20 Best Audible Books for Seniors

A study by the National Institute of Health (NIH) concluded that listening to audiobooks showed significant improvements in the mental health of older adults. Listening to an audiobook is one of the best therapeutic activities for seniors.

This article covers the best Audible books for seniors in different genres.

20 Best Audible Books for Seniors

The best books are selected from Fiction, Biographies, Personal Development and Inspirational genres. The last section covers books on senior health and fitness and aging issues.

Related Articles: Audible Guide for Seniors | 9 Best Audible Devices for Seniors

Fiction

This section covers the best fiction audible books for older adults.

1: The Help

• #1 New York Times Bestseller
• Nominated as one of America’s best-loved novels by PBS’s The Great American Read
• 11 Million+ copies sold

The fictional story is set in Mississippi in 1962. The perspective shifts between two black maids (Aibileen and Minny) and a young white woman Skeeter. The characters are imperfect but unforgettable.

“The two principal maid characters…leap off the page in all their warm, three-dimensional glory…A winning novel.” – The New York Times

Skeeter is a 22-year-old graduate whose mother wants her to settle down. Aibileen is a wise woman raising her seventeenth white child. She is broken from the inside after the loss of her child.

Minny is Aibileen’s best friend, a short, fat, and sassiest woman in town. She has lost another job because of her rude behavior. Minny finally finds a job working for someone new in town, too new to know her reputation. But the new boss has a secret of her own.

These three women come together to start a movement to change the town for the better. Will they be able to change the status quo? The stakes are so high for the maids.

The Help tackles issues such as racial injustice, fear, and rejection. You will also find love, bravery, humor, and hope in the story. This book will make you laugh and cry.

2: The 100-Year-Old Man Who Climbed Out the Window and Disappeared

• 6 Million+ copies sold worldwide!

Allan Karlsson is about to celebrate his 100^th birthday at a retirement home in Sweden but he has other plans. He is alert despite his age and not interested in the birthday party. Instead, he climbs out of the window and embarks on a hilarious journey.

Allan has an incredible backstory. He has not only witnessed some of the key events of the 20th century but also played key roles in some of them.

At the start of his adventure journey, he steals a suitcase stuffed with drug dealers’ money. Allan is chased by police and a gang of criminals for different reasons. Allen’s motley crew consists of really interesting characters and an elephant. They manage to stay one step ahead of the police.

The 100-Year-Old Man Who Climbed Out the Window and Disappeared is an international sensation with 6 million+ copies sold worldwide!

The book is pure entertainment with flashbacks of Allan’s life. This novel will tickle your funny bone and do not be surprised if you find yourself chuckling and cackling while reading the book.

3: The Nightingale

• #1 New York Times Bestseller
• Winner of Best Historical Fiction – Goodreads Choice Award (2015)
• Wall Street Journal Best Book of the Year

The writer paints the atmosphere of France and captures the epic panorama of World War II. You will love this remarkable novel if you are into historical fiction.

The Nightingale is a story of two sisters embarking on the dangerous path to survival in German-occupied and war-torn France.

The heartbreaking story celebrates the resilience of women. The characters seem complex and unreasonable at the beginning but everything falls in place as the story progress. The separations and heartbreaks will make you sobbing and broken but the ending feels wholesome.

“A powerful and unforgettable portrait of love and war” – People Magazine

USA Today called it “A heart-pounding story”.

4: A Man Called Ove

• #1 New York Times Bestseller
• 3 Million+ copies sold

Ove is an angry old man next door with staunch principles, a short fuse, and strict routines. He is known as the “bitter neighbor from hell” but there is a sad story behind the cranky exterior.

Ove’s solitary world turns on its head when a chatty young couple with two young daughters moves in next door. The story takes a comical and heartwarming turn with an unexpected friendship.

“You’ll laugh, you’ll cry, you’ll feel new sympathy for the curmudgeons in your life” – People Magazine

The hilarious storyline makes you laugh at times and there are some deep, touching, and heartful moments that may bring tears to your eyes. You become engaged with characters and how they develop relationships and form a family.

This book makes you appreciate the little things in your life. J.K.Simmons is an exceptional narrator who elevates it a notch further.

5: The Alchemist

Paulo Coelho’s The Alchemist has inspired a devoted following across generations. It has become a modern-day classic and has transformed the lives of countless readers (and listeners) around the world.

Santiago, an Andalusian shepherd boy, travels from Spain to Egypt in search of the treasure buried in the pyramids. Santiago is an ordinary man, full of doubts and fears. But he has the drive and courage to continue on his path.

 He meets many people during his journey including a palm reader, a thief, an old man, a Gypsy woman, a man who calls himself king, a crystal merchant, and an Alchemist. All of them point Santiago in the direction of his quest.

What started as a journey for worldly treasure turns into a meditation on the treasures found within. His quest led him to riches far more satisfying.

“This Brazilian wizard makes books disappear from stores.” – The New York Times

Santiago’s story teaches us to follow our dreams and listen to our hearts. It is one of the best classic Audible books for seniors.

“A sweetly exotic tale for young and old alike.” – Publishers Weekly

6: Dear Edward

• New York Times Bestseller

When you have lost your family and everything, how do you find the strength to move forward in life? How do you find the meaning and purpose of life?

This is the story of Edward Adler, a 12 years old sole survivor of a plane crash that killed his older brother, parents, and 183 other passengers. The flight, from Newark to Los Angeles, had many interesting people traveling who developed a bond in a short time.

Among the passengers are a Wall Street wunderkind, a free-spirited woman fleeing from her husband, an injured vet returning from Afghanistan, a pregnant single woman, and a septuagenarian business tycoon.

“Dear Edward is that rare book that breaks your heart and stitches it back together during a reading experience that leaves you profoundly altered for the better.” —Jodi Picoult, New York Times Bestselling Author

After the crash, Edward continues to feel that a part of him was left in the sky tied to his fellow passengers. He struggles to find a place for himself in the world without his family.

The novel travels back and forth in time between what happened during the flight and Edward’s life afterward.

One of the best books of the year – The Washington Post, Parade, LibraryReads

The novel is heartbreaking in many ways but you will love Edward’s evolution and how he comes across a finding which helps heal him in many, many ways.

7: 1984

• Nominated as one of America’s best-loved novels by PBS’s The Great American Read

George Orwell’s 1984 is one the most celebrated classics of the 20th century.

The Superstate and its residents are under the control of a privileged elite of the Inner Party. A govt that prosecutes independent thinking, as a “thought crime”, enforced by the vast network of agents and “thought police”.

In a social system where news is manufactured according to the authority’s will, Winston Smith longs only for truth and decency. Winston and his love interest, Julia, endeavor to rebel against Big Brother in their own ways.

Nominated as one of America’s best-loved novels by PBS’s The Great American Read

1984 is a classic you won’t want to miss and Simon Prebble is the perfect narrator.

Biographies

The section covers the best Audible books for seniors from biographies, autobiographies, and memoirs sections.

8: Educated

• #1 New York Times Bestseller
• Wall Street Journal Bestseller
• Winner of Best Memoir & Autobiography – Goodreads Choice Award(2018)

Educated is a tale of hope and an account of horror. Tara Westover was 17 when she first set foot in a classroom with no clue that she would become a Cambridge Ph.D.

“Extraordinary . . . an act of courage and self-invention.” — The New York Times

Tara was the youngest of 7 children, born in a family that was isolated from mainstream society. Her father believed that doomsday is coming and the family should interact with health and education systems as little as possible.

There was no one to ensure that kids receive an education or were homeschooled. Tara never saw a doctor and every emergency or health issue was treated at home with herbalism.

You will have to keep reminding yourself that these events happened in the past 20 years because the mindset and ideas sound antiquated.

Tara began educating herself and her quest for knowledge transformed her life. She is a gifted writer with a poetic command of language.

One of the best books of the year: The Washington Post, O: The Oprah Magazine, Good Morning America, The Guardian, The Economist, Financial Times, New York Post, Bloomberg, LibraryReads, New York Public Library

Educated is an account of struggle and a tale of fierce family loyalty. You will love the book even if you are not a fan of autobiographies. The book remained on top of the New York Times bestseller list for a long time and everyone loved Tara’s process of self-discovery.

9: Spare

• #1 New York Times Bestseller

It is always worth it to hear someone’s story from their own mouth. This is the story of Prince Harry, The Duke of Sussex. He fled his mother country and left the Royal Family, an act a few had dared.

When two princes (Willian and Harry) walked behind their mother’s coffin, the world watched in sorrow. It was one of the historical moments of the 20th century. 12 years old Harry was the happy-go-lucky Spare. His life turned upside down after losing his mother Diana. He suffered from anger and loneliness, and had a hard time accepting the life in spotlight.

In Spare, Harry shares his childhood life and talks about his mother, military career, and life as a Royal. It is a fascinating experience to hear about his meeting with Meghan and falling in love with her.

Harry always blamed the press for his mother’s death. Meghan also suffered from a wave of lies and racism. He saw no other option to prevent history repeating itself but to flee the country to save his wife from suffering like his mother.

“Compellingly artful . . . a blockbuster memoir.” — The New Yorker

Whether you love Royals or hate them, this is a must-listen book that reminds us of the fact that Royals are humans too. They also have stories about love, loss, life, duties, family, and mental health.

10: A Woman Makes a Plan

At 71 years of age, Maye Musk is a beauty with brains. A Supermodel and a dietitian with multiple university degrees.

She talks about her current-day fashion modeling career at the beginning of the book and shares her perspective and advice on aging and how she overcame ageism in the modeling industry.

She had an adventurous upbringing because of resourceful parents. But, suffered terribly from the abuse of her cruel husband and became a single mother at the age of 31. She struggled through poverty to provide for her three children; Elon, Kimbal, and Tosca. The story of her resolve as a single mother is admirable as she builds her life from scratch, noting the importance of making a plan.

She allowed her children to pursue their own interests and they found success in their fields.

Maye is an elegant, glamorous, inspiring woman who is modeling at 71 years of age and has a fabulous career. She closes the book with health and diet advice.

May Musk has a clear message in the book, you can’t control what happens in life but you can have the life you want. All you have to do is to make a plan.

11: Finding Me

• Oprah’s book club pick
• HARPERS BAZAAR ‘s best book of 2022 

Actress and producer Viola Davis shares her story that digs deep into the pain of her youth, poverty, and racism. The terrifying and ultimately transcendent story shares her journey of overcoming all odds to pursue her lifetime dreams.

She had an absolutely horrific childhood. Viola even experienced colorism in the acting world and how they tried to “shape” her into a perfect “white” actress. She also discusses how the role of Annalise transformed and liberated her.

She teaches us how to tackle a situation “My biggest discovery was that you can literally re-create your life. You can redefine it. You don’t have to live in the past”.

12: The Happiest Man on Earth

• New York Times Bestseller
• Winner of the Abia Biography of the Year 2021

This memoir is the story of a holocaust survivor, Edward Jaku. It was published when Eddie turned 100 years old and became an immediate best seller.

The Happiest Man on Earth is a story of hope, love, and above all kindness. The book opens with “MY DEAR NEW FRIEND” and Eddie takes you as a friend back to his dark times, his survival, and his losses but offers hope for the future. Eddie faced unimaginable horror for 7 years in Nazi camps. Because he survived, Eddie made the vow to smile every day.

Eddie teaches us that happiness can be found in the darkest times and that “Life can be beautiful if you make it beautiful. It is up to you”.

Eddie also shared his story in a TED Talk that you can watch below.

13: At Home with Muhammad Ali

Muhammad Ali is a larger-than-life historical figure. Hana Ali, the third youngest child of Muhammad Ali, lets us see a side of her father that only those closest to him would know. The book gives us a glimpse into Muhammad Ali’s private life as a boxing champion, Olympic gold medalist, activist, philanthropist, and most importantly a family man.

Ali began recording audio diaries in the 70s that her daughter inherited. This candid family memoir is based on Ali’s personal recordings, journals, love letters, cherished memories, and never before seen photographs.

Hana shares the laughter and joy, the pain and hardship, and love that bonded them. She has a spectacular special bond with her father. You will love a glimpse into Muhammad Ali’s life, shared through the lens of his beloved daughter.

14: When Breath Becomes Air

• #1 New York Times Bestseller
• Pulitzer Prize Finalist
• Best Memoir & Autobiography – Goodreads Choice Award (2016)

What makes a life worth living? Paul Kalanithi, a 36 years old neurosurgeon, attempts to answer the question after he was diagnosed with stage IV lung cancer. From a doctor treating the dying to a patient struggling to live, Paul’s life changed upside down.

Paul Kalanithi died in March 2015 while working on this book. This is a short, philosophical, and moving story of how Paul faces the situations and wrestles with questions like what makes life worth living in the face of death?

One of the best books of the year – The New York Times, People, NPR, The Washington Post, Publishers Weekly

When Breath Becomes Air is a profoundly moving memoir reflecting on the challenge of facing death and the relationship of doctor and patient, from a brilliant writer who became both.

Senior Life

This section covers the best audible books for elderly on senior life, health and fitness, and aging issues.

15: OutLive

• #1 New York Times Bestseller

Dr. Peter Attia, a visionary physician and leading longevity expert, reveals a new approach to preventing chronic diseases and extending long-term health. Outlive delves into the science behind longevity and explores the art of living well.

Dr. Attia believes we need a personalized and proactive strategy for longevity replacing the outdated framework that prolongs the lifespan at the expense of health span.

“One of the most important books you’ll ever read.”—Steven D. Levitt, New York Times Bestselling Author

Outlive is the operating manual for longevity and Dr. Attia believes our fate is not set in stone. With the right roadmap, we can outlive our genes to make each decade better than before and plot a different path for our life.

16: Keep Sharp

Keep Sharp is a science-driven guide to keeping your mind healthy and sharp at any age. Dr. Sanjay Gupta, neurosurgeon and CNN chief medical correspondent, debunks common myths about aging and cognitive decline. You will get the insights from world’s top scientists to help you protect brain function and maintain cognitive health at any age.

The book is divided into three parts.

• The first part shares some basic facts related to the brain
• The second part mentions the strategies and practical advice to protect and heighten your brain functions including exercise, sense of purpose, learning, sleep and relaxation, nutrition, and social interaction.
• The third part deals with challenges to diagnosing and treating brain diseases including Vascular, dementia and Alzhemeimer’s.

Dr. Gupta discusses aging, brain-friendly diet, and exercise in detail. You will get answers to many questions.

• Is it possible to improve the brain functions of seniors?
• What is the easiest and most effective method to improve brain functions?
• Why hydration is important for your brain function?
• Is there any relationship between fast food and memory loss?
• What is the best hobby or exercise to make your brain sharper?
• Does sleep affect your brain functions?

You will discover Dr.Gupta’s S.H.A.R.P way of eating for a healthier brain. Keep Sharp is one of the best audible books for elderly to improve cognitive abilities and keep their brain sharp and active.

17: Younger Next Year

• New York Times Bestseller
• Wall Street Journal Bestseller
• USA Today Bestseller
• Publishers Weekly Bestseller

A book by 70 old Chris Crowley and his doctor, Henry Lodge, who believes “70%+ of the effects of old age are voluntary! They can be mitigated by lifestyle changes”.

The book draws on the latest science of aging to show how older adults (50 years and beyond) can become functionally younger every year and continue to live like fifty years old until in their eighties and beyond.

Chris is stronger today at the age of 70 than he was at 40. Harry tells you what to do, Chris tells you how, and their argument is irresistible. Harry’s rules are simple: exercise 6 days a week, quit eating crap, connect and commit. Follow the rules and you will find yourself in the best shape, in mind, body, and spirit of your life.

Younger Next Year has motivated and helped thousands of seniors who changed their routines and helped them understand why heart rate, nutrition, and good relationship are important.

Inspirational/ Personal Development

The final section introduces the best picks from inspirational, personal development, and productivity titles.

18: The Four Agreements

• New York Times Bestseller – For over a decade
• Translated into 46 languages worldwide

Miguel Ruiz reveals the source of self-limiting beliefs that rob us of joy and are reasons of needless suffering.

Our personal power is based on our agreements, and we often make those agreements to please others. The book is about taking back personal power by adhering to our true selves. The Four Agreements are: Be impeccable in your word, Don’t take anything personally, Don’t make assumptions, and Always give your best.

“This book by don Miguel Ruiz, simple yet so powerful, has made a tremendous difference in how I think and act in every encounter.” — Oprah Winfrey

The book has a clear message, don’t judge yourself and stop being a victim of your own harsh criticism. This is one of the few books that will make you re-evaluate some of your beliefs.

Ruiz encourages readers and listeners to practice the agreements daily and forgive themselves when they are imperfect.

19: Atomic Habits

• #1 New York Times Bestseller

James Clear, the world’s leading expert on habit formation, shares a proven framework to form good habits and break bad ones. You will get practical strategies to master the tiny behaviors that lead to remarkable results.

You will be inspired and entertained by stories from Olympic gold medalists, award-winning artists, business leaders, star comedians, and life-saving physicians who developed small habits to master their craft.

Atomic Habits will give you the tools and strategies to:

• Make time for new habits
• Overcome lack of motivation and willpower
• Design your system to make success easier
• Get back on track when you fall off the course

Whether you want to quit smoking, lose weight, reduce anxiety and stress, or achieve a specific goal, this book is for everyone. One of the must-listen Audible books for seniors for self-improvement.

20: The Ultimate Retirement Guide for 50+

• New York Times Bestseller
• Wall Street Journal Bestseller
• USA Today Bestseller
• Publishers Weekly Bestseller

Suze Orman, America’s most recognized finance expert, provides you with advice and practical tools to plan for your retirement. This is a highly recommended book for anyone over 50 to take care of their “older version”.

Suze guides you on what to have in a place financially so your retirement is more enjoyable with fewer surprises. You will learn to

• Manage your money for the long haul
• A thorough explanation of how social security, Medicare, and pensions work
• How to help your kids and others without sabotaging your retirement
• Tips on downsizing and delaying social security benefit

If you don’t want to work after 70, you better listen to Suze’s advice. You can also check out the retirement blogs and Ted Talks on retirement for more retirement planning resources.

I have also shared fun retirement job ideas to help seniors make money doing fun jobs from home.

There you have it, the list of 20 best Audible books for seniors. You can also check out Audible’s Free Listen section for hundreds of free audiobooks including some great classics.