I’ve recently started reading ‘A Day in the Life of a Dementia Sufferer’ blog, and think it gives great insight into the disease - especially because our family members suffering from dementia don’t always verbalize their own experience with dementia like Leah (the blogger) does. I came across a post about her decision to take up digital scrapbooking as a hobby- allowing her to ‘organize’ her memories. I’ve also read tips for caregivers that encourage them to help their aging parents or other loved ones document their own special memories, family history, and favorite stories. This can take on all sorts of forms- whether you prefer to create photo albums, write down stories, take new family photos, record stories and conversations, or even just reminisce with your loved one.

By sharing with your loved one, you maintain your close relationship, grow your relationship, get insight into their life and personality - and you will probably hear some great stories. For older adults, it can mean a lot to have their life and memories preserved, and talking about their past, remembering the ‘good old days’, and creating new treasured memories through interacting with their loved ones can help their sense of well-being. Embarking with your loved ones on a project like this can be extremely rewarding. One of my favorite NPR programs is ‘StoryCorps’, an oral history project (find out more here). StoryCorps has individuals interview a loved one about anything they choose – the questions range from ‘life in general’ and ‘how we met’ stories to experiences during desegregation and remembering another loved one who has passed away.  The interviews are moving and help remind me just how important each one of is - and how large our impact on the lives around us is.

You don’t have to participate in StoryCorps (although click here to find out how to participate), and you may not be comfortable interviewing your loved one. The point is that as we age, many of us like remembering our lives, leaving our ‘legacy’, and above all, interacting with loved ones. How can you get involved with your loved one? Will you bring over a photo album to flip through the next time you see your mom? Will you help your uncle write his memoirs? Don’t wait any longer – start the conversation with your loved one today… you may hear some great stories!