How Libraries Enrich The Lives Of Nursing Home Residents

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What do you think of when I mention library services at a nursing home? You probably picture someone going up and down the halls with a cartload of books that residents can check out. While this is a tremendous service, it’s only the tip of the iceberg when it comes to library resources that benefit our residents.

Book Delivery

Of course, the most popular library service involves residents requesting specific books and having them delivered right to their rooms. Residents can also check out books and magazines online for use with e-readers.

In addition, you can let the library know about the interests of individual residents. The librarians will then make book recommendations for each person.

Some libraries stock mini-libraries in nursing homes, rotating books every month. They can also provide multiple copies of a book if your residents are interested in developing a book discussion group.

Adaptive books and equipment

Libraries are a popular source for large print books as well as audiobooks. Also, if you let the librarian know about the special needs of a resident, they might loan out adaptive equipment.

This includes such things as captioned videos, magnifiers, or devices for someone who has difficulty holding a book.

Classes

Libraries offer an enormous variety of classes that become fun outings for your residents. As an example, these are some of the classes offered at our local libraries this month: calligraphy, genealogy, crocheting, greeting card creation, and journaling.

In many areas, a resident’s library card grants free access to online classes. Two examples are Lynda.com and Creativebug.

Questions

Years ago, when someone had a question, it wasn’t unusual to call the librarian, and she (nearly all were women) would research the topic and call you back. With today’s easy access to online information, this might seem strange.

However, if a resident has a burning question and can’t find the answer, try contacting a library. They might find the answer or point you to the best resources. Nowadays, librarians are available by phone, email, online chat, or text message.

Activities

Some libraries offer adult activity bags that you can check out. Memory Minders and Bi-Folkal Kits are just two examples.

A library is also a terrific place to find big, colorful coffee table type books to use during group discussions. In addition, you’ll find DVDs for all sorts of activities like chair yoga, armchair travel, and religious programs.

Meeting Spaces

Sometimes it’s nice to get away from the nursing home for a while. Most libraries offer meeting rooms free of charge. You can bring a group of residents there for a special activity or a support group.

Guest Speakers

Many libraries provide speakers you can call upon to come out to your nursing home. They’ll talk about all sorts of subjects. A few of the most common ones are local history, art, travel, animals, and genealogy research.

Some libraries provide volunteers to lead book discussion groups. Others send out volunteers who will read to residents living with dementia.

Discounts

What many people don’t know is that libraries often provide access to discounts and free passes to community events. This could include museums, concerts, zoos, and sporting events. Our local library offers this service, and I wasn’t aware of it until a few months ago!

What did I miss? Please share other ways libraries serve your residents.