Stories for Older Adults

Reading aloud is a preserved ability in dementia and many individuals, even those in the later stage of the disease, enjoy reading to others.

— Jennifer Brush, M.A., CCC/SLP

For more on reading and dementia see our blog post:
A Meaningful Read-Aloud Experience for Older Adults with Dementia

These short, illustrated stories feature large-print text and full-page, high-contrast color illustrations to accommodate the reading needs of people living with dementia and other cognitive impairment. A large-print question is presented at the end of each page of text to encourage conversation and interaction.

Soft cover, durable #80 paper
Dimensions: 8.5 x 11; 12 pages of text (verso); 12 pages of illustration (recto)

Story Extensions are companion activities to our Stories for Older Adults. These three-part card sets are designed to highlight a different visual perspective on the story, adding new points of interest to engage the reader and extend the conversation.

Three-part card extensions can also be used independently as part of a reading therapy “toolkit” for memory care communities.

Stories for Older Adults are written in collaboration with Jennifer Brush, M.A., CCC/SLP, an award winning Dementia Educator, author and consultant. Passionate about enriching the lives of people with dementia, Jennifer is on a mission to put the focus of care on the person’s preferences, interests and abilities. She serves on the Association Montessori International Advisory Board for Montessori for Aging and Dementia and is presently the only person in the U.S. teaching this international program. Learn more about her revolutionary work at www.brushdevelopment.com.

Stories Companion Activities/Three-part Cards Show All

A Day on the Wind Seeker

Emma has dreamed of sailing since her childhood. She and her grandfather, Papa Jack, worked hard to restore an old sloop. Now the day has come for a first sail. Will Emma be ready to sail the Wind Seeker?

A Sidewalk Garden

Everyone in the neighborhood has noticed that something is different. Flowers are growing everywhere – even under the city’s “No Planting” sign. But who is planting the seeds? This is the delightful story of a grandmother who loves “the good Earth,” the gardening wisdom she shares with her granddaughter, and the comical antics of her pet dog.

Adventure in a Hot-Air Balloon

“Cookie was always in search of adventure, and Doug was always by her side.” Their latest adventure finds the two sharing an exciting ride aboard a hot-air balloon. Daring moments, a little romance, and a surprise encounter make this a memorable ride.

Meadow Wildflowers

Large-print three-part cards with bold, full-color illustrations of 6 meadow wildflowers. Non-glare lamination for easy viewing.

Garden Vegetables

Large-print three-part cards with bold, full-color illustrations of 10 garden vegetables. Non-glare lamination for easy viewing.

Woodworking Tools

Large-print three-part cards with bold, full-color illustrations of 8 woodworking tools. Non-glare lamination for easy viewing.

Shore and Water Birds

Large-print three-part cards with bold, full-color illustrations of 6 shore and water birds. Non-glare lamination for easy viewing.

Around The Farm

Large-print three-part cards with bold, full-color illustrations of animals, buildings and equipment around the farm. Non-glare lamination for easy viewing.

Backyard Birds

Large-print three-part cards with bold, full-color illustrations of 6 backyard birds. Non-glare lamination for easy viewing.

Classic Cars

Large-print, three-part cards with bold, full-color illustrations of 8 Classic cars from the 50’s and 60’s. Non-glare lamination for easy viewing.

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Suggested Uses

Small group read alouds
A person with dementia can read the story to a small group of peers and present the question at the end of each page for group discussion.
One-on-one reading & conversation
A family member or care partner can read the story aloud to a person with dementia and use the questions to reminisce or inspire discussion.
Intergenerational reading
The stories follow an intergenerational theme to interest both older adults and children. A person with dementia can read to a child or with a child and experience the positive effects of interaction with children.
Independent reading
A person with dementia can read the story alone, either silently or aloud. Most enjoy reading aloud.

Browse our Catalogs

Stories of the Earth

The Peaceable Farm

Fallen Tree Wooden Trays