“I prefer reading short stories or magazines because they are easier to follow along. Once I’m done, I will have a conversation about it.” Steven Barbieri
Large font is important.
Larger line spacing makes it easier to follow along.
It is important for print to be black with white pages so words are easily read.
Reading flash fiction storylines are easy for me to follow.
Re-reading books can be enjoyable and easier to finish.
I use a highlighter to focus on important words.
I use a ruler to track the line I’m reading.
Find a simple young adult novel in the genre you prefer. I find the storylines easier to follow.
Cookbooks
“It is important for me to re-write directions to a recipe, so I am able to complete the instructions in a way that works best for me.” Monica Downer
If I’m needing a recipe, I’ll re-write it in a way I’ll remember.
Several of us have contributed to the cookbook, “Cooking Our Way: A Cookbook By and For People Living with Dementia.”
“I have to have adequate light. So if I’m reading from bed, I have to have a headlamp so the light is shining directly on what I’m reading.” – Libby Ford
I’ve found optimal lighting is important.
I have to have it very quiet while reading with no distractions.
Wearing headphones helps to drown out other noise.
I find a private space to read.
Forms
“Additional support with filling out forms is important to make sure all information is going in the correct spots.” - Mona Moore
Forms that indicate if the text should be entered above or below the line are the easiest ones for me to complete.
I have set up my computer with a voice-to-text program that I use to fill out forms.
Songbooks
“Large font is important for me while reading my songbook so I can continue to do what I love.” – Mark Roberts
My choir director is great. She copies the music in large print for me. Then I highlight important parts of the music.
Tips for Recall
“It is helpful when stories have a synopsis at the beginning of each chapter to help with remembering characters and main events.” – Mel Sebastiani
Writing down the most important parts of what I’ve read helps with recall.
I use Goodreads to review a synopsis of stories when I need help with recall.
Cliff notes help me with recall.
Writing down the characters helps me follow a longer book.
I find it helpful to talk to someone about what I’ve just read. It helps me remember.
Reading out loud helps me with recall.
Books Written by People Living with Dementia
Click here to view a list of books written by persons living with dementia.
