UK programme connects youth and elderly through the love of reading
Recommended for Preparatory Grades
A programme called Reading Friends in the UK connects young people who love to read with elderly people.
Don’t we all like reading together or discussing a good story? But can you imagine how hard it must be for elderly or old people who might be lonely and who cannot meet up with their friends?
Important Details
- These youngsters meet the elderly and they together read a story or a novel.
- This helps most when the elderly are unable to see well.
- The young volunteers read aloud to them and there begins a brand new friendship between the two.
- Reading Friends began in 2017 and has now spread to many parts of UK, such as Northern Ireland, Scotland, England and Wales.
- According to the Reading Friend’s organisation, around 8-10% of people above the age of 65 are often lonely and 12% of them feel socially isolated (left alone).
- Research also shows that reading together helps to connect better and reduces illnesses, such as dementia (forgetfulness).
Wrap Up
This is a great experience because the elderly feel happy about reading and hearing stories from the young. The young also learn from the elderly about their experiences and more.
We hope more volunteers spread the joy of reading among the elderly. You can also try this out on your own.
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Watch a video
Check out this heartwarming video when kids meet a 101-year-old lady. The video is shared by Youtube user “HiHo Kids”.
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