"She Can't Read"
Are You Sure?
We hear it all the time:
“My mother is too confused to read.”
"He used to love books…but not anymore."
"I hand her a newspaper; she just stares at it."
It’s heartbreaking. Reading once served as a source of comfort for so many. It often forms a part of a person's identity and is a great source of joy.
Here’s what 30+ years of research and real-world experience show: Many people living with dementia can still read. We’ve just used the wrong tools. The purpose of traditional books and newspapers has not been to change cognition.
When text appears crowded, sentences feel long, and readers need to remember names or details from one page to the next, reading can quickly shift from something enjoyable to something exhausting.
CONNECT's Reading Materials restore the joy of reading for people living with dementia through clinically proven design and formatting, a memory-friendly writing style, and thoughtfully developed techniques that help readers succeed.
NOTE: When you click the button, the booklet will download as a PDF or open in your browser
What is the CONNECT Reading Library?
The CONNECT Reading Library is a collection of digital books designed to support meaningful engagement, reduce social isolation, & enhance quality of life. The subscription package includes two types of curated materials: Viva Stories (ideal for individuals in the middle stages of dementia) and Insight Articles (ideal for persons who are in the earlier stages of cognitive change). All of the stories are available in digital format or as downloadable PDFs.
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Subscriptions Include
✔ Over 500 stories with built-in discussion questions
✔ New content added monthly
✔ Quick Start tutorials
✔ FREE samples of 40 other CONNECT activities
How Can You Use It?​
✔ View digitally on a tablet, computer, or TV
✔ Great for groups or one-on-one
✔ Perfect for use at home or in a community
Insight Articles & Viva Stories
Two Research-Based Reading Experiences. One Shared Mission.
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NIH-funded research and decades of real-world dementia care experience shaped both Insight Articles and Viva Stories. Each format helps people living with dementia stay engaged in meaningful, dignified ways.
How Are They Similar?
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Adult-appropriate, engaging topics
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Created specifically for persons living with dementia
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Built-in discussion questions to spark connection
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Large font, easy-to-read formatting
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Available as downloadable PDFs or digital format
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Suitable for one-to-one and/or group use
How Are They Different?
Insight Articles​
Ideal for early-stage dementia
This format works well for individuals who still enjoy a flowing reading experience but need clear structure and support.
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8–10 page booklets focused on a single topic
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Simple, logical progression from page to page
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Large, easy-to-read font
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Discussion questions integrated within the article
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Opportunity to learn about something in relatively significant detail​
NOTE: When you click the button, the booklet will download as a PDF
Insight Article, California Gold Rush
Viva Stories
Ideal for middle-stage dementia
A highly supportive reading experience that maximizes cognitive accessibility.
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22–25 page booklets
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No continuous storyline — every page stands completely on its own
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Extra-large font for clear readability
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Discussion questions on a separate page to support focus
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The format ensures that meaningful engagement remains possible even as cognitive challenges increase
Viva Story, American Birds
NOTE: When you click the button, the booklet will download as a PDF or open in your browser
The Power of Reading
Reading remains one of the most powerful and often overlooked ways to support connection, dignity, and cognitive engagement for people living with dementia.
While memory, attention, and processing speed may change over time, the procedural skill of reading often remains intact for much of the dementia condition.
Unfortunately, many individuals stop reading—not because they lose the ability entirely, but because traditional books, newspapers, and magazines become visually dense and cognitively overwhelming. This makes them challenging to follow.
CONNECT reading materials are different. Clinically tested and intentionally designed for success, they use larger fonts, simplified structure, and adult-centered content. These thoughtful adaptations reduce frustration and improve comprehension.
As a result, individuals can continue to enjoy reading, maintain independence, and stay connected with others at every stage of cognitive change
Engaging Reading Materials for Every Interest
Everyone has different passions—some find joy in gardening, others prefer classic films. Maybe you’re a baseball fan, while someone else enjoys history. CONNECT's reading materials reflect these unique interests through a rich and inspiring collection.
With 500+ booklets and new content released monthly, there’s always something new to explore. Whether in a care community or at home, our booklets encourage interesting conversations, fond memories, and the excitement of discovering new favorites
Subscription and Pricing Details
CONNECT Reading Library Subscriptions
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Access to: Viva Stories (middle stage) & Insight Articles (early stage)​
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​500+ guided reading & discussion booklets
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40 FREE Samples of 11 other CONNECT activities
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Available in printable or digital format​​
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Use on your own device(s) OR choose a preloaded tablet(s) during checkout for a seamless start!
Save 14% Off the Regular Price
Save 31% Over Monthly Billing!
Limited Time Pricing
Rate Lock for 1 Year