Page 6 - Storytelling - Storylistening

II. Everyone Benefits
“The very act of sharing a story with another human being contradicts the extreme isolation that characterizes so
many of our lives. As such, storytelling carries within it the seeds of community. Hospital settings and other healthcare environments must be totally reassessed, making room for institutional models of healing that incorporate storytelling...”
– Richard Stone, The Healing Art of Storytelling, A Sacred Journey of Personal Discovery
Everyone benefits from reminiscing and storytelling. When we encourage it in long term care settings:
Residents feel more comfortable in their new surroundings, become better connected with their caregivers and other residents, and may enjoy greater health and longevity. Minds are more active and memories are awakened even in those with severe cognitive loss. For the terminally ill, reminiscing and storytelling is an opportunity for life review, and to make peace with one’s self and with others.
Family members become more involved in the lives of their elders by joining in events like community learning circles, bringing mementos to remind residents of important life experiences and helping them record their life stories. In the process, family members learn more about their own historical roots.
Caregivers better understand the residents and their individual needs, work is more enjoyable and relationships grow stronger. Reminiscing among staff promotes teamwork and community.
Caregiver organizations can potentially gain a competitive edge, attract new residents and increase census by promoting an open, communicative atmosphere and helping elders tell their stories. Reminiscing and storytelling are meaningful activities for practically all residents regardless of their physical and cognitive capacity, thus helping meet requirements for aging-in-place. Talk is cheap. No special equipment, supplies or extensive staff training is needed.
Local community members, through intergenerational programs and other interactions with long term care providers, can tap into a rich resource of elders’ historical eyewitness accounts and deep perspectives gained from lifetimes of experience on how (and how not) to live.
Porch Swing SeriesTM Culture Change Workbooks ©Action Pact, Inc.2005-2006 p.2