we create space for personal enrichment. That includes making reading accessible in a wide variety of ways—no matter one’s mobility or cognitive needs.
Here are several ways residents at The Neighbors can enjoy reading throughout the month of May—and all year long:
- Books from in-house household dens – Each neighborhood has cozy common spaces stocked with books residents can enjoy at their leisure.
- The Resident Library – Located in the Central (Yellow) Building, this shared library offers a quiet space and a rotating collection of books.
- Audiobooks from the Wisconsin Talking Book & Braille Library – For residents with visual impairments or limited dexterity, audiobooks provide an engaging and accessible alternative.
- Books from the Menomonie Public Library – Through ongoing collaboration, residents have access to a broader collection of reading material from the local library.
- Daily newspaper delivery – Newspapers are delivered each morning to all households, keeping residents informed and connected to current events.
- Magazines offered through activity staff – Popular magazine titles are available during group activities or one-on-one engagement.
- Personal devices – Residents are welcome to use Kindles, tablets, or other e-readers to access digital books and online articles.
Whether it’s flipping through a paperback, listening to a story, or catching up on the day’s headlines, our residents have the tools they need to enjoy reading in whatever way feels most comfortable.
Annual Book Sale: April 28 – May 9
In honor of Get Caught Reading Month, we’re also hosting our Annual Book Sale from April 28 through May 9. Located in the Central Building, this 24/7 self-serve sale is open to all, with books available for just $0.50 each.
- Lobby Door Access: Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM
- Evening/Weekend Access: Please use the Deerview or Fireside entrances
- Questions? Contact Alyssa Stelter at astelter@co.dunn.wi.us
Proceeds help fund cost-free resident engagement in the community—another way reading supports connection and quality of life at The Neighbors of Dunn County.
A Community Of Support
If you’re exploring options for a parent, spouse, or loved one, it’s important to look beyond clinical care. Engaging programs—like our variety of reading activities for nursing home residents—offer a deeper layer of support that promotes dignity, purpose, and fulfillment.
At The Neighbors of Dunn County, we’re proud to offer a care environment that honors the whole person: mind, body, and spirit.
Contact us today to schedule a tour or speak with a member of our team.
Read More From The Neighbors Of Dunn County
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