Page 23 - Storytelling - Storylistening

VII. Reminiscing Ideas for Recovering Golden Memories
It also helps them connect with caregivers and feel more comfortable in their new surroundings.
Barnard’s own genuine curiosity and ways of making you talk easily draw old people into sharing their stories. Following are some strategies she has used as former instructor and Activities Therapist at the Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center (DHMC), Lebanon, NH, and in her current position at Maine Medical Center:
A. Reminiscence Boxes – Besides generic baskets like the one Wilfred created for Miss Nancy, Barnard and her volunteers create theme boxes filled with articles evoking memories of holidays and special events
like weddings and Halloween. A Christmas theme box, for example, may contain Christmas cards, tree decorations, holiday photos and ribbon. Among the endless possibilities of themes, sports, transportation, childhood games and fashions are but a few. Reminiscence boxes can be used one-on-one but are especially effective in groups: “Once someone tells a story, it triggers other people’s stories,” says Barnard.
Activity #2: Reminiscence Boxes in Learning Circles
1. Prepare a reminiscence box as described above and introduce it to participants in the learning circle.
2. Pass the box around the circle and have each person pull out one item that seems familiar and about which they are willing to tell a story.
3. After the box has completed the circle, ask if more time is needed to think of a story related to the item each person has selected.
4. Place a time limit (perhaps 3-5 minutes) for each person to tell his story so that a few individuals do not monopolize the discussion.
5. Go one-by-one around the circle and invite each participant to tell a story about the item they selected. Some may pass when it is their turn to speak, but are given another opportunity to tell their story after everyone else has spoken. Some also may only be able to choose an item and hold it up. This is a good beginning, and they should be encouraged. Over time he may be able to say something about the item.
6. After everyone has had an opportunity to speak, open up the conversation so others may talk about someone else’s item.
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