The Stannah Silver Census 2019 Determined That Reading Never Gets Old

Many would agree that there is nothing quite like getting lost in a good book, and it would appear that you agree!

Our reading habits

We recently surveyed 1,600 UK adults aged 60+* and found that more than six in 10 people said getting greater choice over how to spend their time is one of the best things about reaching older age, with an outstanding 91% using their free hours to curl up with a good book. Almost a quarter even carry either a book or e-book with them at any given time.

Nearly half of those surveyed said they read every day, highlighting that they enjoy learning something new. We can certainly agree that reading does help to keep the mind ‘sharp’. Charity shops prove to be the most popular place to pick up new reading material , with nearly half (45%) choosing this destination over book shops and online. Furthermore, nearly a third (31%) continue to utilise their local library.

Bonding with grandchildren

It turns out that the over 60s in the UK are also keen to pass their love of reading on. For the majority (84%), quality time with grandchildren is best spent reading. Almost half (45%) of grandparents say this is one of the best things about growing old. More than a third do so once a week or more, with almost three quarters finding it an enjoyable way to bond.

Our favourite tales

In fact, four in 10 read their favourite tales to youngsters, with Robinson Crusoe, The Railway Children and the Famous Five featuring in the top classic children’s tales older Brits agreed little ones should immerse themselves in.

Top 20 books every child should read according to over 60s:

1. The Famous Five
2. The Railway Children
3. The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe
4. The Wind in the Willows
5. Tales of Winnie The Pooh
6. Alice's Adventures in Wonderland
7. The Tales of Beatrix Potter
8. The Jungle Book
9. Peter Pan
10. Charlie and the Chocolate Factory
11. The Secret Garden
12. Robinson Crusoe
13. The Very Hungry Caterpillar
14. Oliver Twist
15. The Gruffalo
16. The Harry Potter Series
17. Watership Down
18. The Tiger Who Came To Tea
19. Swallows and Amazons
20. Just William

Reading is a timeless hobby which transcends generations, whether it’s a hardback or on a Kindle! The magic of storytelling is a surefire way for grandparents to bond with their grandchildren, no matter what age.

*Study of 1,600 UK adults aged 60+ conducted by OnePoll in August 2019.