Just thought I'd come back to this thread as I have finally found something that works - and today my husband started reading again!
It wasn't the short stories that worked unfortunately - I did get some short stories by his favourite authors and spent many hours typing some of them out in large font.
He gave it a go, bless him, and he was really grateful for all the effort, but sadly, as easy as it was to read the text, he was unable to concentrate on the story line and follow it through.
I thought that was that, but recently attended a new group for people with dementia and their carers (run by a local library) and in conversation someone said to me 'how about poetry?'
Well, I 've never really thought of my husband reading poetry, but why not, I thought. I tried him with some, including poetry from childhood as well as adult poetry - and he took to it.
Then, knowing that my husband has a keen sense of humour, I was searching for other suitable reading materials and came across a book of jokes in large print.
I gave the joke book to him today (it's our wedding anniversary and we always give each other a little 'token gift to mark the day) and he loves it! He has been dipping in and out of the jokes all day. It doesn't matter what order he does them in, he is relaxed and having a good old giggle.
I'm so happy to see him getting enjoyment from reading again. I am going to look out for further suitable poetry / rhyme collections as well as some books with humorous anecdotes.
Just thought I would share here in case any one else finds it a helpful idea to help loved ones previously keen on reading who are now struggling