Whether you’re reading books on your own or as part of a dedicated club in your residential living community, there is no doubt that being a regular reader keeps your mind sharp as time passes. However, joining a book club opens you or your loved ones up to even more benefits for your mental and emotional health thanks to its group setting. Here are three of the main benefits that can show you just why you should join a book club.
Keeping Minds Sharp
Plenty of research has found that reading can maintain and even greatly improve brain function. This is because our brains are fully engaged whenever we read, process new information as well as learn to empathize with the new cultures, perspectives, and people we read about each day. The more you read, the more adept your brain will be when it comes to juggling new pieces of information. This keeps your brain sharp for many more years to come, which can help stave off symptoms of illnesses like Alzheimer’s and dementia.
In addition, discussing what you read with members of your book club provides another layer of depth and meaning to your reading material; you will have the opportunity to consider the alternative perspectives and viewpoints that your friends might have about the same book. As such, reading is truly a great activity for individuals who wish to stay up to date with current affairs or learn more about our wide and wonderful world.
Making New Friends
When you decide to join your local book club, you will have a great opportunity to socialize and make new friends all united by a common love of books and reading. As the days pass, you’ll be sure to have a great time whenever your book clubs meet, as you spend hours bonding with like-minded friends over your latest book of choice. You can discuss your opinions together in a relaxed and judgment-free setting, so you’re safe to share your honest thoughts about what you’ve all read. Since there are no “wrong” ideas in a book club, you and your friends will be empowered with a sense of freedom and creativity – what better foundation to build a new friendship on?
Discovering New Hobbies
Even if you weren’t previously an avid reader, a great book club will quickly change your mind about reading and books! Starting your new lifelong reading habit might be a little challenging at first, but before long, you’ll be engrossed in the latest reads, picking apart stories and themes with your close-knit group of equally enthusiastic friends. No matter how far along you are in life, it’s never too late to pick up a new hobby and source of entertainment – why not let it be reading?
No matter your reasons for joining your local book club, there’s no doubt that it’s one of the most entertaining yet enriching activities you could spend your retirement doing. So, what are you waiting for? Go on out and join a book club today!
