Forthcoming Publications
WRITING LIFE HISTORIES
A guide for use in caring environments
Writing life histories is a practical handbook which gives clear guidance on how to put together life histories in supportive or residential settings. It provides:
· Step-by-step
guidance
· Ideas for different
types of life histories
· Activities, strategies
and material for prompting memories
· Helpful tools and
writing tips
· Suggestions for support
and forming partnerships with other local services
· Ideas for involving
the person’s family and friends
· Discussion on ethical
issues to be considered
Benefits of engaging a group or an individual in Life History activities include:
For the person:
· An
aid to memory
· Creative stimulation
· A personalised
identity when in a residential home
· Promotion of interaction
and co-operation with others
· Continuity with
previous life experience combating loss of identity
· Reinforcement
of sense of identity, values and experience
· Opportunity to
pass knowledge and experience to others
· A record of their
life and times
· An aid to reminiscing
· Fun and enjoyment
For staff:
· Knowing
about past experiences promotes understanding of behaviour, needs
and outlook on life resulting in more personalised care
· References for
conversation with cognitive impaired individuals
· Knowledge about
life accomplishments promoting respect for individuals
For relatives/Carers:
· Continued
involvement and contribution to the person’s life and care
· A sense of family
identity and values
· Knowledge and
understanding of family history
· A keepsake for
grandchildren
This is an indispensible resource for anyone interested in compiling life histories including nurses, residential home staff, carers, tutors and occupational therapists, group facilitators in day centres, clubs for the elderly or learning disabilities.
PUBLICATION: Autumn 2011 Speechmark Publishing Ltd www.speechmark.net