Sharing past recollections is valuable for your loved one as they near the end of their life. They may feel they are passing on valuable knowledge or lessons. It can also help them face death more peacefully.
It’s also valuable for you and your family to help draw closer to your loved one and may reveal information you didn’t know previously. It can open opportunities for forgiveness and help mend relationships.
“Memory is a way of holding onto the things you love, the things you are, the things you never want to lose.”
- The Wonder Years
Use these helpful tips to talk to a loved one about their memories and experiences:
- When possible, allow your loved one to guide the conversation.
- Ask for specifics about their childhood, how they met their spouse, raising their children, holiday celebrations, family traditions and accomplishments they value.
- Look through photo albums or other mementos. These can be powerful. Enlarge photos if necessary; bring special framed photos into their room.
- Listen to music that is special to them which may include hymns, music from dating or a favorite musician.
- If they are not able to tell the story themselves, you tell it, pausing so they can add details. Share the complete story together with grandchildren or other family members who haven’t heard it.
Learn more, contact Tabitha Hospice at 402.486.8506 or a Bereavement Coordinator today.
