ELDER STORIES
| Everyone, in some way or another, leaves a mark on this world. How would you like to be remembered? An Elderstory looks at the milestones and millstones in someone’s life. Catherine Thurlow’s background in nursing, spiritual care, counselling and management of volunteers in geriatric settings has given her many insights into some of the joys and challenges of old age and the importance of reflecting on ones life and then telling that story. These are important psychological growth and development stages of old age. Linking people to their experiences has been shown to reaffirm the “self” and they are more able to participate in the present. In the Celtic tradition this is the time known as the winter of life– a time for reflection, for gathering experiences and exploring things we didn’t have time for in the past. In winter we can see further and see things in richer detail. At Elderstories we explore the challenges and beauty of old age and claim these riches. Reminiscing helps us to tell our personal stories and we can ‘find the gold’ in them in ways that lead to a more rewarding life. Guided by a trained person, reminiscence has been shown to lead to good mental health. |
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So many people care for the older members of their families in ways that ensure their physical wellbeing and stave off the loneliness that is often prevalent in old age. Another important aspect of care is listening to ‘the story,’ learning and tapping into that wisdom. Sadly, it is often not until later in life that younger generations realize they’d missed the opportunity to ask all sorts of questions. This is where we come in. We explore many relevant topics from childhood to late adulthood, from family history to the person’s happiest moments and biggest challenges. Most of us are going to become ancestors. What will we mean to future generations? Everyone needs roots and wings in order to lead a successful life. Everything from computers, to reading, to music lessons can provide wings. Your life story can provide the roots that are so necessary in enabling your descendants to live full, rewarding lives. We all build on the foundations we have been given. Knowing the strengths and stories of our ancestors builds a firmer foundation from which to fly. An important role of every older generation is to impart the richness and knowledge of their heritage. We not only help people reflect on their lives and tell their stories, we are associated with a creative, wonderful video company. Reno Video Productions records the stories in a respectful, sensitive way, a way that acknowledges the beauty of the life lived. Catherine trained as a nurse at the Royal Victoria Hospital in Montreal, received a certificate in counseling from Algonquin College, a Bachelor of Theology and a Master of Pastoral Theology from St Paul University and the University of Ottawa. Throughout her career she has worked in geriatric settings supporting both older adults and their families. She is a member of a number of groups that support senior members of the community. |
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