Families are being urged to use Father’s Day as a focus to find out more about their dads.
The Council on the Ageing (COTA) Victoria CEO, Tina Hogarth-Clarke, said conversations with fathers and grandfathers about their life experiences could be the starting point to create a unique family treasure of memories.
Father’s Day, this Sunday September 1, when the family members commonly gather, is a timely significant day to start the conversation.
Ms Hogarth-Clarke said the development of Inspiring Life Stories by family members can be a valuable education lesson for children to find out what life was like for their parents, the fashions of the day, the cost of food and what life was like without the internet.
“This knowledge can pass down through the generations providing an insight into lifestyle and challenges faced by parents and grandparents.”
COTA Victoria has also released a pack of Reminiscing Story Cards which provide prompts for older people to talk about:
- Beginnings – family, childhood, school, friendships, work and relationships
- Strengths and successes – happy experiences and achievements
- Challenges and wisdom – values and traditions, legacy and lessons learnt.
The Reminiscing Story Cards provide a black and white photo matched to each question and they come with a booklet that provides instructions for use.
Ms Hogarth-Clarke said with time to reminisce and a bit of prompting, we all have stories to tell and conversations are a simple caring strategy to break down the loneliness barriers for older Australians.
“Reminiscing in a supportive environment and with a focus on strengths and positives can lift an older person’s spirit, reminding them – and their families and support workers – of their resourcefulness and depth of experience.”
Media Enquiries:
Ron Smith, Media Communications, COTA Victoria – Mobile: 0417 329 201