How to Host a Book Club for Seniors
Seniors who live in assisted living facilities can be at risk for intellectual atrophy. Engaging their minds through reading is one sure-fire way to reawaken an interest in the world around them. That's where book clubs come in. These groups provide a place to discuss ideas and exchange opinions as well as generate enthusiasm for reading as an enjoyable pastime.Here are some ideas to organize a book club for seniors. Does this Spark an idea?
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Instructions
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How to Organize a Book Club for Seniors
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Hold a pre-meeting before the start of the book club to decide if one person will act as a host, or if the group will take turns.Also discuss what type of book the group will focus on reading - classic literature, detective novels, popular fiction, etc. Seniors may enjoy discussing history, authors who research and write about pre-and post-World War II, and art, culture and politics relating to mid-century Americana, for instance.
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Many books now come with reading guides to facilitate discussion. When the book selection is made, the host can provide the group with the name of local bookstores or online resources to buy the book. The host is also responsible for initiating discussion on the book, ensuring that everyone who wants to is able to contribute, and keeping the tone of the club congenial.
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Plan to meet once a month for 1-1/2 hours to allow everyone time to read the selection beforehand. Limit the number attending to no more than twelve so that everyone can share in the discussion.
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It's a good idea to have snacks (cheese and crackers, dessert and soft drinks) on hand, but limit alcohol or the club may turn into a cocktail hour instead of a discussion group
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If a particular selection turns out to be a favorite, consider reading other books by the same author.If the book being discussed is also a movie, the group can plan an outing to see the movie or rent the DVD to watch for a movie night.
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Tips & Warnings
Assisted living facilities are always seeking volunteers. Hosting a book club would be a wonderful way to give back to the community and enjoy reading a good book at the same time.
