Storytelling and Oral History Projects for Adults with potential Memory Issues

Memory Care Library Blog > Storytelling and Oral History Projects for Adults with potential Memory Issues

Storytelling and Oral History Projects for Adults with potential Memory Issues

Description:

Lifelong Learning Programs: Develop lifelong learning programs that cater to the interests and curiosities of seniors. This can include lectures, workshops, or discussion groups on topics such as history, science, literature, or current events. Learning together fosters intellectual stimulation and encourages social engagement.

Potential Audiences:

  1. Individuals with Memory Issues including Dementia, Alzheimer’s, and Aphasia.
    1. Caregivers
      1. Family Members
      1. Healthcare Professionals including doctors, nurses, social workers, and therapists.
      1. Community Organizations and Volunteers
      1. General Public

Goal:

Have an impact on the older adult population in your community in terms of social engagement and learning.

Length:

One hour

Agenda:

Several Options

Intergenerational Storytimes: Organize intergenerational storytimes where seniors and young children come together for storytelling sessions. This promotes social interaction, mutual learning, and intergenerational connections.

Lifelong Learning Programs: Develop lifelong learning programs that cater to the interests and curiosities of seniors. This can include lectures, workshops, or discussion groups on topics such as history, science, literature, or current events. Learning together fosters intellectual stimulation and encourages social engagement.

Memory Journals or Scrapbooks: Create memory journals or scrapbooks filled with photographs, mementos, and written descriptions of meaningful events or milestones. Encourage the person to review and discuss the contents of the journal to spark memories and facilitate storytelling.

Storytelling or Oral History Projects: Encourage the person to share stories or participate in an oral history project. Create a safe and supportive environment where they can freely express their memories and experiences. Record the stories, either in written or audio format, to preserve them for future generations.

Space, Logistics, Equipment, Materials and Supplies:

Standard workshop set ups with accommodations for mobility impaired.

Refreshments

Potential community partners and outreach:

  • Alzheimer’s Association
  • Dementia-friendly Communities
  • Memory Care Facilities and Senior Centers
  • Healthcare Providers and Social Service Agencies
  • Aging and Gerontology Organizations
  • Nonprofit Organizations
  • Community Support Groups
  • Local Universities, Colleges, and Research Institutions

When approaching these organizations, it is helpful to have a clear vision of the library’s goals and resources. Be open to discussing potential partnerships, sharing ideas, and identifying areas where collaboration can benefit both parties. Building strong relationships with these organizations can enhance the library’s capacity to serve individuals with dementia and their families effectively.

Marketing:

  • Pick and test a great and non-stigmatized program title.
    • Work with your partners to communicate with potential participants and caregivers.
      • Search and engage with local networks, seniors club and residences, and social media (LinkedIn, Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, Twitter, etc.)
      • Consider outreach and off-site programs.

Evaluation:

  • Ask participants and caregivers for feedback for impact and improvement.
  • Evaluate your program as a series and as an event.
  • Collect feedback and testimonials.
  • Engage partners and outreach sites in evaluation.

Tips: Look to the following websites for inspiration: