Remember that party animal who could sing every Beatle song - even when less than completely sober? How about the cool kid who hung out with friends until the wee hours talking about everything and nothing? The star athlete who won tennis trophies, skied the black diamonds, and wowed the crowds on the football or baseball field? Or the girl who sashayed into school rocking a very mini miniskirt? Or anybody saying sashayed?

You are smiling because you do remember at least some of those awesome youngsters because they were you. And yes, your kids and grandkids would fall off their chairs to hear stories of your misspent youth.

It’s true you’ve devoted the past decades honing your disguise as a parent, grandparent and all-around responsible citizen. You’ve done such a great job, your family has literally no idea who you used to be. Surely it would benefit them to get a peek behind the curtain into the younger you.

Truth be told, it can also benefit you. Studies show a walk down memory lane flexes metaphorical muscles that positively impact mind and body in a myriad of ways..

Cardiovascular Improvement

Research indicates that reminiscing may lower blood pressure and heart rates.

Enhanced Self Awareness

Remembering the good – and the bad – can bring seniors closure and clarity, giving them a keener understanding of who they are.

Reduction in Negative Emotions

Sharing memories of the past with others can promote a feeling of connection. And of course, it can produce the best medicine: Laughter.

Improved Communication Skills

Speaking about the past requires exercising our verbal skills. The more we speak, the more we create new pathways in the brain associated with communication.

Lower Stress

Reminiscing about the past can ease stress, thereby improving stress related issues like headaches, back pain, indigestion, heart palpitations, poor concentration and irritability.

Empowerment

Recalling our past can trigger new self-esteem. As we highlight our accomplishments, and contributions to family and community, we are reminded of our value as individuals

Confidence Boosting

Remembering the challenges of the past, and how we overcame them, can renew our conviction that we can handle the obstacles facing us in the present. Hearing our stories of struggle and triumph can be confidence building for younger family members.

Embracing Family History

Passing on your stories preserves family history and serves as a bridge between generations.

Ready. Set. Remember

Sharing your memories with loved ones will not only give them insight into your wealth of experiences, it can also be quality time that generates meaningful dialogue. Here is some inspiration to get the conversational ball rolling.

Photo Albums are a Great Visual Aid

Grab the kids and the old photo albums and before you know it, you’ll be off and running down memory lane. If you are not as organized with your photos as you’d like to be, this is a great chance to find that dusty box of prints and get the kids to help you create albums they can keep.

Record Your Memories

Companies like Artifacts will help you record your stories for posterity. They provide interviewers and editors to assist with the finished product. It’s a great support tool for those who might need assistance recording and sharing thoughts in a coherent, entertaining way.

Share Memories with Your Family

Invite the family to your favorite scenic park. Give them a list of pointed questions to get the conversation about your life started.

For example:

  • What was your favorite game to play as a child?
  • Can you share a fond memory from your school days?
  • Who was your best friend growing up, and what adventures did you have together?
  • Did you have any special traditions or rituals in your family?
  • What was your first job, and what lessons did you learn from it?
  • How did you meet your spouse or partner?
  • What was the music scene like when you were in your twenties?
  • Can you describe a significant milestone or accomplishment from your young adulthood?
  • What were your aspirations or dreams for the future when you were in your twenties?
  • Do you know any stories about our ancestors that have been passed down through generations?
  • Are there any traditions or customs in our family that originated from our ancestors?
  • Can you recall any memorable family gatherings or reunions from your youth?
  • What was your favorite book or movie growing up, and why?
  • Do you have a favorite recipe that has been passed down in the family?
  • How do you think the world has changed since you were younger, and what lessons can we learn from the past?

Share Your Memories with Your Friends at Overture

The years may have, how shall we say,slightly resculpted your exterior, but your inner self is as ready to rock as ever.  At Overture’s premier senior living apartments, you’ll be surrounded by active adults who remember the Beatles - and those mini skirts - like it was yesterday.

Book a tour today. A warm and welcoming community is waiting to share old memories - and make new ones - with you.