Forging Connections through Storytelling
Connecting with others through sharing life stories is a consistently rewarding and enriching experience. Asking someone to share their life story increases their self-worth and strengthens relationship bonds. This is especially true with older people, where thinking about and discussing the past helps keep minds active and engaged.
There are some ways to engage an older person in a conversation about their life story. Consider the following tips:
Create a comfortable environment for the conversation, away from pressure or rush.
Ask open-ended questions to keep the conversation flowing.
Record their stories to keep your hands free and eyes focused on the storyteller.
Allow the person to set the pace. Ask follow up questions.
Use props like photo albums to guide the conversation.
Once you have set the stage, here are a few ideas for questions to ask to get the conversation started:
What was your childhood like?
Try to imagine the world through the older person’s eyes. What was it like to grow up in a simpler, or for some, a more complex time, and how did they feel about the world around them. They might recount tales of friendships formed, games played, and lessons learned from family.
Who was your biggest influence growing up?
Maybe it was a parent or teacher, neighbor or a friend who had the most influence on the person. Understanding these influences offers insight into their values and decisions. Perhaps they have a story of resilience or courage that left an impact.
What was your proudest achievement?
This may range from career triumphs to personal victories that reflect the storyteller’s values and aspirations. Hearing about their achievements offers insight into what they hold dear. Whether it was building a business, raising a family or contributing to the community, these stories are filled with pride and emotion and remind us of the greatness in ordinary lives.
What were major world events during your lifetime?
Every generation has milestones, calamities, victories and losses that shape society and personal lives. These can range from technological advances, to wars, to sporting contests. Learning about these world events offers perspective on how history played out in their lives; how the events affected their family, their community, their life plans and goals.
What traditions did your family have?
Family traditions are the thread that weave generations together. Traditions reflect cultural heritage, values and shared experiences that define a family. They offer insights into customs that have been passed down and talking about them reinforces that which is important to the storyteller.
What hopes do you have for future generations?
Every generation dreams of a better future, and the storyteller is no different. Whether it’s a wish for peace, happiness, or success, these hopes are a legacy in themselves. Their vision reflects the love and care they have for the generations yet to come.
Collecting stories from an older person goes beyond having a conversation about the good old days. It is a way of preserving history, of showing respect for the storyteller, and a priceless opportunity for the listener to learn something new.