November is Family Stories Month, and it’s an aspect of family life that’s often overlooked. You’ve likely heard plenty of family stories over the years, but what do you really know about the past generations? Gather the family for a holiday meal and sit down to share stories about your ancestors.
Why It’s Important to Share Family Stories
What is missing if you stop to think about how much you know of your family’s history? Do you know how your grandparents or great-grandparents died? Sometimes, family members have no idea and are missing important health histories that can affect their lives.
Your dad, grandfather, and great-grandfather all had high blood pressure, yet you’ve never known that. There’s the chance you could be the next generation to have this chronic health condition. By sharing family stories, you learn important facts like this and can talk to your doctor.
It’s also a good way to learn more about your family’s past. While gathered for Thanksgiving, your dad tells a story about brothers who settled a town after coming over the ocean from England. You’d never known this. It inspires you to explore that town and learn more about your heritage.
At the same time, sharing these stories is equally important to your dad. It allows him the chance to be the star of the show and socialize. Ask questions and get him talking. If possible, record the story for others interested in genealogy to research months or years from now.
You might not be interested in genealogy, but others could be. By capturing these stories now, you can save them for future generations to share.
How to Get Your Parents Talking
How do you get your parents to open up? Holiday gatherings are a great time for this. While gathered around the table, ask a question about the past. Ask your mom what she liked to do when she was a child. Ask your dad what he remembers about his grandparents. Get them talking during the meal.
Keep the Social Opportunities Going Year-Round
How social are your parents outside of the holidays? Do they have ample opportunities to socialize and engage with others? They need to. It’s beneficial to their mental and physical health.
Arrange companion care at home when you’re not available. With companion care, your mom and dad are not alone. You know they’re getting the help they need to live independently. That makes it easier to complete your daily tasks at work and home without the stress of wondering if they’re okay. Call a companion care at home expert to make arrangements.
If you are considering companion care at home in Bethesda, MD, for a loved one, please contact the caring staff at Care at Home of Rockville. Call today: (301) 923-4707.
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