Books linked to seniors’ independence
Research shows lower demand for residential aged care services in places with well-stocked libraries.
A recent Japanese study offers heartening news for book lovers and older adults alike: towns with more public library books tend to have fewer residents needing long-term nursing care.
Researchers followed over 73,000 older adults (ages 65 and up) from 19 towns and cities across Japan for more than seven years.
None of the participants needed nursing care at the start of the study. By the end, more than 16,000 had developed disabilities requiring assistance. But the researchers noticed a clear trend: people living in areas with richer library resources were less likely to end up needing that kind of help.
Towns with more libraries per capita saw fewer people developing functional disabilities.
Surprisingly, the benefits were seen even among people who didn’t read regularly. This suggests libraries may play a broader role in promoting health beyond just providing books.
Why might libraries have this effect? Experts believe it may come down to a few key factors. Libraries often encourage light physical activity, including walking to the library, browsing shelves, and attending events. They also stimulate the brain and provide social connections, both of which are known to protect against cognitive and physical decline.
“Libraries can serve as a hub for community activities, especially for older adults,” said Dr Naoki Kondo, one of the lead researchers. “Just being in an environment filled with learning opportunities can have a positive influence.”
The findings are particularly relevant as communities around the world grapple with ageing populations and limited caregiving resources. Simple, community-based solutions such as investing in libraries could help people stay healthy and independent for longer.
While this study took place in Japan, the message is universal: public libraries aren’t just about books, they’re about community, connection, and lifelong wellness.
So, the next time you visit your local library, you may be doing more than checking out a book; you may be checking in on your own well-being.
Related reading: The Mainichi
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