Reading: A Nonpharmacological Intervention for Dementia?

Abstract: Should reading be added as a nonpharmacological intervention for dementia alongside other interventions such as music and art therapy? This article attempts to compile articles from both scholarly research and the popular press to enable readers to explore this question further. While those living with dementia may be reading in a different way and for different purposes than before diagnosis, research shows that there are still valuable and important benefits from offering literacy opportunities to this population. Successful book and reading programs from around the globe are identified, and library applications are discussed. The need for further research is evaluated.