Gadgets for Seniors: the Amazon Kindle, a great way to help prevent Alzheimer's

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In a previous blog post we looked at the iPad, and how it can be used as a tool for seniors to communicate with their loved ones. Today we are going to examine another gadget that a senior might enjoy -- the Amazon Kindle.

The Amazon Kindle is an ebook reader from bookseller giant Amazon. Through wireless connectivity, 3G or Wifi where available, users can download on demand books, newspapers, or magazines. Most books available from Amazon's store can be purchased through the Kindle, and they are downloaded and available almost instantly.

Amazon also has a Kindle iPad app, which allows for the same functionality as a Kindle. For a senior considering purchasing an iPad, or for a family considering purchasing an iPad for a senior, this is a great value added feature.

For a senior with limited mobility this can be an enormous blessing. A Kindle replaces the need for trips to the library and bookstore as content can be simply downloaded on demand. A world of books are now available at the fingertips of a senior, and they can spend their time reading without the hassle of having to go or get someone to go for them to a bookstore or library.

While reading is a great activity to help pass the time, there are also numerous mental health benefits as well. A number of studies have shown that seniors who frequently read are at a lower risk of developing Alzheimer's. While frequently reading is not a vaccine for the disease, keeping one's mind engaged by reading is a proven way to help prevent the disease from developing.

According to Dr David M. Holtzman, MD, one of the lead researchers in a new Alzheimer's related study "Engaging the brain in tasks like reading, socializing or studying may be helpful because they reduce activity in susceptible regions and increase activity in regions that seem to be less vulnerable to Alzheimer's plaque deposition."

In addition to keeping the mind active, reading is also another great way to socialize. Book clubs can be built around specific book genres, and these clubs are a way to meet people with similar interests and tastes.

In conclusion, the Kindle is a great way for senior's to keep their mind active while reading. For seniors who have mobility issues it can be a huge blessing as brings a large selection of books to them, dramatically increasing the quality of their life.

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People & Blogs

Tags:

• Independent
• Living
• Assisted
• Kindle
• Alzheimer's
• Care