For seniors with vision impairments or disabilities that make reading difficult, audiobooks open up a world of stories, knowledge, and entertainment, without the need for printed text. The good news? Many high-quality audiobook services are available at no cost to those who qualify. Whether it's classic literature, best-selling novels, or educational content, these resources help keep minds active and spirits high.
In this article, we’ll share how blind or disabled seniors can access free audiobook programs and tips for making the most of these valuable services.
Seniors with Vision Impairment Can Still Enjoy Reading
Many older adults still enjoy reading even though their eyesight may have declined with age, they’ve become blind, or they’ve developed a physical disability.
If that happens, traditional books won’t work anymore. And it’s no fun if they’re constantly forced to rely on someone to read to them.
Audio and braille books allow these seniors to continue reading independently.
The National Library Service, part of the Library of Congress, offers a free braille and audiobook service that allows vision-impaired or physically disabled older adults to continue reading independently.
We explain how this excellent free service works, who’s eligible, and how to sign up.
Free Service Sends Audiobooks and Braille Books to Your Home
The National Library Service (NLS) is a free braille and talking book library service for people with vision impairments or physical disabilities that prevent them from holding traditional books.
The free service works through local libraries, which mail NLS talking or braille books and magazines directly to the home or offer instant downloads (an account is required).
Additionally, they offer easy-to-use playback equipment specifically designed for individuals with low or no vision.
The National Library Service offers:
- Braille or audio book formats
- Free mailing to your door or instant downloads
- A wide variety of the most current reading material, including best sellers, biographies, fictional works, how-to books, magazines, and music scores
- BARD mobile app for download and playback anywhere
Who is Eligible for NLS Books?
Who’s eligible? (summarized, see full details here):
- Blind persons with 20/200 vision or less in the better eye with correcting lenses
- Persons whose visual disability, with correction, is certified to prevent the reading of standard printed material
- Persons certified as unable to read or use standard printed material due to physical limitations
Who can certify eligibility? (summarized, see full details here):
- Doctors of medicine or osteopathy
- Ophthalmologists or optometrists
- Registered nurses
- Therapists
- Social workers
- Professional librarians (in some cases)
How to Sign Up for NLS Books
To apply for the NLS service, follow the instructions here.
Call (202) 707-5100 or 1-800-424-8567 toll-free for additional assistance.
To speak with a local librarian, call 1-888-NLS-READ (1-888-657-7323) toll-free. Your call will be connected to a participating library near you.
Next Steps: Apply for NLS service or find out more about the National Library Service.
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About the Author
Connie Chow
Connie was a hands-on caregiver for her grandmother for 20 years. (Grandma made it to 101 years old!) She knows how challenging, overwhelming, and all-consuming caring for an older adult can be. She also knows how important support is — especially in the form of practical solutions, valuable resources, and self-care tips.
I don’t know what device is needed for books on tape. I’m very interested in getting started.
Digital audio and ebraille materials are available through the NLS Braille and Audio Reading Download (BARD) online service. BARD audio materials can also be downloaded onto cartridges and USB flash devices. NLS also loans playback equipment free of charge for use with talking books and magazines. Find out more at https://www.loc.gov/nls/enrollment-equipment/equipment-needed-for-nls-materials/
Irecieveaudiobooksinthemail.Iwouldliketrecieveonmyipad.Thankyou.
The NLS has information about downloading their BARD mobile app that allows you to download audiobooks to your iOS device at this page on their website – https://www.loc.gov/programs/national-library-service-for-the-blind-and-print-disabled/about-this-service/benefits/
My wife is blind. She gets books from the free libary. But most of the books she can not read there bad . Do you rent from you. An she can play them on her I phone for the blind Apple 6 .
We share 2 additional sources of audio books in this article – Entertain and Engage Seniors with Books on Tape https://dailycaring.com/stimulate-senior-minds-with-books-on-tape/
Hopefully you’ll be able to find some books that your wife will enjoy.