Creating A Life Story

Our experiences shape who we are and make us unique.

For many people with Alzheimer’s disease, memories from long ago may be the only ones that remain.

Creating and sharing a person’s “Life Story” can help caregivers and loved ones connect in meaningful ways. It also provides a way to choose activities, redirect attention, and reduce difficult behaviors.

The main goal is simple: discover who your loved one is, where they've been, and what they've done throughout their life.

Make Life Story an activity at any stage

Early Stage: Work together with your loved one to create a life story.

This might take the form of a scrapbook, pulling in family, friends, and neighbours to share written stories, letters, photographs, postcards, poetry, souvenirs, or other keepsakes. You can also record or videotape conversations with your loved ones as they share memories of past events.

Middle Stage: Revisit the Life Story often.

Look through the scrapbook and reminisce about the items inside. Watch videos or listen to audio recordings together. Create a family tree poster with photos and names, and when visitors come, invite them to autograph their photo to leave a personal mark.

Late Stage: Read the life story aloud.

Hearing your voice talk about familiar memories can be soothing and comforting. Encourage care providers and visitors to use the life story as a starting point for conversation.

Notes about the Life Story activity

A good start would be interviewing your loved one about their family history, nationality, heritage, traditions, and celebrations. You might also ask about favorite sports, books, music, hobbies, or important cultural and historical events.

Because more recent memories fade first, focus on childhood interests, games, homes, and pets. Many people with Alzheimer's enjoy reminiscing, and recalling early experiences can bring them joy.

If memory is limited, gather stories and memories from neighbors, co-workers, old friends, and other family members. Other valuable sources include old documents, letters, and personal correspondence. To preserve them, consider making copies of photos and important papers, as scrapbooks are often handled frequently.

Why a Life Story Matters

A life story is more than just a keepsake; it's a way to highlight the positive parts of your loved one's life and to show that they are valued. Even after most memories fade, the life story remains a lasting reminder of identity and dignity.

Involve your loved one in the project as much as possible. Whether simple or elaborate, each life story is unique and personal.

Sharing the life story with other caregivers can also be incredibly helpful, especially in medical or long-term care settings. Many facilities use life stories as tools to individualize care and deepen understanding of each person.

Finally, a life story can serve as a gentle guide during difficult times. When agitation or frustration arises, looking back through the story may provide comfort for your loved one and remind you of the meaningful life they've lived.

Creating a Life Story is more than an activity; it’s a gift of love, connection, and legacy. Each photo, story, or memory added helps honor the unique journey of your loved one and provides comfort and guidance for both family and caregivers. By taking time to capture these moments, you ensure that the essence of who they are continues to shine, even as memories fade.

We would be honored to help tell your loved one’s story and celebrate the life they have lived. Share a favorite photo, video, or written memory that captures who they are and the life they’ve lived.

Share a Memory, Build a Life Story

Your stories will become part of our Life Story project, preserving dignity, connection, and joy for families and caregivers.

Please click here to share your memories.