Innovative activity 6: The Power of the Story

This activity is a really great one that is simple and doesn't need a lot of materials. Each person brings a personal item that is specific to them and they get to share about themselves and why their object is special to them. Depending on your goals as a CTRS, you can have themed days, where their item has to be related to a certain topic, or it can be totally random. (Be sure to send them a message or email the day before, so the participants remember to bring their item.) This item could be anything. It could be a favorite blanket or a teacup from their grandma. Also, the intimacy/level of the group is insignificant because this activity could really help a group get to know each other.

A few questions to prompt discussion:

• Why did they choose it?
• What special memory does it elicit for them?
• What is its significance given your topic?

The Power of the Story could be used with almost any adult group, but would be really neat for people with Alzheimer's. It could help them remember things from the past and it would stretch their cognitive abilities. One part of remembering is thinking of a memory in your head, but when you have to explain it to somebody else, there is planning and strategic thinking involved. It's important to note that this activity might bring up hard/painful memories. Know how to positively direct the conversation towards what they've learned even in the hard times. Not only would this be good for them emotionally and cognitively, but it would be a chance for them to socialize with others. They would learn how to listen to people speak, and they would need to take turns while talking. The therapeutic benefits of this game are numerous.

http://adulted.about.com/od/icebreakers/qt/powerofstory.htm