May Was Older Americans Month
Share Their Story
The Administration for Community Living (ACL) declared May as Older Americans Month, and it is a celebration of the “countless contributions that older adults make to our communities.” At McGregor Amasa, this was just an extension of what we already believe: that seniors and older Americans are valuable members of our society and that they are capable of contributing so much to our world.
This year’s theme was “Make Your Mark,” and the ACL believes the best way to do that is to share your story.
Why Is It Important for Older Americans to Share Their Story?
We are so focused on our future that sometimes we forget how we got here. History is so important for our society and individual families. Sharing the past has tremendous impacts on the older Americans sharing the stories by giving them a chance to reminisce, which helps keep the mind sharp. It also helps them with mental health as it often connects them to a happier time and place. For those who have had a tough road through life, it can be therapeutic to talk about the feelings they have related to certain traumatic events they have experienced. Everyone benefits from shared experiences.
So, How Do We Share?
COVID-19 has made it tough to have face-to-face interactions, and for the residents of McGregor Amasa, that means it’s been a while since they’ve been able to have in-person visits from family. With that said, it hasn’t stopped our residents from reaching out to tell stories. Here are some ways they’ve found to share:
Video Chats
Video chats via smartphone or tablet have made being able to see our loved ones possible even when we are far away. If your loved one isn’t tech savvy, a facility assistant is always available to help out!
Draw a Picture of an Event That Shaped Your Life
Not a big talker? That’s not a problem. Provide the senior in your life with a pencil to draw a sketch of an experience or a person that has been important to them in the story of their life.
Keep a Journal and Write Every Day
They may not be able to share their stories the way they want to right now, but that doesn’t mean they can’t write them down and share them when they are able to spend time together with you in person!
Use a Phone or Computer to Record Your Stories
It’s really easy to record video messages, and it can be done without any special equipment outside of a phone or computer. You can use these as a video journal. If writing isn’t their thing, this is a way for the talkers to do their thing!
Whatever method used, do whatever you can to help share their story. McGregor Amasa would love to be a part of that story. We look forward to sharing our story with you!
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