Why the National Year of Reading Matters for Dementia and Cognitive Health

In 2026, the UK will mark a National Year of Reading, a significant initiative led by the Department for Education and the National Literacy Trust. The campaign responds to growing evidence of a decline in reading enjoyment, and aims to reignite a national love of reading.

While the primary focus is understandably on younger generations, the themes of this campaign extend far beyond childhood. Reading is a lifelong activity, and its benefits continue well into adulthood and later life, intersecting with wider conversations around wellbeing, cognitive health and dementia friendly approaches.

Reading as a Lifelong Skill and Pleasure

For adults, reading plays an important role not only in literacy, but in emotional wellbeing, lifelong learning and social connection. Reading for pleasure has been linked to reduced stress, improved concentration and greater empathy, offering a simple yet powerful way to support mental wellbeing at any age.

In later life, reading can also form part of a mentally stimulating lifestyle. Activities that engage the brain, such as reading, puzzles and meaningful conversation, are widely recognised as beneficial for maintaining cognitive function. While no single activity can prevent cognitive decline, reading can help keep the mind active and engaged, particularly when it remains enjoyable rather than task focused.

Reading and Dementia Friendly Practice

The National Year of Reading also aligns with dementia friendly principles. Reading does not need to follow traditional formats to be valuable. Shared reading, reading aloud, audio books, looking at illustrated books, magazines or newspapers, and revisiting familiar stories can all support communication and connection.

For people living with dementia, reading can help stimulate memory, support language skills and reinforce a sense of identity. Familiar texts may evoke memories, emotions and conversation, offering moments of recognition and comfort. Importantly, reading in this context is about shared experience, not accuracy or achievement.

Stories as a Way to Connect

Stories have always been central to how people connect with one another. Reading together can encourage conversation, reminiscence and reflection, strengthening relationships between individuals, families and those supporting them.

In later life, when opportunities for social interaction may reduce, reading can offer structure, enjoyment and a sense of continuity. Joining a reading group or book club can increase social connections and support wellbeing.

Reading as a Wellbeing Activity

The National Year of Reading 2026 offers an opportunity to think more broadly about reading across the life course. It invites professionals, families and organisations to consider how reading can be supported not just in education, but in adult life, ageing and dementia friendly environments.

By viewing reading as a wellbeing activity rather than a purely educational one, we can help ensure that people of all ages continue to benefit from the joy, stimulation and connection that reading can bring.

Further Resources

If you want to explore more dementia-friendly reading materials and guidance, these organisations are excellent places to start:

• Cognitive Books – Specialist books for adults with cognitive challenges, including dementia: https://www.cognitivebooks.co.uk/

• Reading Well for Dementia – Part of The Reading Agency’s programmes, offering book lists to support people living with dementia and their supporters: https://readingagency.org.uk/get-reading/our-programmes-and-campaigns/reading-well/reading-well-for-dementia/