Reading for Seniors: How Books Enrich Life in Retirement Living Communities

Escaping into a good book can be magical at any age. As you get older, your preferences and interests may change. Still, reading is a pastime that can evolve with you and open the door to continued learning and new experiences.

Across Era Living retirement communities, there are many ways to enjoy reading and connect with others. While activities and services vary by community, residents may take part in book clubs, attend author talks, or relax in welcoming libraries. Together, these experiences create an environment where curiosity, conversation, and connection can thrive.

Era Living Residents’ Favorite Reads

One benefit of living in a retirement community is having people close by who can recommend interesting books! For this blog, we asked members of Era Living’s communities what they have been reading. Here are some of their favorite reads from 2025:

• • • Wild Swans by Jung Chang
    • Foster by Claire Keegan
    • James by Percival Everett
    • Horse by Geraldine Brooks
    • A Walk in the Park by Kevin Fedarko
    • The Measure by Nikki Erlick
    • The Demon of Unrest by Erik Larson

Each of these books offers a unique story and perspective that can inspire thought and conversation. Melissa W., a resident at Aljoya Mercer Island, found “The Measure” to be a standout. This award-nominated science-fiction story explores a deep philosophical question about fate, destiny, and a life-changing personal choice.

The Measure lends itself to a good discussion. It’s very different from any book you’ve probably read,” Melissa says.

Books that Bring People Together

Sharing thoughts and discussions about a book can be a great way to connect with others and inspire conversation. This is an important focus for William Stafford, who is the Library Coordinator at Aljoya Mercer Island.

William oversees the community’s library activities and helps to ensure that reading remains a shared and meaningful part of community life. Well-attended book club meetings offer a chance for residents to discuss their perspectives, build new friendships, and challenge their critical thinking skills. Aljoya Mercer Island also hosts author visits and has plans for two author talks in the coming months.

The library in a retirement community presents the past through history, the present through political science, and the future with science fiction. It promotes the exchange of ideas and good conversation,” William says.

Libraries as Community Spaces

There’s no doubt that libraries can be a gathering hub in senior living communities. With this in mind, Era Living’s Ida Culver House Broadview is happy to provide a newly refurbished library, creating a sanctuary for residents to read and enjoy different activities.

The library hosts several book clubs and groups with the help of a new audio system for the hearing impaired. It also houses the community’s vast, resident-donated book collection. There are so many books, in fact, that satellite libraries have been created on three sky bridges leading from living units to the central building, allowing even more access for resident book lovers.

Beyond the Page: Community and Connection

In addition to connecting book enthusiasts, reading can also connect the generations. This is happening at Aljoya Mercer Island, where residents are teaming up with fourth-grade pen pals through a special bookmark contest.

This contest invites students at Northwood Elementary School on Mercer Island to color a picture with an Aljoya theme. The winning entry is featured on a bookmark, delighting residents and celebrating the community’s up-and-coming artists.

Embracing Your Next Chapter

At Era Living, we’re excited to support a culture of lifelong learning, connection, and purpose — where residents can find engaging activities that bring joy to everyday life.

If you’re considering a Seattle retirement community, we invite you to consider Era Living’s eight communities in the Greater Seattle area. Our vibrant senior housing options include senior independent living, assisted living, and memory care.

Let us help you or your loved one get a vibrant start on your next chapter. Contact one of our retirement living experts to learn more.