Benefits of Libraries for Seniors in McKinney, TX and Surrounding Areas
It can be difficult to find places in McKinney, Allen, Frisco, Prosper and surrounding communities in Collin County, TX that offer something that adults over the age of 65 can enjoy. There's a lot to consider when thinking about senior-friendly activities. Many seniors deal with age-related issues that impact their mobility and cognition, making a lot of high-intensity activities difficult for them to enjoy. In addition, many seniors live with a chronic, long-term health condition that can impact their vision, hearing and other senses, so finding an easily accessible activity is necessary.
If you're looking for something in your elderly loved one's community that they can enjoy, consider taking them to the library.
Libraries have so much to offer for seniors. For those who enjoy learning, libraries offer a variety of ways to take in new information. For those looking for social interaction, many libraries have events and clubs that are always looking for new members. Since libraries offer so many enjoyable opportunities for older adults, it's no wonder that about 50 percent of seniors report that they go to their local library at least once a week!
Why Seniors in McKinney and Surrounding Areas Should Visit Their Local Library
Affordable and Accessible Ways to Read
Many seniors enjoy a good book, and the library is a perfect place to find both old favorites and new, interesting stories. And since checking out books at the library doesn't cost anything, it's an enjoyable, budget-friendly activity for seniors, especially those on a fixed income.
But many libraries have more than just books, which can be beneficial for seniors with disabilities. For example, if your loved one has low vision due to age-related issues or a health condition, libraries often have large-print books that are easier to read compared to standard-print books, as well as audio books and books on CD.
In addition, if your loved one has mobility-related issues and struggles with going out to their favorite places or is unable to drive themselves, their local library may offer a book delivery and pick-up service. For example, both the Roy & Helen Hall Library and the John & Judy Gay Library in McKinney offer curbside pick-up, allowing seniors to get any materials they check out through the catalog without having to leave their vehicle. Your loved one can request specific titles or ask the librarian for recommendations based on their personal preferences. This service can be the perfect solution for housebound seniors who love to read but may not always be able to get to the library every day.
Access to Information
Libraries also offer a variety of ways to access information about the outside world. Obviously, libraries are home to a variety of reference materials, like dictionaries, encyclopedias and almanacs. But libraries can also carry the latest issues of magazines, the local paper and so much more.
In addition, libraries provide access to computer labs and the Internet, where seniors can further access information about their community or the world around them. Seniors can also gain access to printers and scanners if they need to obtain and submit important paperwork. Best of all, these services are usually free of charge or offered at a very small cost.
Opportunities for Socialization
Since many age-related issues can make it difficult for seniors to venture out and spend quality time with friends and family, we often worry about our loved ones' opportunities for social interaction. Fortunately, libraries can offer a variety of solutions for seniors who might feel isolated as they age in place at home.
Because many libraries are equipped with computer labs and Internet access, your loved one can spend their library time checking their email or using social media. If the library has Wi-Fi access, your loved one can also use their smartphone to text or FaceTime those they care about.
In addition, many libraries offer workshops and classes for people to learn new information and socialize with one another. For example, seniors in and near McKinney can participate in book clubs for contemporary literature, classics and true crime. In addition, the Frisco Public Library offers movement classes, writer’s workshops and opportunities for seniors who speak English as a second language to improve their language skills, while the Allen Public Library offers opportunities for seniors who enjoy knitting and other crafts, seniors who want to know how to create terrariums and seniors who want to learn more about history and other countries.
These classes can serve as a great opportunity for seniors who normally spend their time at home to interact and engage with members of their local community while learning something new or enjoying their favorite hobbies.
How Home Care from Visiting Angels McKinney Can Help Seniors Spend Time at the Library
At Visiting Angels McKinney, our goal is to not only help seniors in Collin County age in place, but to make aging in place a positive, enjoyable experience. If your loved one enjoys going to the library as part of their everyday routine, our caregivers can help them maintain their routine despite age-related issues.
As part of our home care services, our caregivers can:
- Remind your loved one when any books they've checked out are due back
- Help return books to the library
- And so much more
To learn more about in-home care from Visiting Angels, call our McKinney, TX office at 214-491-1999 today to schedule a free in-home consultation!