Three Reasons to Reach out To a Senior Loved One on National Tell a Story Day
Here are three reasons why you should take the time today to reach out to a senior loved one or friend to tell them a story and allow them to share a story with you as well.
Today is National Tell a Story Day which is a day to celebrate the art of storytelling. This celebration dates back to ancient times and falls on April 27 each year. In ancient times, people would gather around a fire and pass down tales from generation to generation. These stories were used to entertain, educate, and inspire each other.
- Statistics show seniors are more likely to be lonely throughout the day and can feel like a burden to reach out to loved ones. This often can lead to feelings of guilt, shame, and isolation, which can further contribute to loneliness and social isolation. Taking the effort to reach out to them for a few minutes shows you care and increase social connectedness among seniors.
- Allowing a senior loved one to talk and share stories can be beneficial for their memory. Reminiscing about past experiences can help stimulate the brain and improve cognitive function. It can also help seniors feel more connected to their past and provide a sense of purpose and meaning in their lives.
- Taking advantage of the opportunity to learn from or connect with them isn’t always possible in the future. Seniors have a wealth of knowledge and life experiences that they can share with you. Take the time to listen to their stories and learn from their wisdom.
So on National Tell a Story Day, take some time to share your favorite tale with a senior friend or loved one. It can be a story from your childhood, a favorite book, or about your day. And remember, the best stories are the ones that come from the heart.
