Intergenerational storytelling sessions at Bolton Clarke’s aged care homes are connecting residents with their memories and with each other, researchers say.
The research-based Life Stories program, which began with one-on-one interviews for Life Story Books, now brings residents together for story circles, which are facilitated by staff members and include residents, students, and volunteers.
According to Bolton Clarke Research Institute Research Fellow Dr Xanthe Golenko, the approach helps people capture their life stories.
“Life story work goes beyond the names and dates on a genealogy chart to present the stories behind the facts and bring a person’s past to life.
“It helps residents and clients enhance their sense of identity and self-esteem, encourages better communication and closer relationships and helps us better understand people’s needs and wishes provide care that suits them,” she said.
Program Manager Anna Fowke has called the program “a joy for all who participate”, saying the story circles help people have meaningful conversations.
“Everyone is included and has the choice to share or simply listen. We have had people who are non-verbal who have positively responded and participated as a result of being part of the circle and listening to the stories.
“This inclusive and gentle environment naturally conjures up memories from their own lives – having these conversations creates a real energy in the group,” she said.
Facilitators intend that, through the circles, residents who would enjoy creating life story books or posters will naturally identify themselves and can work with volunteers to create these records of their lives.
