The Present of the Past
Dear Caregivers,
It was 85 years ago this week that four young boys in France, searching for buried treasure, discovered a tiny cave opening that led to a cavern full of an even greater treasure: The most magnificent works of prehistoric art that have ever been found.
Dating back more than 17,000 years, the more than 1,500 paintings and engravings of horses, bulls, deer and other animals gave vivid testimony to the life and times of the ancient humans who made them, and made that area in France, now known as Lascaux, their home.
In our world today, with its 24/7 news cycle and daily reports of strife, conflict, and chaos, it is often hard to pull your head out of the “present” and take a longer look to appreciate the passage and pages of time — events that make up a span of one’s life, that of those who have come before, and those who are following behind.
Yet it is precisely this “long view” that gives us the courage to get through these present troubles. Certainly the ancient people who lived in France long ago had their own share of daily turmoil and striving just to stay alive, and yet they took the time to create, and appreciate, amazing artwork that captured their lives — art that we modern people can still appreciate today.
In the same way, if your loved one enjoys reminiscing, take time to sit together to recall and reflect on one or more of these events from their life, how they unfolded, and what these events meant to them. If you have members of the next generation around to hear the tale, all the better.
If your loved one can no longer reminisce with you, take the lead and share with them a story they may no longer remember. If you can, include photos or other memorabilia to aid in their enjoyment, since words are more difficult for your loved one to process than objects and pictures as the Alzheimer’s progresses,
Through sharing stories of you and your loved one, you celebrate that the deep past is part of our present day, reminding us, just like ancient paintings do, that there is hope for the future.
Here are some more ideas on how to revel in someone's life story:
Keep a Daily Journal:
Journaling has shown to provide relief from grief and anger, reduce depression, improve self-care, and enhance relationships. Here’s how to encourage your loved one to start.
Finding the Joy as a Family Caregiver:
The challenge that family caregivers face is to learn acceptance, to live in the present moment, and to let go of things you cannot control. This is a challenge to be sure, but if there can be any joy in caregiving, this is where it is.
Write the Story of You!
Documenting your life story to share with your family and friends can be a great way to preserve precious memories, help family members to connect, and provide insight into family stories and culture. Here’s how to do it.
Remember, if you can’t find the information you need on our website, you can always “Ask NAN” by clicking on this link.
Best,
Rosemary D Laird, MD, MHSA
Founder and Chief Medical Officer
“Memories are the key not to the past, but to the future.”
— Douglas Pagels
