RECENT POSTS
Do you remember? October 21, 2020
All Things in Moderation October 01, 2020
Who is Your Family? September 23, 2020
LifeBio Granted Certification September 17, 2020
Do you remember?
Memories matter. They help us remember and keep alive those who may no longer be active parts of our lives. They may allow us to honor the memory of loved ones who have passed away. They help us share our own legacy, so that others will remember us and our spirit. They help pass down our culture and traditions. They more deeply connect us with other people. They are part of us and can show how we think and what we value. Memories are worth remembering.
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All Things in Moderation
It’s likely that at some point we have all been warned to be mindful of too much of a good thing. A piece of pie tastes delicious, while eating half a pie in one sitting is bad for the waistline and could likely bring a stomachache. Exercise is good, but overdoing it could cause pain or even things like muscle strain or injury. Time with a loved one can be precious, although sometimes too much time with just one person starts too feel like just that—too much.
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Who is Your Family?
When you think about your family, who do you think of? Take just a moment to clear your mind and think about your own family. Do you think about your extended family or only your more immediate family? Perhaps you are married and have children that first come to your mind. Maybe you are in the empty-next stage and you now think about grandchildren or even great-grandchildren. Do you think back to your immediate family growing up, possibly including parents and siblings? Do you recall grandparents, aunts, and uncles? What about cousins, nieces, and nephews? Does your family include any half-siblings or adoptive family members? Do you have stepparents, stepchildren, or in-laws that are family? Do you limit family to those you are related to biologically, or do you also include friends and chosen family members? Do you include pets when you talk about your family?
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LifeBio Granted Certification
We are pleased to announce that National Women’s Enterprise Business Certification has been granted to LifeBio. The Women’s Business Enterprise National Council (WBENC) is the largest certifier of women-owned businesses in the United States. WBENC is also a leading advocate for women business owners and entrepreneurs. They believe diversity promotes innovation, opens doors, and creates partnerships that fuel the economy. WBENC provides certification standards for women-owned businesses and the tools to help them succeed. Congratulations to Beth Sanders, LifeBio Founder and CEO!
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Current Events
“Row, row, row your boat, gently down the stream! Merrily, merrily, merrily, merrily, life is but a dream!” sings the well-known children’s song. It makes life sound so cheerful and easy. In real life though, do you ever feel like you are rowing up stream? Does your boat ride ever seem a little choppier, so also a little less gleeful?
Perhaps this year has felt that way for you. There have been so many things happening in 2020 that can make it seem like the current is flowing against us. The COVID-19 pandemic, a struggling economy, and racial tensions would be enough of a deluge on their own. Then things like wildfires, killer hornets, delaying of events like the Olympics, U.S. presidential campaigning, and hurricanes have also rained down. Now for large sections of the population, heading back to school looks different this year—whether that means meeting online, a hybrid of online and in person, or in person but having to wear a mask and socially distance. In 2020, the water seems to be raging, and many people are wondering when is the tide going to change?
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Happy National Dog Day!
Since its inception in 2004, National Dog Day has been celebrated annually on August 26th. It was founded by Colleen Paige, an animal welfare advocate and a dog trainer. The intent of such a day was to bring more awareness to the number of dogs that need rescued from public shelters, pure breed rescues, and other pet rescues each year. Now, thanks to social media posts and being adopted into New York legislation in 2013, National Dog Day has grown in recognition and popularity. It is a day to celebrate all kinds of dogs—whether family pets, working dogs, foster dogs, purebred, mixed breads, or mutts. Many people use the day to recognize the dogs that put their lives on the line each day to do things like protect their homes and families, serve with law enforcement, and work as guide and companion dogs helping people living with disabilities.
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Music to Your Soul
Have you ever woken up in the morning with a song already running through your head? Or do you ever get an earworm that stays with you for much of the day? Does music move you throughout your day or even throughout life? What type of music brings a smile to your face? What are some of your favorite songs? Who are some of your favorite musicians? Do you have certain songs that bring back happy memories—maybe a song from your childhood, the first song you learned to play on an instrument, a song from a concert you attended, the song you danced to at your wedding, a song you sang to your children, or an uplifting song that reminds you of a powerful movie?
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Go for the Gold!
What an event the Olympics Games are! Picture Olympics past that you have watched. Envision the lighting of the torch from its eternal flame in Olympia, Greece, and then being transported around the world to that year’s host country. Can you recall past Opening Ceremonies and the unique ways in which the torch was lit, such as when it was ignited by an arrow in Barcelona in 1992, or when Muhammad Ali lit the torch in Atlanta in 1996? Have you been impressed by the grandeur of Opening Ceremonies with the costumes and cultural displays? Imagine cheering on your country’s athletes in sporting events. Do you enjoy hearing triumphant stories of overcoming adversity, which might even make you root for the underdog (like the 1980 Miracle ice hockey game, the 1988 Jamaican bobsled team, or Eddie the Eagle)? Has your heart ever swollen with pride watching a medals ceremony with the playing of a winning country’s national anthem? Do you enjoy the recaps shared during Closing Ceremonies, as smiling athletes prepare to return home?
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The Dog Days of Summer
When you hear about the “dog days of summer,” what do you think of? Perhaps as a child you found the phrase curious. Did you ponder if it meant that on those days, humans felt like dogs, preferring to lie around panting from the heat? Or maybe you wondered if something happened to dogs in the heat, so it was a warning to keep dogs away from hot pavement? Did you think they were they called dog days because kids out of school had more time to play with their dogs then? Or did you come up with some other reasoning behind the saying?
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LifeBio needs your vote!
LifeBio was recently nominated to advance in the Aging2.0 and Louisville Healthcare CEO Council Global Innovation Search competition. WE NEED YOUR SUPPORT now during the public voting round! Please visit http://wshe.es/Yl7IrgAW and be sure to vote for us once a day, every day through July 31. The highest ranked companies will get to compete in the Virtual Pitch Event in August. More information about the competition can be found at www.aging2.com/gis.
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Emotional Wellness- Part 1 of 2
What is Emotional Wellness?
Emotional Wellness allows people to accept how they are feeling. Based upon that awareness, they can begin to understand why they are feeling that way. Then they can determine how to act in response to their feelings. Having emotional wellness allows a person to express their feelings more freely. Acceptance of one’s emotions affects a person’s ability to effectively manage through challenges and changes in life. Emotional wellness is the foundation upon which we build a quality life.
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The Rocking Chair Test
What to do? Oh, what to do? Have you ever thought to yourself, “What should I do?” Have you ever stopped to question, “How should I respond? What do I say?” Or maybe you have asked, “What is the right thing to do in this instance?” Perhaps you have pondered, “What next?” Have you ever been faced with a decision in which it was difficult to decide which path to take?
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How to Avoid Cognitive Decline
Do you ever walk into a room and suddenly cannot remember why you went there in the first place? Have you ever been talking and mid-sentence you draw a blank as to what you were going to say next? Do you ever misplace simple everyday items, such as your eyeglasses or keys? Are you ever left tongue-tied trying to think of the word you want to say, while you know the meaning you want to convey but the word just isn’t coming to you?
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We Remember...
Memorial Day is about so much more than just a day off work. It is not just about family fun, long-weekend getaways, or barbecues with friends. It is much more meaningful than just welcoming the unofficial start of summer.
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What's Your Story? Let's Talk Thursdays at 11 a.m.
FREE "What's Your Story?" Group
Topic: HISTORICAL EVENTS (week 4 of 8)
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Join us! LifeBio is offering a free "What's Your Story?" conversation group with residents (and staff and family members) of retirement communities and nursing homes from coast to coast. Thursdays at 11 a.m. ET. (5/14/2020 - June 11, 2020) |
Communication Tips for Talking to People Living with Dementia and Alzheimer’s
Do you know someone living with Alzheimer’s or another form of Dementia? If so, it can be difficult to see memories and realities slipping away from our loved ones. However, that does not mean that we no longer want to engage with them. In fact, getting them to participate in conversation can help them to prolong their memories and engage their minds. It can also be an opportunity for them to feel successful, be happier, and even decrease negative health effects like feelings of depression.
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Six Questions to Ask Yourself While Isolated
Do you or a loved one spend significant time alone on any given day? Right now with the COVID-19 pandemic, most people are practicing social distancing, self-isolation, or complete quarantine. However, even during other times of the year, you or someone you know may not have a great deal of social interaction with others. For example, you may live alone. You might know someone who lives in a nursing home or who is hospitalized. Perhaps you know an introvert who chooses to be alone more than with others. Or maybe in the winter you or your family members become housebound due to weather.
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Bringing Back the WAVE During COVID-19
I live about seven minutes outside of Marysville, Ohio, a picture-perfect little town about 30 miles northwest of Columbus, Ohio, a dynamic and growing tech city.
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15 Creative Ideas To Stay Connected During Social Isolation
How can you and your loved ones stay connected during social distancing and isolation? While the world is figuring out how to live through the COVID-19 pandemic, most people are having to self-distance or isolate. Even when the pandemic ends, sometimes people are isolated (whether by choice, based on where they live, from weather, due to transportation, or otherwise). Here are 15 unique ideas for how to still CONNECT with loved ones, even while being distanced or isolated.
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LifeBio Very Detailed Tutorial with Pictures
Using LifeBio is as easy as 1, 2, 3…
That being said, if you would have any questions, problems, or need assistance with any of these steps, please contact us on our website at www.lifebio.com or via email at info@lifebio.com, or call us at 1-866-543-3246.
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Untold Stories
A Unique Story
You are special. You are a wonderful and unique individual. You are who you are because of the people, places, and events that have influenced your life. Your interpretation of those experiences creates your world view. While there are some remarkable historical events that we have shared, your part is unique to you. People want to know your story!
Remembering Our Loved Ones is Powerful and Important
I watched Google's ad called "Loretta" with great interest during the Super Bowl. It tugged at my heartstrings and probably yours as well. Why perhaps?
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LeadingAge Ohio invited me to speak with activity professionals
What a joy it was to meet these creative activity professionals from across the State of Ohio this week.
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Good friends in business make all the difference.
This week LifeBio attended the Ohio Health Care Organization.
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5 Tips for Interviewing Grandma and Grandpa
1. Don't delay and don't talk yourself out of it. It's time to capture grandma and grandpa in print, on video, via audio, or writing via the web. Grandma's life story or grandpa's life story is far more interesting than you can ever imagine. Really and truly, your own grandparents can tell you things that no one else can share.
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Personal Biography Services
YOU Are Special!
Each one of us is a wonderful, unique individual. The way in which the people, places, and events of our lives have influenced us has made us who we are today. How we interpret these events creates our world view. Even so, there are many experiences that are universal, and remarkable historical events that we have all shared. You are special - and people want to know your story!
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Keys to Successful Communication in Dementia Care
Dementia Changes People
Your loved one or resident is changing. Your once gregarious, “life of the party” spouse is now reticent and restrained. Your college educated, thoughtful father is now forgetful and impulsive. And – perhaps the hardest situation of all – your once gentle and caring mother has begun to angrily lash out at caregivers, friends, and even family. The manner in which you once communicated with these individuals is no longer effective. Comprehensive dementia care must consist of a new, inclusive way to share information with those individuals with Alzheimer’s and other memory affective disorders.
READ MOREHow to Help Someone with Metastatic Cancer
This topic is on my mind because I am thinking of two friends with metastatic cancer, and I know that everyone can think of someone facing cancer in their lives. In both cases, these two people are under the age of 50 and they have young children or children in their early years of adulthood. I suppose that's why I want to write about this because I am also at a similar phase of my life with my family. I cannot pretend to understand what these friends are going through, but I can imagine that I would be very fearful and sad to think about my children coping without me. There would be so much I would want to say now and in the future to them. He or she should be given the chance to record stories, memories, and advice. Encourage him or her to do so---it is a priceless gift and it should not be delayed. Despite very good treatment plans, it is a smart idea, whether someone is perfectly healthy or facing cancer, to capture life stories and key wisdom. They can also share the journey through treatment and document a "survivor story" too. You can help with a digital recorder or video on your phone or any other method that is convenient to you and your family and friends.
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Why to Start a Life Story Program in Senior Living, Hospice, Hospitals, or Health Care
A good life story program helps people ask the right questions to bring out the best stories and to create a strong connection with family and other loved ones. When people are reaching old age or facing a life-threatening illness, this is the ideal time to be offering a life story program.
READ MORENew Teen/Kids version of LifeBio makes its debut
We realize that children may also want to tell their life stories, and their parents find their responses fascinating. That's why www.lifebio.com now has a Kids/Teen template inside. The questions were developed by asking our own children what they would like to talk about -- school, friends, sports, favorite costumes, and just life in general.
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Software for building a social history or lifestyle assessment online
If you have been looking for a way to automate and improve the gathering of social history and lifestyle assessment data, LifeBio has a solution for you. Using LifeBio's web-based collaborative database, it is possible to load in your organization's preferred social and spiritual history templates so that electronic data can be compiled and stored privately inside LifeBio's database. This data can also be integrated between LifeBio and your preferred electronic health record system. www.lifebio.com
READ MORE3 Innovations in Memory Care for Senior Living & Health Care
Below is a roundup of some of my favorite solutions for innovations in memory care
Here is a link to more about the affordable solutions from LifeBio that work in both memory care and in senior living/health care (we feel that knowing the whole person and capturing life stories effectively is so very important---we make it simple to gather at least a simple biography on every person using the web, an app, or our Life Story Guide or our MemoryBio Photo Album for starting conversations with those who have dementia), but I am also going to suggest some of my favorite programs that are also complementary....
One Place to Store All Your Family Memories
I was talking with a friend the other day about what LifeBio does, and she said, "Do you mean that I can start a memory book for my 9-year-old son now and keep adding to it until he turns 18 and give him the book for graduation?" I said, "Yes, that's right. We know you want to tell the story of your son and capture the fun time and funny things that are said and done through the years...along with photos and videos."
READ MOREVideo recording my mom and dad using the new App
I will see my mom and dad over the Christmas holiday, and I've got to get some more video of these amazing parents. I think about all that they have lived through -- their own personal history and just history. I recall the highs and lows (that I know of) from their lives. I love being with them and just observing their mannerisms, and it is so great to hear them tell a story.
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The most important new year's resolution -- the life story
Life Stories & Connecting with Your Family is a Great New Year's Resolution
Of course, I am going to say it. As the founder of LifeBio, I am going to suggest that your New Year's Resolution be that you finally get around to helping that special loved one tell his or her life story.
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Veterans History Told -- at Home with Family
Veterans History Told to Grandchildren Matters
It was amazing to see my son, David, sitting with his grandpa recently and listening closely as my father recounted his experiences during the Vietnam War. Dad served in the 4th Infantry Division as a truck driver in 1967 and part of 1968. He shared about his tent being shot full of holes near Dak To in Kon Tum Province in late 1967, spending hours in a small bunker with 20 other guys, leading a convoy of trucks away from the fighting, blowing up his truck when he and his friend, John, hit a landmine, and enjoying Bob Hope's visit on a hillside one day. There were some funny experiences and some very scary times shared.
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Memories Book
Sometimes people are looking for a memories book for their parents or grandparents because someone is reaching old age, or facing a life-threatening illness, or experiencing memory loss or Alzheimer's Disease. These are all common reasons for wanting to create a book of memories without delay or difficulty.
READ MOREPrivate Online Journal
I've been putting pencil to paper for so many years now in numerous physical journals. Here are a few things that I love to journal about....
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Memory book for my grandma
There is nothing more priceless than the gift of life stories. I know that my own grandmother's life story really changed my life. I thought, "I'm just like you, and you are just like me!" But I would never have had that experience if grandma's life story was not recorded.
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Memory Journal
One of the very best gifts you can give a parent or grandparent for the holidays is a Memory Journal. After all, there is no one else like your mother, father, grandfather, or grandmother.
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My Biography and Your Biography
Are you considering writing a biography? If sometimes people tell you, "you should write a book" then it's probably true. You SHOULD write a book. Most people don't know where to start, but they do definitely have something to say. So where to begin?
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How to Capture Life Stories in Hospitals
How do you start capturing life stories in a hospital? Here are some reasons WHY it is a great idea and HOW it can work...
READ MOREOnly 1 million of 16 million WWII Veterans remain. Act now!
This is our last chance to gather the life stories of the World War II generation. Both veterans and their spouses have amazing memories and experiences to share without delay. Over the next few years, this is our opportunity to learn more about our parents and grandparents. These stories will be lost or forgotten if they are not recorded. Here is your chance.
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Using Biographical Data to Impact Person-Centered Care for Culture Change
What if every person had a biography? What if a resident/client could be viewed in various stages of life so that staff could see the myriad of experiences they have lived through? What difference would it make? Is it possible that capturing life stories is truly the answer to many of the problems facing assisted living providers today?
READ MORELifeBio's Hotline number is 1-866-LIFEBIO
For those in Canada or around the world, you can also reach LifeBio at 937-303-4576. Our email is info@lifebio.com. LifeBio provides life story, memory care, and programming solutions for senior living and health care providers. We have creative ways to meet the needs of those aging normally or those with mild cognitive impairment, Alzheimer's Disease, or other forms of dementia.
READ MOREFather's Day
Father's Day is coming up next month on June 15! It's always a stressful time thinking of what to get your father for this special day. He's been there for you your whole life, helping you fix things, working through problems, and supporting you through life's milestones. You want to show your appreciation for him with a special gift, but what to get him? Over the years, I've given my dad more sports memorabilia, hats, and fishing equipment than he will ever know what to do with. One memorable year I gave him a brush to clean his tires.
READ MOREImportance of Life Stories
When my grandmother died a couple of years ago, my family and I spent a couple of days going through her things to either get rid of them or keep them ourselves. As we went through her house, I found a couple of photo albums. There was a picture of her at seventeen with my grandfather right before he went off to World War Two, and there were several of her and him as teenagers sitting in a car. She was so young and beautiful, and I found myself thinking. What was she like as a teenager? How did she feel when my grandfather went off to war? Where exactly were they going in that car?
READ MOREKeep Family Stories Alive
Sharing stories encourages a closer, more meaningful relationship with your children and grandchildren. Family's stories are worth telling because you may be able to describe people, times and places that no one else in the family knows about. Lastly, you can help the next generation—inspiring, teaching and modeling strength and courage for them.
READ MOREYou're Unique!
You are unique! No one out there is exactly like you. I don't care if you have an identical twin; you are the only person in this entire world who has experienced what you've experienced, thought what you've thought, and accomplished what you've accomplished. This makes it important for you to share your life story with others! People can learn lessons from you that they couldn't from anyone else.
READ MOREHappy St. Patrick's Day
Make sure you wear green today; you might get pinched if you don't! As we celebrate St. Patrick's Day today, it's time to get our Irish pride on!
READ MORE5 Outcomes of Social and Emotional Education
When young children connect with each other to share their life stories, they get more out of it than you may think. This form of interaction gives them social and emotional education. They're learning...
READ MORECelebrate your Heritage
February is black history month! It's a month where people of African American descent can celebrate their heritage and the great accomplishments of their race. From the Emancipation Proclamation to the Civil Rights movement of 1964, there is so much to learn.
READ MORE5 Reasons Life Stories are Lost
1. You may not think anyone wants to know your life story. Sometimes, when I look back on my life I think, "Wow. I was so boring." We have to stop looking at ourselves negatively and start thinking about the fact that future generations will want to know about us. We've lived in a time that some people, especially teenagers, can't even imagine. What was life like before cell phones? You mean people actually talked to each other? However boring you think your life is, it will be endlessly fascinating to so many people, especially your children or grandchildren. You'll be surprised at how many people want to hear about the younger you.
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New Year's Thoughts
As 2013 drifts to a close, people stop and think about how the year went, and how they can make 2014 the best year of their lives. Why not make your New Year's resolution something that will last forever, and is not only fun, but easy to accomplish? It sure beats dieting or exercising.
READ MOREThe Perfect Gift
What makes a good gift? In my opinion, great gifts have these four things in common.....
READ MOREFamily Reunion Fun
Is your family reunion coming up soon? Family reunions can be a confusing and hectic mess. How is this person related to me? Do I know you? What side are you on? Here are some tools for bringing the generations together:
READ MOREGive the Gift of Memory
It seems that as people get older (or maybe not so old!) they start to realize that they really don't want anything for Christmas. When people ask me what I want for the upcoming holidays, I look at them blankly. Do I really want the latest iPhone? Or the latest technology? Do I really need a new food processor? No, of course not. In the United States, we want for nothing. What do you give someone when they really don't need anything?
READ MOREA Perfect Gift for Grandma and Grandpa
Are you always struggling for the right gift for a grandparent? Is it tough to find that perfect gift for grandma? Is your grandpa hard to shop for? Here are three ideas to get you started while also capturing the priceless gift of life stories:
READ MOREBeginning an Intergenerational Project
In this day and age, the gap between the younger and older generation is widening.Technology and customs are changing so quickly that it is making it harder and harder to relate. Doing an intergenerational project is a great way for the two generations to bond and relate a little more.
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Check out the If You Died Guide -- the record your family needs for household, legal, financial, medical
Use the code lifebio10 to get $10.00 off
http://www.ifyoudiedguide.com/our-products.html
The If You Died Guide is the ultimate one life/one record resource. It summarizes in one written document, or electronically on your computer, all of the important matters of your daily life - household, legal, and financial.
READ MOREDiscovery of a Lifetime
Watch this incredible story from GrowingBolder.com about a woman who discovered her father's letters and realized what he and his family had endured during World War II. She was touched by both the war in Europe and Asia. This is an amazing story. Let this inspire you to pursue your own family history and the stories behind the people you love--while you have the chance.
READ MORELifebio is for Everyone
Whether you're thinking about telling and sharing your own life story, or you've always wanted to write a book, LifeBio can help you take that first step. Lifebio moves you step-by-step through the autobiography process, making it simple and fun to write down you're life story.
READ MORE2013 Best Gift Ideas for Seniors (Great Gifts for Financial Advisors and Estate Attorneys to Give to Clients)
Here are three great gift ideas for seniors:
1) A LifeBio.com Membership allows seniors or their family members to have a step-by-step process to record life stories. You can even use it with people who are experiencing memory loss -- to capture what matters most before it is too late.
http://secure.lifebio.com/p/24/lifebio-membership-gift-certificate-one-time-fee
Visit us at the AARP Life @ 50 Conference in Atlanta
There will be 3 opportunities to connect with LifeBio at the AARP Conference this coming week.
1) LifeBio will have a VERY engaging exhibit showing the new LifeBio Studio app. Come by and start video recording your biography. It's easier than ever to use video with the webcam in the iPad....and LifeBio's process and questions guiding you every step of the way!
READ MOREBecome a Sponsor or Advertiser on www.lifebio.com
LifeBio is now accepting advertising and sponsorships from businesses that appeal to the 50+ market. Because LifeBio works with over 100 senior care and health care providers, there will be exclusive advertising available to both national and local companies who are focused in on seniors and their family or professional caregivers. Please contact us at 937-303-4574 or 937-303-4576 for more information on sponsorship/advertising pricing or email info@lifebio.com
READ MOREChoosing the Right Memory Book for You
You may be interested in a memory book for your mother, father, grandmother, or grandfather. It may be a little daunting to know what to look for in a memory book. Sometimes having some structure makes it easier to interview a parent or grandparent. Here are some things to watch for when choosing a memory book or memory journal:
READ MORE10 Activities To Do With Your Grandchildren
In this day and age, kids are so caught up in technology that you may feel like you're losing your grand kids. This doesn't have to happen, and it doesn’t mean you have to stop spending quality time with your grandchildren. There are plenty of fun activities that you and your grandchildren will enjoy! The following activities from Leah Ingram’s Suddenly Frugal: How to Live Happier and Healthier for Less, can help you reconnect and develop a better relationship with your grandchildren:
READ MOREWhat If Everyone Had an Autobiography?
This is a unique time in history. Every man and woman has a voice. Their thoughts and opinions can be expressed for the world to read like never before. Everyone can easily have at least 15 minutes of fame. Now here's a revolutionary thought. What if everyone had an autobiography? What if you didn't have to be rich, famous, or unnaturally brilliant to have your own 50-page or 100-page book of stories, memories, life lessons, and values? Imagine the impact that your life story could have on the life of your family or friends. Imagine that loved ones aren't just left with a short obituary and a tombstone
READ MOREThe Gift of an Autobiography
It may be an uncommon gift, but why not give your children and grandchildren your autobiography? Only about 6% of Americans leave a legacy behind them. Too few, too little, too late. Think about all the knowledge and stories that are lost!
READ MOREYour Personal Trainer for Personal History
Today I was thinking about the ways that LifeBio helps our clients say what matters most to the people they love. I thought about how our questions and online template motivates people to actually create an autobiography...and that anyone can write a book with the help of LifeBio's structure and questions. So I thought to myself, "We're the personal trainer for personal history!"
READ MORERecording Biographies for People with Alzheimer's
Recording the biographies of people with with Alzheimer's or another form of dementia is an incredibly important process. Some of these memories will be lost forever, and someday your recordings will be all that is left. Here are some helpful tips to make the biography of your loved one as special as possible.
READ MOREStorytelling and Reminiscence Therapy
People with memory problems such as dementia or alzheimers benefit greatly from life review activities and processes. The recording of these memories is important for maintaining meaninful connection and communication. This needs to be recorded before its too late- too often, these memories are lost before anyone has written them down. We need to be able to walk in their shoes so that we can understand them and help them now and in the future. The person will make more sense if they are deeply known by everyone around them.
READ MOREHow to Write an Autobiography
Beginning your autobiography could be a scary task. Sometimes, it's hard to know where to even start. Lifebio has the best autobiography template on the web.
READ MOREInterviewing Grandma and Grandpa
Starting the process of interviewing your grandparents may be a daunting process. How do I even begin? What should I say? Here are 5 tips to get you started on this fun adventure.
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Why Reminisce?
Activity directors for retirement communities and nursing homes may hold back from planning reminisce activities or programs. This shouldn't happen. Reminiscing is beneficial to both the participant and the interviewer.
READ MOREMental health in nursing
Mental health is of growing interest for health insurers, hospitals, assisted living, and memory care units. www.lifebio.com is one excellent care management intervention and a social model for building a biography, especially for older adults.
READ MORE4 Tips for Using Life Stories in Senior Living
Creating life stories in senior living is an excellent idea because it helps meet the many needs of your community.
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Memory Journal: The best memory book
If you are looking for a great memory book to chronicle life stories, look no further than the Memory Journal from LifeBio.
READ MORELeaving Behind an Ethical Will
What is an Ethical Will?
Ethical wills are a way to share your love with family and friends. It is a heartfelt letter describing what matters most to you in your life. Unlike a Last Will and Testament, an ethical will is NOT a legal document. It describes the treasures of your heart, and passes on life lessons, values, beliefs, prayers, hopes and dreams for future generations.
Writing Your Autobiography
Have you been saying to yourself "How do I write my autobiography?" with no idea how to go about writing it? With the write template, it can actually be a very simple and fun process. Here are some ideas to get you started.
READ MORENot Telling Your Life Story- What is Lost?
We've discussed how important telling your life story is, and three things that are gained when you enjoy them with your family. But what is lost when you don't share them? What happens if your stories sit bottled up inside of you, never allowed to be shared?
READ MOREWhy Should You Tell Your Life Story?
Many people wonder why they should tell their life story. Just as many people don't share it at all, and make up excuses as to why they don't. "No one cares about my life story." "They think it's boring." "My children know enough about me already." The truth is, sharing your life story is very important to you and your family.
READ MOREIntergenerational Programs for Teenagers
Teens are always looking for new and exciting community service projects. Why not have them connect with the older generation by interviewing people at nursing homes, senior centers, or other places? They can learn communication skills while becoming closer to a generation that might not understand them as well as they'd like.
READ MORECreating a Memory Book for Alzheimer's Patients
Memory loss can be a challenge for you and your loved ones. Making a memory book can greatly benefit the person with memory loss, as well as their caregiver. Many Alzheimer's Association chapters recommend doing this.
READ MORELifeBio integrates with Facebook to enable sharing
LifeBio just added a new Share button that will allow the biography platform's questions and an individual's answers to be posted to Facebook. Now grandparents and parents may enjoy passing along their memories, wisdom, and values as they proceed through LifeBio's step-by-step process to create a full biography.
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Saving Your Family's Stories: Why It Matters
#familyhistory #genealogy #lifestories
Volunteer programs for hospice volunteers
One of the challenges that hospices face is finding a simple to manage way of promoting engagement between #hospice #volunteers and clients. One of the best ways for people to connect is through life stories. "Tell me about your life" is such a simple but profound question to ask. However, it is sometimes difficult to answer because life is complex and there are so many aspects to cover. For those in hospice care, time is of the essence to tell the story--in his/her own words--before it may be too late. So hospice volunteers can play a vital role in asking the right questions to bring out the rich stories that older adults and really people of ages can share.
READ MOREMemory cues for Alzheimer's patients
One of the key outcomes of gathering life stories from a person with early-stage Alzheimer's Disease or the outcome of gathering life stories by interviewing a close family member to the client with Alzheimer's Disease is....having the essential memory cues to continue to connect and have meaningful conversation.
READ MOREThe Experiential Model of Care -- Gathering the Life Story is Step 1
"Nonpharmacological Interventions Key To Model"
"The essential element in making the experiential model work is transforming the mindset of the residence’s staff from a medical/institutional viewpoint to one that prioritizes building meaningful relationships with each resident and partnering with the resident in each caregiving event and activity of the day.
READ MOREImproving Mental Health in Long Term Care and Hospitals Using Reminiscence Therapy
Health insurers are increasingly being measured for their ability to improve or maintain #mentalhealth. With the growth of #accountable care organizations, the five star quality ratings, and the coming together of insurers, hospitals, physician groups, and senior care providers, it is important to note that health insurers have a key measurement from Medicare to improve or maintain mental health of patients.
READ MOREGathering Memories for a Grandparent's Birthday
Have you ever wanted to pull together a memory book with just stories, and memories, and photos to give to a grandma or grandpa for an important birthday? How 'bout a memory book for your parents' or grandparents' anniversary? Maybe it's a 90th birthday. Maybe it is a 50th wedding anniversary. It's always been a lot of work to trade emails back and forth to pull together a group's photos and memories for these special events. Also, you may have wanted a low cost way of doing it so that everyone can just print out the document or you can email them a PDF of the memory book.
READ MOREA nurse teaches hospice nurses as she lays dying
Amazing story of a woman who decides to help others learn about the process of death and cancer...as she goes through it every day.
READ MORE
5 Tips for Writing an Autobiography
Have you been saying to yourself, "How do I write my biography?" Here's some ideas to get you started.
READ MOREReminiscence Therapy for People with Dementia
Consider using reminiscence therapy with people who have Alzheimer's Disease or other forms of dementia. Many long-term memories are still intact.
READ MOREWhen You Need Help..LifeBio Phone Interviews to the Rescue
LifeBio's Phone Interview service is becoming more popular as families realize that they WANT the biography of a parent, grandparent, aunt, or uncle recorded, but they don't seem to have the time or there are other reasons why they would rather not be the one asking the life story questions.
READ MOREThey Know Me. They Remember Who I Am.
“They know me,” she says proudly when we sit down to talk. “They remember who I am.”
As I meet and visit with people with memory loss, it is apparent that there is great comfort in being deeply known. We all want to be known and remembered by the people around us each day. We want to be reminded that our lives have significance and meaning. We have things to contribute.
READ MOREBio Book
free lite memberships now at www.lifebio.com If you're looking to create a biobook that contains life stories and memories, you'll want to check out the new www.lifebio.com . "What do I get for my grandma for Christmas?" you might ask. "How can I tell the life story of my grandpa, my grandma, my mother, or my father?" LifeBio makes it easy.
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LifeBio is 2012 TechColumbus Innovations Award Semi-Finalist
LifeBio is a 2012 Innovation Awards Semi-Finalist in the Innovative Product category! Our thanks to TechColumbus for sponsoring this exciting event in February. Hopefully we'll win the category!
READ MORE5 Tips for Choosing Reminiscence Therapy Software
Here are a few points to think about as you're investigating reminiscence therapy software.
1) Is it web-based for easy access on all types of PCs, iPads, and other online devices? With family, volunteers, and staff helping to collect memories, it's great to have a private, secure online account where the information can be stored. 128-bit encrypted sites are a very good idea.
Reminiscence Therapy Has Many Benefits
Reminiscence therapy has been studied for many years in various settings. It can certainly be used in senior living, nursing homes, assisted living, adult day settings, and home and community-based services.
READ MORENew LifeBio.com debuts just in time for the holidays
LifeBio is pleased to announce the launch of www.lifebio.com with a fresh new look and a simplified approach to capturing life stories, everyday moments, and family history with ease.
READ MORELifeBio Testimonials - Great Reasons to Reminisce
We have successfully integrated LifeBio's storytelling, story capturing and story making into the fabric of Edgewater’s being. You challenged me to make it more than just an add-on activity---make it the cornerstone of our programming---and we did and it is working! J Thank you for giving me such a wonderful product to use to build community with and to make people happier and healthier....It is truly wonderful. - Dawn, Director of Lifestyle Services, Edgewater
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3 tips to make I Care Plans happen simply and systematically
With great emphasis on person-centered care and patient-centered care, LifeBio has now added a new "About Me" format to its online biography system that generates I Care Plans. This About Me short bio creates a personalized I Care Plan document that captures background, activity preferences, and lifestyle preferences. Here are three tips for creating an excellent I Care Plan.
READ MORELifeBio Launch - Capturing Veteran's Stories Made Easy Just in Time for Veteran's Day
LifeBio Launch - Capturing Veteran’s Stories Made Easy Just in Time for Veteran's Day
LifeBio captures life stories and promotes better health through reminiscence. The Veteran's Story is a new "chapter" within www.lifebio.com, creating a veteran's life story without delay
READ MORELifeBio.com gets a facelift just in time for the holidays
Take a look at the NEW www.lifebio.com -- click the SIGNUP button to give it a try. Take a free trial. #Interview a grandparent or a parent. Tell your own love story, travel story, graduation, or baby story. Write a full biography about older members in your family.
READ MOREReminiscence therapy: How it works
Reminiscence therapy is used in health care and senior care communities, especially in skilled nursing and memory care. It is also used routinely in speech therapy with older adults. It is effective for connecting with past memories and experiences to build connections and to enhance relationships.
READ MOREBest web-based journal that you can easily print out
If you've wanted to get away from your paper journals but you also wanted to still be able to print out what you wrote, LifeBio has the answer. Inside your www.lifebio.com account is the ability to freeform journal. The coolest thing is you can Preview/Print out your journal
READ MOREWriting an Autobiography: 3 Tips to Make it Easier
Are you staring at a blank piece of paper or a blank computer screen? You know you have something to say but where should you start? Thinking back on your life story....there is a lot to remember along the way. It is hard to do it without some sort of structure to guide you. Here are 3 tips to get the creative juices flowing from www.lifebio.com
READ MORENational Grandparents Day 2012
Celebrate your grandparents' by helping them start a life story! Capture what matters most without delay. They have wisdom and values to pass along to the next generation.
READ MORECognitive Treatment and Reminiscence Therapy
For speech and occupational therapy providers, there is the opportunity to use reminiscence in delivery of cognitive treatment (97532) in a systematic and organized way.
READ MORECreative Marketing Ideas for Financial Advisors
If you've been debating some new and creative marketing ideas for your financial advisor practice, we'd like to suggest a few options that will appeal to older adults and their family members.
READ MOREHow to Tell a Veteran's Life Story
If your parent or grandparent or other loved one served in World War II, Korea, Vietnam, or even later in Iraq or Afghanistan, it could be time to help him or her record life stories. Veterans have a unique story to tell so it takes a special biography template for veterans to help them accomplish this goal.
READ MOREThe best autobiography template
If you're seeking an easy way to create your own biography, it is key to cover the important topics of any life story. It all starts with the people who shaped you. Your parents, your grandparents, your siblings, and other relatives (aunts, uncles, cousins) who have been part of your life.
READ MORE20 questions to ask your parents or grandparents
For a long time, LifeBio had a longer biography process with up to 250 questions. But over time people asked us, "What are some key questions I could ask" my mother, my father, my grandmother, my grandfather, or other people in my life?
READ MORECreate a Family Cookbook in a PDF
Pull together some of your family's favorite recipes in a family cookbook using LifeBio.com. You can tell the story and the tradition behind why you make certain things at the holidays or anytime of year. Include pictures of your loved ones eating your favorite foods too!
READ MORECreate a Baby Book in a PDF
One the greatest features of LifeBio is the ability to create a baby book with memories and photos and stories--. You can then print it in a PDF file--you don't have to use photo book software and order a hardcover book (but you can do that too with LifeBio). Within minutes you can start building a baby book, preview it in a PDF format, and then print it out on your own.
READ MORE3 Ideas for National Assisted Living Week 2012
Prepare now for National Assisted Living Week --- September 9-15, 2012. The 2012 theme is "Arts for the Ages".
Think of the incredibly rich lives of older adults. One "artful" way to fit into the theme and do something incredibly meaningful would be to work reminiscence into your programming that week. Ideas abound! Here are some excellent ideas for wellness and for person-centered care efforts too...
READ MOREOnline gifts for grandma, book gifts for grandma
Probably the very best gift you could get from your grandma is her life story. You want to know what happened before you were born. You'd like to see her as a whole person, right? Here are 3 ideas for book gifts for the holidays or really anytime....
READ MOREMemory Journal - how to write an autobiography
If you are interested in writing an autobiography, the Memory Journal contains 35 main topics and over 250 biography questions. The best part is it can be transferred to www.lifebio.com to complete a hardcover leather-bound edition to give to your family and friends.
READ MOREWhat is lifelogging?
What is lifelogging? "The continuous capture of a large part of your life" according to Alexandra Carmichael.
Lifelogging can mean wearing a video capture device around your neck or using a technology device or website to record what you did today -- maybe every minute or every hour of the day.
Free 14-day Trial -- now available at LifeBio.com
Sign up for free at www.lifebio.com You can begin a complete biography, tell a Travel Story, or start journaling daily life, and much more!
READ MOREHow to save family stories
If you're concerned about saving and sharing family stories, you are not alone. The growth of the photo book industry, scrapbooking, and Ancestry.com are all signs that many people care about capturing what matters most from their own life experiences, their parents' lives, and their grandparents lives too. Photos don't tell the whole story. Genealogy is so incredibly interesting---keep in mind there is a whole life story behind every person in that family tree (and most of it wasn't recorded in the past). So there is a better way.
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Welcome to the NEW LifeBio.com
The new LifeBio.com is live! Now you can create a biography, a short "chapter" of life like a travel story, and keep a daily journal using LifeBio's private and secure memory-capture platform. Share what you want to share or keep things private. Even upload family history documents for safe storage.
READ MOREAlternatives to Photo Books
If you think that a caption is never enough to tell the whole story....
If you think a picture is worth 1,000 words...
If you think that photobooks are not giving you enough leeway...
If you're tired of always needing to order a hardcover book....
3 Activities for Family Reunions
Is your family reunion coming up soon? Maybe it's time to bring the generations together for some great conversations. Here are tools at your fingertips.
READ MOREWrite your life history mylifestory
Beyond #genealogy, your life history is something that people will want to know 100 years from now. I am related to Richard Warren of the Mayflower (but it is estimated that 14 million other Americans are too). I am also related to my great-grandfather from the Downer line
READ MOREThe right questions bring out the best stories
How can we know the ones we love better? By asking the right questions. www.lifebio.com
READ MORECaringRoad connects caregivers in the local area
This is a great website for family caregivers. Wonderful resources and an easy way to connect with other people going through the same things that you are as a caregiver.
READ MORE3 Reasons Why Therapeutic Reminiscence Works
For years, LifeBio has worked to develop the right therapeutic reminiscence methods to use in health care settings. These approaches to capture life stories have been used in senior living, long-term care, assisted living, and memory care. LifeBio has also been deployed successfully in hospices, hospitals, and in senior centers, adult day centers, home care settings, and libraries. There are a number of reasons why I believe reminiscence is so therapeutic.
READ MOREThe Value of a Veteran's Life Story
The #lifestories of #veterans are stories of courage, tragedy, adventure, and love too. These stories teach us. We learn history. We learn lessons to help us live our lives better. We see the strength it took for you to make it through. It is an inspiration to us. It's also a warning to us that life is not easy--we are all going to face difficult times ahead, and we must be ready to do what we must do.
READ MOREDementia activities, dementia therapy
If you are seeking excellent activities and curriculum for memory care, LifeBio provides a methodology for people to reminisce using the MemoryBio system (either on the web or via the "MemoryBio Photo Album"). Answers to questions and comments made are recorded in the MemoryBio Journal which can document one person's answers or a group of people's answers.
READ MOREThis is my life
Creating memory books for people with or without memory loss is a wonderful thing in retirement communities or in health care settings. We like the fact that EVERYONE can be part of LifeBio from independent living, assisted living, skilled nursing, or memory care. With or without memory loss, everyone has a story to tell.
READ MOREHow do I tell my grandma's life story?
That's the question I asked myself. I started by asking my mother about the stories that my grandmother always shared so I could start my interview off in a good way. I asked about her childhood and heard about the first time she tasted a new thing called Jello and the first time she saw an airplane. She told me about HER grandmother and her parents. I felt a new connection with these older generations in my family
READ MOREBiography template on the web
Have you been saying to yourself, "How do I write my biography?" Here's some ideas to get you started.
1) Talk about the people. The people who shaped your life are going to be an important part of your story. Parents, grandparents, siblings, close aunts and uncles....these are people worth writing about.
READ MORE5 Tips for Using Reminiscence in Health Care and Hospice
Consider starting a life stories program in health care settings or hospice care for a number of reasons.
1) Reminiscence impacts all dimensions of wellness -- especially the emotional, spiritual, intellectual, and social aspects. Even the physical dimension is touched with reports of lowered pain and increased brain activity.
How do I interview my parents or grandparents? Good question.
1. Don't delay and don't talk yourself out of it. It's time to capture grandma, grandpa, your mother, or father in print, on video, via audio, or writing via the web. Grandma's life story or grandpa's life story is far more interesting than you can ever imagine. Really and truly, your own grandparents can tell you things that no one else can share.
READ MORE5 tips for writing an autobiography
Here's some great ways to get started with writing your autobiography or even writing a biography of a loved one.
1) Talk about the people. The people who shaped your life are going to be an important part of your story. Parents, grandparents, siblings, close aunts and uncles....these are people worth writing about.
If I die app for Facebook
At LifeBio, we know people aren't sure where to start. What should that last message look like and say? We're not surprised to see the concept of an ethical will make its way into Facebook with the If I Die app. You can record a video or a message that will be played after your gone.
READ MOREChristmas memories worth capturing
It was 1977 in Erie, Pennsylvania. I was eight years old, and I was looking forward to many things that Christmas.
READ MORERemembering Pearl Harbor
Speech by President Franklin Delano Roosevelt in his Address to the Nation
READ MOREWakeup Startup at The Ohio State University
Here's a few shots from the presentation at Wakeup Startup #wakeupstartup at The Ohio State University -- a great opportunity to explain LifeBio to a group of potential investors. There was great energy in the room!
READ MOREDear Dad...and to veterans in my family and to veterans everywhere
I just got back from a Veterans Day event in Marysville, Ohio--the 7th graders did a wonderful job honoring our veterans. This is a day to celebrate and to remember. As I sit here in comfort and security, I am so thankful for all #veterans who have made my freedom, my country, and this good life possible. Let's start with my great-great-great-great-great (and more) grandfather, Abraham Mosier who enlisted in 1775 in the Revolutionary War.
READ MOREBest holiday gifts 2012 for grandma and grandpa
Are you always struggling for the right gift for a grandparent? Is it tough to find that perfect gift for grandma? Is your grandpa hard to shop for? Here are three ideas to get you started while also capturing the priceless gift of life stories:
READ MOREFinancial Advisor Client Gifts for under $20
Because you care about helping people create a financial legacy, you can also help them with a family legacy too. Capturing life stories is a need that many older people have, and as a financial planner you can provide a client gift that keeps on giving. Here are a few great holiday gift ideas to capture a legacy:
READ MORESeptember 11 memories from an everyday mom from Ohio
I was on my way to work in Hilliard, Ohio when I heard about the plane hitting the north tower. The TV was on as I arrived to work and we all watched in horror as the second plane hit the south tower. We wondered if there was any way to rescue people off the roof by helicopter, but soon it became apparent that this was a situation where rescue may be impossible. People were waving from the windows; people were jumping from the windows. We could see the flames licking at the back of people's necks as they had to make the terrible decision to burn or to jump.
READ MORETrue Colors lyrics -- beautiful song. There's no one else like YOU.
True Colors
By Cyndi Lauper
How to capture the life stories of veterans
For a Veterans Day activity or to honor the special veterans in your life, consider helping men and women document their life stories. There is no more priceless gift than to preserve the uniqueness of a person's life experiences.
READ MOREPat Summitt - work continues with support
I applaud Pat Summitt for her decision to disclose that she has early-onset Alzheimer's disease. She will continue to work as a basketball coach.
READ MORELifeBio Iphone App
We're working on our mobile application. Probably by later in the fall or early 2011 this will be ready to go. All we can say is that it will be cool, and it will match the coolness of LifeBio's new features launching soon!
READ MORELifeBio's 7 Tips for Intergenerational Programming
1. Keep the experience short and simple (at least at first). Youth today are very busy in after-school activities so they won’t have a lot of extra time on their hands. However, once they try something simple in an intergenerational program, some will get “hooked” and become your most reliable volunteers in the long run (and maybe future employees too!). Try different things to see what works best for you.
READ MORESt. Anne Home implements LifeBio technology
New technology at St. Anne Home will soon allow residents to write their own life stories.
Justin Meyer said the facility is utilizing resources offered by LifeBio.com. The resources help people write their life’s stories by organizing their lives into chapters, ultimately producing a personalized keepsake book.
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Health benefits of journaling
Writing can have a big impact on physical symptoms from arthritis to asthma to PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder) and depression.
READ MORELost Generation - video from AARP
This is just incredible....watch it all the way to the end.
READ MORERethinking Reminiscence: we all lose when memories are lost or forgotten
As we work with health care organizations, retirement living, hospitals, adult day centers, senior centers, home care agencies, and libraries, it has become abundantly clear why it is, indeed, the right time to be capturing life stories more.
READ MOREElderhood Rising: The Dawn of a New World Age
Dr. Bill Thomas brillantly talks about ageism, the dominance of adulthood in our society, and why aging is going to save us." Aging is going to work a piece of magic on our society.
READ MOREHeading to Minnesota for a celebration of veterans' stories prior to Memorial Day
GracePointe Crossing 'Celebrating America with Veterans' Stories
Adult day program ideas for retirement communities
Independent living residents are moving into communities for a variety of reasons, but one reason is because one or both of them is/are experiencing mild cognitive impairment or Alzheimer's Disease.
READ MORENursing home send 1000 cranes to Japan
Read how St. John's Home in Rochester, New York is sending good will to their friends in Japan.
READ MOREReasons to write an autobiography
YOU are unique. Every life is a collection of the many people, places and adventures experienced.
READ MOREGeneration Alzheimer's sheds light on a crisis, motivates us to act
This year, the first wave of baby boomers are turning 65 – and with increased age comes increased risk of developing Alzheimer's disease.
READ MOREStandUp Gardens are cool. Flower power.
On occasion, I see a product that is over-the-top wonderful. That would be the StandUp Gardens that are made for a variety of community settings or at home. With spring upon us, this is a good time to start thinking about planting.
READ MOREI'm tired of the word "facility" used to describe a community.
I hope that the institutional language will finally disappear. I hope I never live in any place called a "facility". I know people hate the term nursing home too, but "facility" makes me think of prison. Maybe this is why. Listen as Gary Mohr, Ohio Department of Corrections Director, describes prisons as "facilities" many times during this interview....
READ MOREGreat gift ideas for Mother's Day 2011
If your mother or grandmother or sister or favorite aunt is hard to shop for, consider the gift of memories. Consider a Memory Gift Box or Life Story Journal or a Memory Journal from LifeBio.
READ MOREIce cream memories. Everybody has one.
What's your favorite memory of ice cream? Mine is going to Creamland on Route 20 between Erie, PA and Fairview, PA for ice cream, especially after a long hot day baling hay at the farm.
READ MOREQuick and easy ways to capture life stories
It doesn't have to be a major production or take a huge time commitment to help someone create a biography or a simple display about their life story and experiences. It doesn't have to be expensive either.
READ MOREWorking on a 94-year-old's biography tonight.
Such a beautiful tale of joys and challenges, ups and downs, and faith and hope through the years. I feel like every story becomes part of me in a wonderful way and I keep learning so much.
READ MOREStories matter.
For thousands of years, we've shared our traditions, beliefs, and values through storytelling. The stories were told around the bonfire, the campfire, and the kitchen table.
READ MOREWe are all storytellers
Truth is stranger than fiction. We gain amazing life experiences through the years. Our children and grandchildren learn through story. Don't hesitate to teach them through your true life stories.
READ MOREUnique birthday gifts for seniors
If you're really trying to find that priceless, perfect gift for the person who has everything, we now have a new offer at LifeBio that might fit the bill.
READ MOREDonate to help the Japanese people
100% of your gift will provide emergency relief and long-term recovery support for disaster-affected communities
READ MOREStatistics on Aging....That Pesky Iron Law
Dr. Bill Thomas shares demographics and how post-war generation is going to impact us in the future.
READ MOREStorytelling is making a comeback
Parents and grandparents are sometimes surprised at how much their children and grandchildren want to know when they start sharing their true life stories.
READ MOREBaby Books and Grandparents
I pulled out the baby books to see some of the adorable things I chose to record when my kids were very small. (Stay with me...In a minute, I'll tell you the connection between baby books and recording life stories.)
READ MORECreating a lasting legacy
What do you consider important to pass along to your children and grandchildren? What will you want people to remember about you and the family members who came before you?
READ MORELast WWI U.S. veteran dies -- Frank Buckles -- the end of an era
The last American doughboy has passed away, and this reminds me that there will also come a day when the last WWII veteran will pass away. With less than 2 million WWII veterans still alive today (of the 16 million who served), according to the Department of Veterans Affairs, now is the time to capture these veterans' life stories without delay.
READ MOREThe end of horse and buggy stories? Probably.
I am lamenting the loss of stories about life before cars, tractors, and electricity. In Charlotte's biography and Marie's biography (both in their mid-90s), they share about life in wagons and sleighs...no school buses back then.
READ MOREReminiscence therapy and dementia: 3 reasons why it makes a difference
1. The past is one of the best ways to connect. Long-term memories are, in many cases, very much intact. When someone has been diagnosed with Alzheimer's Disease or related dementias, it is important to capture as many details of his or her life stories as possible, as quickly as possible. It may not seem like the details matter, but they do and they will. In fact, it will be critical to delivering the best possible service and care. Because retrogenesis is believed to occur, a person with dementia may be, essentially, traveling back in time and seeing himself or herself as 50 or 40 or 20 or 10 years old. If you can know more about his or her life at these different ages, it will make communication and understanding easier.
READ MORELife stories: 3 tips for writing life stories without delay
Every life deserves a book. So how should we go about creating a life story and avoiding the dreaded blank sheet of paper?
READ MORERehab therapy and reminiscence therapy
Catrina learns a lot about Mrs. G. through reminiscing and recording her life story. Communications skills improved, individuality recognized, empathy gained, and relationships built.
READ MOREVietnam veteran shares story
Jim still has much to give---after already giving so much to our country. Wishing he was connected to youth in his local area.
READ MOREPerson-centered care won't work unless.....
health care workers truly know people and their life stories. The brief social history or even the new MDS 3.0 standards are okay, but these things are the bare minimum. The life story will need to be captured and it can happen in a variety of ways by learning more from the people themselves or by a process of involving their family members in the interview or by motivating staff to engage in a much more personal way.
READ MOREWise words about recollections
Dr. Bill Thomas of the Eden Alternative writes... "Much is made, and rightly so, of the special circumstances in which elders experience a great forgetting. We commonly refer to this as “living with dementia.” Less attention is paid, however, to how and why elders remember. Elders’ recollections are different from ordinary forms of memory…
READ MOREAdult Day Care Activities
One of the most important aspects of adult day services is providing companionship and opportunities for conversation. For people with memory loss, it is also vital to be stimulating the hippocampus area of the brain where memories are stored. Journaling groups are very possible as part of the activity program in an adult day center
READ MORESweet memories and conscious of them
When I read to my son and the dog listened too, that is a sweet memory. When my daughter practiced the same little tune on the piano over and over again, that is a sweet memory. When my husband and I sat as close as we could at dinner so our knees were touching, that is a sweet memory.
READ MOREOrphaned at 60
Annette Gonzalez describes how it feels after both of her parents passed away. "I write and speak about feeling like an 'orphan' at sixty years of age. Five months after my mother died, my father passed away. Sharing my experiences as a daughter, caregiver, wife and mother hopefully will help others who are grieving over the loss of their parent."
READ MOREAll the Lonely People
In a recent survey, 43 percent of respondents 45 through 49 are chronically lonely, compared with 25 percent of those 70 and older. What is going on? This article from AARP Magazine is worth reading.
READ MOREHow to write an autobiography: 3 tips to getting started
Every life deserves a book. So how should we go about creating an autobiography and avoiding the dreaded blank sheet of paper?
READ MOREIntergenerational Projects for Teens
Youth are always seeking community service projects--so why not take the opportunity to have them connect to interview an older adults at a nursing home, senior living, assisted living community, church, senior center, or other setting.
READ MOREAutobiography Class for Libraries
Every person should have the chance to write a book! Libraries are an ideal place to offer autobiography writing classes. Regardless of someone's age, there are people, times, and places to share...plus the library is great place for friendships to form. Although autobiography classes are usually most appealing to those over 50 or seniors, there is no reason why a library wouldn't be able to include adults of any age in a course to capture life stories. An autobiography class in a library for seniors or all ages should include a great ice breaker, opportunities for people to tell and share stories, and it shouldn't be overly complicated or intimidating. In other words, even people who consider themselves non-writers should be able to participate.
READ MORETechnology for nursing homes of the 21st Century
Technology in skilled nursing is very beneficial for the residents, families, and staff. Here are a few reasons why computers in long term care or assisted living will continue to expand now and in the future...
READ MOREMemories lost. What can be done?
Here's a stunning number. In 2010, over 400,000 Americans were diagnosed with Alzheimer's Disease. Each year that number is expected to grow, reaching over 600,000 a year by 2030.
LifeBio is laser focused on using innovative technology and other tools to help ensure memories are not lost or forgotten in senior living, health care organizations, nursing homes, adult day programs, and home health care settings. Why?
Reunion games - a conversation starter
One of the challenges of planning games for a reunion is coming up with something that everyone can play together -- younger and older alike. Sack races and balloon tosses are great, but interative family games can be a bit more difficult to plan. Conversation starters can break down barriers and make for a memorable family reunion game for all ages.
READ MOREDon't let memories be lost or forgotten
It's important to capture your family's history and record a lasting legacy. Record the essence of your parents or grandparents (not just genealogy) and ensure future generations can really know them too. Also, memory loss is a real problem.
READ MOREAutobiography class for seniors
If you are interested in offering an autobiography class for seniors in your local area, senior center, or library, LifeBio provides the LifeBio 101 Class. This 8-week autobiography class for older adults curriculum is perfect for people of all ages but especially for seniors and boomers.
READ MORE400,000+ new cases of Alzheimer's Disease each year
Support the efforts of the Alzheimer's Association in your local area. Give to help find a cure for this disease that affects over 5 million Americans today. According to the Alzheimer's Association, in 2000, there were an estimated 411,000 new (incident) cases of Alzheimer’s disease in the U.S. For 2010, that number is projected to be 454,000 new cases; by 2030, 615,000; and by 2050, 959,000.
READ MOREMy Life Story -- Lessons learned from 41 years of life experience
Your life story and my life story are unique. I've learned a thing or two through the years and so have you. We don't always think about it or talk about it, but every day of life teaches us all something. I can only imagine that at age 51, 61, 81 or 101, I will most likely name different lessons learned, but here are my thoughts at age 41.
READ MOREBible studies for seniors and boomers
Many churches are now using "The Great Story & Your Story: Connecting the Bible to Everyday Lives" for Bible studies for seniors and boomers. This study is appealing because it helps people really relate their own lives to the biblical stories contained. The questions during each week of the 12-week study are autobiographical in nature, leading to very interesting discussions and wonderful opportunities to be heard and to listen.
READ MORESnow day activities - why not interview your grandparents
For all those teenagers who have been out of school for a few days, here is your chance to call your grandparents or email them and just say, "Tell me your life story." Then watch what happens! They may actually do it.
READ MOREOvercoming hate with love
We love when we listen. That's what I love about storytelling. We walk in each other's shoes. We try to understand what the other person is thinking. We may not agree on everything
READ MOREWe love as we listen
Last Thursday I went to the home of a very special woman. As a personal historian in Ohio, it was my great privilege to be able to videotape this 94-year-old in her country home at the request of her grandson. There was a sparkle in her eye as she shared her story
READ MOREMemoryBio - new reminiscence curriculum for Alzheimer's Disease
I saw a need when I came into skilled nursing communities or memory care units to provide a simple way for people to have a way of visiting with people who have memory loss or Alzheimer's Disease. MemoryBio provides one-on-one or small group activities involves sharing a picture or multiple pictures provided in the MemoryBio Photo Album.
READ MORECapturing life stories for someone with early-stage Alzheimer's disease
When someone has been dianosed with early stage Alzheimer's Disease, it is important to capture as many details of his or her life stories as possible, as quickly as possible. It may not seem like the details matter, but they do and they will. In fact, it will be critical to delivering the best possible service and care.
READ MOREStorytelling and Reminiscence Therapy for People with Alzheimer's or another form of dementia
People with memory problems can benefit greatly from reminiscence and life review processes. Unfortunately, too often memories are lost and forgotten before this critical information is captured. Professional caregivers and family caregivers are more and more interested in asking the right questions and recording the answers too
READ MORELife Stories Work and Social Work
Social histories and life stories...
A typical social history is an interview process used by a social worker during an intake process, typically associated with medical services. It would detail where someone grew up, and who the immediate family is and how to contact them. It would talk about the person's educational background and their family and marital status. Work life would be a key part of a social history, and it may even include hobbies and interests. The social history may include any problems or concerns the person is facing....and look to the future to have the person describe their goals.
Life stories in geriatric care management and social work
There are various ways that reminiscence and life review work can be used in geriatric care management and social work. Life stories are an excellent way to build relationships with your clients. Here's how and why it works:
READ MOREThe rise of breadmaking again? Maybe so....here are some tips.
Today I went to the grocery store and I was startled to see bread selling for $3.99 a loaf for the decent kind that has some substance to it. "What!" I thought. "I can buy a 5lb bag of flour on sale for $2 and make four loaves of bread for that same price...and I will know what's in it too!" And that's just what I did.
READ MOREKitty is back
At 5 a.m. this morning, Kitty returned home. She had been gone for at least a week. Her official name is Dalmatian, but she really goes by Kitty most of the time. She is a beautiful cat and she is the love of my 14-year-old daughter's life. We've had her at the house since the day she was born. She is the cutest cat we've ever seen. Anyway, Kitty disappeared around Dec. 25th or 26th and we were concerned that we would never see her again. I've been consoling my daughter for days
READ MOREUncovering family history and the lessons from the past
Watch this incredible story from GrowingBolder.com about a woman who discovered her fathers' letters and realized what he and his family had endured during World War II. Touched by both the war in Europe and Asia too....amazing story. Let this inspire you to pursue your own family history and the stories behind the people you love--while you have the chance.
READ MOREHow much we need our parents
I count myself very blessed to have my mother, father, mother-in-law, and father-in-law still with me. I am very conscious that they will not be with me forever. I suppose this fact of life and death may come to me more often than it does for most people
READ MORELife Stories in Senior Living
Life stories are a vital part of knowing every resident and delivering the very best service and care. In fact, it is also a useful approach for home health, non-medical home care, hospice, and adult day programs. Community settings like CCRCs, active aging communities, or other types of senior living are the ideal place for capturing life stories.
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Life Story Journal
The Life Story Journal contains 72 essential questions for writing your own life story or writing the life story of a loved one. Writing an autobiography is made easy with the Life Story Journal's "warm up" questions followed by questions on people, historical events, childhood memories, favorites, adulthood, beliefs, and life lessons.
READ MOREWhat makes a good gift?
What makes a good gift? In my opinion, great gifts have these 4 things in common.....
READ MOREWellness Trend -- Reminiscence
I'm at the ICAA Conference in San Diego today (speaking in about 2 hours). I'm going to talk about how wellness impacts ALL dimensions of wellness. With wellness directors especially looking for ways to address emotional and spiritual wellness in wellness programming, it is key to know that capturing life stories and bringing people together in GROUPS to share memories and experiences is a very powerful idea.
READ MOREEthical wills are growing in popularity judging by the news
Ethical wills have been in the news lately. Recent news stories in the Philadelphia Inquirer, Fort Myers News Press, and the Naples Daily News describe the importance of an ethical will and different ways of accomplishing the goal of writing down values and beliefs....the treasures of the heart NOT just monetary treasures.
READ MOREThe Gift of Life Stories - catch them while you can
Being surrounded by family the past few days reminds me of the fact that every life is amazingly unique. There is no one else like my Aunt Jane, my mother, or my father. No one like my sister or my brothers either. Their lives are a collection of the many people, places and adventures experienced.
READ MORETeaching Children How to Work: 3 Tips for Parents
It has always concerned me that I ensure my children are hard workers and that they have ample experience doing hard work. In fact, yesterday I was looking at a tree that had been cut down and the wood was left behind near our house. I thought, "Fantastic! My son will now have the excellent opportunity to chop that wood with an ax and carry it a long way. Now that's hard work and good exercise too!"
READ MOREEthical Will: A letter from the heart to your loved ones
Ethical wills are a way to share your love with family and close friends. Think of an ethical will as a heartfelt letter describing what truly matters most in your life. An ethical will passes on life lessons, values, advice, joys, prayers, hopes, and dreams for present and future generations.
READ MOREEthical will: Chuck Jaffe is going to say what matters most
Chuck Jaffe explains how life's priorities changed after a recent health scare. Among other things.... he is going to write an ethical will.
READ MOREWhy capture life stories?
YOU are unique. Every life is a collection of the many people, places and adventures experienced.
READ MOREWhy retirement communities want to implement life story programming
Here are 18 great reasons retirement communities shared for wanting the award-winning reminiscence program from LifeBio.
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Oral History Projects or Autobiography Projects in Libraries
We're hearing from libraries that are seeking ways to capture the life stories of the older members of the community. Libraries are the perfect setting for oral history projects. There can be autobiography classes or online autobiography licenses on writing life stories. There are great ways that intergenerational projects can happen in libraries as well.
READ MOREThe View from 80 by Dr. Richard Morgan...worth reading
Dr. Richard Morgan always has fascinating insights to share. He is honest about life and death.
READ MOREFinishing the Race
My daughter ran in a cross country race this weekend. I was there cheering her on, but I noticed that her face said something was wrong. She wasn't physically in pain, yet something wasn't quite right. I kept cheering away from four different locations around the course. She finished the race with her personal record
READ MORELiving in a Norman Rockwell painting
Sometimes living in Marysville, Ohio is like living in a Norman Rockwell painting. Yesterday was one of those days. It was the annual Homecoming Parade which began with the marching band in red, white, and blue (my daughter was playing her trombone) followed by the homecoming court, the football players, the cheerleaders, then the junior sports teams (including my son's football team).
READ MORETop 3 client gifts for 2011, thoughtful gifts from financial advisors to their clients
With the holidays right around the corner, what are some thoughtful, meaningful gifts you can give to your clients? Whether you are a financial planner, estate attorney, or insurance salesperson, you are seeking the best gifts to give to clients. Your clients have lived fascinating lives--running businesses, leading in the community, enjoying their children and grandchildren through the years. As an advisor to your clients, you are concerned about your clients financial legacy and their family legacy too.
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Reminiscence Therapy, Dr. Robert Butler
Dr. Robert Butler, who passed away July 4, 2010, is credited with the idea that reminiscing could be therapeutic. Butler, a psychiatrist with a specialty in geriatric medicine, first spoke of the idea of a "life review" in the 1960s. At the time, psychiatrists did not think it was a good idea for people to always be "living in the past", but Butler disagreed and made it clear that reminiscence was a natural process of healthy aging.
READ MOREMayo Clinic article explains the importance of life stories for people with dementia
LifeBio has been working with the Mayo Clinic for the past couple of years providing our Life Story Journals for people with early-stage Alzheimer's to capture their stories and memories. Read in this article as Dr. Glenn Smith describes the importance of connecting and recording what matters most.
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Laughter, friendship, and a "great sense of community"
I received this note from Jennie, life enrichment director....They have just completed their first Storyboards and had a LifeBio Celebration in health care.
READ MOREDaughter's experience with her father's LifeBio, sharing his Veteran's Story
I appreciated this note that I received from a woman who just ordered hardcover Legacy Books after typing in her father's memories at http://www.lifebio.com/.
READ MOREThe Ripple Effect of Love - Culture Change and Person-Centered Care
I work with a lot of senior living communities, assisted living, and skilled nursing homes across the US and Canada. I have found that you can feel the difference when you walk into a community that loves and respects every person in the building.
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How Technology Changes Lives: Online Biographies Prove Useful for Person-Centered Care, Family Involvement, and Intergenerational Programming
LifeBio works with dozens of senior living and senior services organizations across the US and Canada. Here are 3 ways that technology impacts lives....
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3 tools for using reminiscence therapy with hospice patients
Autobiographies of hospice patients, biographies of hospice patients, life stories of hospice patients
There is growing interest in reminiscence therapy or narrative care in hospice care. Reminiscence is proven to lower depression, lower physical pain, and increase happiness in study after study. Hospice patients would benefit from a process that provides some structure for creating a lasting legacy. These tools for reminiscence therapy could be used in hospitals, hospice care organizations, or in long term care settings. Reminiscence works for people of all ages and it builds a bridge between younger and older generations too.
READ MOREICAA provides successful programs for older adults & LifeBio is on the list
LifeBio is pleased to be included in the International Council on Active Aging's (ICAA) list of successful programs for older adults. To see the complete list, click here....
READ MOREFinancial Advisor, Gift Ideas for Clients
With the holidays right around the corner, what are some thoughtful, meaningful gifts you can give to your clients? Your clients have lived fascinating lives--running businesses, leading in the community, enjoying their children and grandchildren through the years. As a financial planner, you are concerned about your clients financial legacy and their family legacy too. Here are 4 gift ideas to consider:
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How to conduct an oral history recording
I've done many phone interviews or in-person video interviews with clients so let me share a few oral history tips from my experience. But first a word of encouragement. There is nothing like getting to know another person deeply. I would urge you to interview a relative, friend, or neighbor. Create an oral history recording as a volunteer service project. Just be sure you do it without delay.
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Reminiscence Therapy for Recreation Therapy
Reminiscence therapy activities, life stories for activities
There is growing interest in reminiscence therapy or narrative care in senior living and long term care health care settings. A holistic approach to care is key; the mind body connection cannot be discounted. To that end, here are four proven and universal tools for reminiscence therapy. There is also the option to become a LifeBio Certified Community and gain access to all the below resources.
READ MORE4 reminiscence therapy tools
There is growing interest in reminiscence therapy or narrative care in health care settings. A holistic approach to care is key; the mind body connection cannot be discounted. To that end, here are four proven and universal tools for reminiscence therapy.
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The Great Depression and The Great Recession
I suppose things could be worse.
It always amazes me to hear the life stories of people who lived during the Great Depression. The Greatest Generation grew up in those tough times. In Texas, they tell me about crawling through fields picking cotton as babes. In Minnesota, it is a similar story but they are picking potatoes. If they could earn just a few more pennies for their family's needs, they certainly did it. Once in a great while, they got to buy a piece of candy with those extra pennies.
Real Stories of America: Irving Carlson
Irving Carlson, age 90, shares about his life as a farmer in Minnesota. He took the "Real Stories of America: 10-Minute Biography Challenge" in June 2010.
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Creating a Legacy
Writing down your memories helps to create a legacy. There is no one else like you. Only you can share your story and your legacy with your children and grandchildren. So what are you waiting for?
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Life Story Journal
LifeBio's new Life Story Journal will make it easier than ever for people to capture their life stories. It begins with some thought-provoking "warm up" questions and then proceeds with questions in a thought-provoking autobiography template on the people in your life, childhood memories, favorites as a child or teen, historical events, military service, love, marriage, children, grandchildren, hobbies, friendship, faith, values, life lessons, and more.
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Why Reminisce? Activity Ideas for Retirement Communities and Nursing Homes
Here are 3 reasons why some activity directors may hold back from beginning a reminiscence program.
READ MOREBrain fitness and reminiscence grows to address an aging population
There is increasing interest in brain fitness and reminiscence because of the need to stimulate the hippocampus area of the brain (where memory is stored) and the prefrontal cortex (where executive functions, reasoning, internal goal setting, personality, and decision making happens). One or both regions of the brain are typically impacted with Alzheimer's disease.
READ MORENarrative care, narrative medicine, tools for building relationships and biographies
LifeBio is honored to have become familiar with the work of Dr. Bill Randall and Dr. Gary Kenyon, both professors of gerontology at St. Thomas University in New Brunswick, Canada. There definition of narrative care is as follows:
READ MOREJustifying the Cost of LifeBio in Senior Living or Active Aging Communities
What does it cost you…
READ MOREReinventing activity programs in long term care
How do we keep "activities" REAL? What are some next generation activities that aren't the "same old, same old"? How do we excel at life enrichment? Is it possible to help people achieve happiness and wellness--even when the physical body doesn't want to cooperate anymore? Here are four things I suggest activity directors, life enrichment directors, or therapeutic recreation directors focus on. What are your thoughts?
READ MOREMemory Care Program Tips
Senior living communities, retirement communities, assisted living, skilled nursing, adult day programs, and other organizations have a growing interest and need to enhance or add memory care programs to their offerings. Here are four tips to consider for your memory care program of the future...
READ MOREWhat's stopping retirement communities from telling life stories?
Here are 3 reasons why some retirement communities may hold back from beginning a reminiscence program.
READ MOREReal Stories of America
Wilson C. was the first participant in the Real Stories of America Tour Ten-Minute Biography Challenge. What makes Wilson unique as an individual? How does his life story compare to your life story, or the life stories of friends and family members? Have you been asking, "How do I tell my life story?" Are you up to taking the Ten-Minute Biography Challenge? Start today!
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The Veteran's Story
As you gather with family and friends this Memorial Day, take a moment to acknowledge and show appreciate to any veteran you know who has made the ultimate sacrifice of serving his or her country.
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"Get Going...Get Fit...Start Today!"
May 26th is National Senior Health and Fitness Day. The goal of National Senior Health and Fitness Day is to bring awareness to and promote healthy lifestyles for aging adults. This year's theme is "Get Going...Get Fit...Start Today!" Here at LifeBio, we would like to encourage you to take this opportunity to do just that!
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Unwritten Lyrics
As I was listening to the radio today, a song by Natasha Bedingfield began to play—Unwritten Lyrics. The song is dear to my heart, as it spoke of the book of life—cherishing the past and being open to endless possibilities to come.
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Sense of purpose in life reduces risk of Alzheimer’s disease
Individuals who report greater purpose in their lives appear less likely to develop Alzheimer’s disease or its precursor, mild cognitive impairment, according to a recent study conducted by Rush University Medical Center. The study found that people tend to rediscover their life purpose by deriving meaning from life experiences.
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3 reasons you should write a legacy letter or ethical will
What is a Legacy Letter or Ethical Will?
Ethical wills are a way to share your love with family and close friends. Think of an ethical will as a heartfelt letter or legacy letter describing what truly matters most in your life. An ethical will passes on life lessons, values, joys, prayers, hopes, and dreams for present and future generations. It doesn't have to be anything fancy--just a letter from the heart that expresses your thoughts.
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Autobiography Made Easy
WESTLAND, Mich., May 5, 2010—Sometimes it’s tough to know how to start an autobiography, but residents at American House Westland (on Hunter Ave.) have not only started, but finished their biographies using a new group class, journals and storyboards.
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National Visiting Nurse Association Week
This week, LifeBio joins countless organizations to show its appreciation for visitng nurses, home health aides and hospice care providers throughout the country by celebrating National Visiting Nurse Association (VNA) Week. LifeBio recognizes the importance of the sacrifices these individuals make every day to bring joy, comfort and hope into the lives of others, while simeltaneously caring for their health needs.
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LifeBio Celebrates Older Americans Month
May is Older Americans Month! The 2010 theme for the month, as decided by the U.S. Administration on Aging, is "Age strong! Live long!"
READ MOREReminiscence: An innovative wellness and health care approach
Reminiscence has been found to lower depression, improve attitudes of people toward caregivers, and increase self esteem. That's why health care companies and hospitals are taking notice of LifeBio's innovative reminiscence programming for individuals and communities. This is cognitive fitness at its finest without all the expense of other brain fitness programs.
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Graduation - Preserving Memories While Beginning a New Journey
Whether your loved one is graduating from high school or college this spring, the day will be one that is filled with cherished memories. Help them capture and preserve the memories of their great accomplishment by beginning their autobiography. Sure, right now your graduate is on cloud nine, but will he or she remember every detail about how they felt on this very special day when he or she received the diploma or degree, walked across the stage or each friend and family member they shared the moment with?
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Getting to Really Know Mom
This Sunday, millions of families will gather to celebrate the love and devotion of mothers. Whether you plan to go to brunch, cook a special dinner, attend a church service, or just stop by for a visit, use this opportunity to engage your mother in meaningful conversation and truly get to know her for who she is.
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New Family Traditions for Cinco de Mayo
Happy Cinco de Mayo!
History matters to us. Cinco de Mayo celebrates the anniversary of the Battle of Puebla, when the Mexican army defeated the French in 1862. Cinco De Mayo--a day to celebrate Mexican national pride, independence and freedom
READ MOREIowa State finds tie between reminiscence and happiness
Here is a groundbreaking study by Dr. Peter Martin at Iowa State…don’t miss this! Read the first two sections of the article to see what I mean….
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Family Reunion Fun
Summer is quickly approaching, and that means the season for family reuions will soon be in full swing! For many of us, family reunions are the only time when we are allotted the opportunity to spend prolonged periods of time with our loved ones. Try incorporating the LifeBio Memory Box into your family reunion activities, and let the fun begin! The LifeBio Memory Gift Box, comes complete with the Memory Journal, The Story of My Treasures, LifeBio.com Online Membership (autobiography template), Story Cards and a commemorative pen.
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What is a Personal Historian?
Writing an autobiography or biography is seemingly a daunting task. Sometimes knowing where to start can be the most difficult part. Then deciding what should be included, what should not be included and so on can make the process of creating an autobiography or biography challenging.
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Preserving Oral History
The oral tradition of telling family stories was crushed in the 20th Century by the rise of all other forms of entertainment. Storytelling was much more common when we didn't have the movies, reality TV and the radio. So instead of seeking a conversation with our family members, we've got plenty of things to distract us.
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10 Fun and Cheap Activities to do with Your Grandkids
The economy has been in decline for quite some time now, but that doesn’t mean you have to stop spending quality time with your grandchildren. There are plenty of cost-effective, fun activities that you and your grandchildren will enjoy! The following activities from Leah Ingram’s Suddenly Frugal: How to Live Happier and Healthier for Less, can help you reconnect with your grandchildren, and save money:
READ MOREBrain fitness and wellness--Use it or LOSE it
Neurons must be challenged to survive and thrive. See a video of Dr. Gobble of Masterpiece Living sharing powerful information on brain fitness produced on ICAA's new TV channel. Is brain fitness really impacting people's lives in a profound way? The answer is YES. The social connection matters. Using the computer for brain fitness is great, but interactions with people lead to successful aging too.
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4 tips for buying a memory book
If you are considering a memory book for yourself or for a loved one in order to capture life stories, it is important to consider what separates the best memory books from the "so-so" memory books or journals. Here are 4 tips to help you with your decision:
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3 tips for great activity programs for seniors, activity director ideas, senior activities for activity directors
As times change and people's interests change, it is important to be flexible and creative with activities in senior living communities or in senior centers. Here are a few ways to get "outside the box" with your approach.
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Tips for starting a Friendly Visiting Program using reminiscence tools
LifeBio is working with senior services agencies and area agencies on aging to provide innovative ways for friendly visitors to build a relationships through reminiscence. Here are 3 tips for getting this program started in your community.
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Skilled Nursing, Memory Care, & Reminiscence
Studies have shown that communities see remarkable results when reminiscence and life review are encouraged.
Increases Life Satisfaction
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Happy Easter from LifeBio!
This Easter, consider giving your loved ones the gift of memories. The Great Story & Your Story, written by Beth Sanders and Richard L. Morgan, is a Bible study that helps people share their life stories and their faith stories.
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Volunteer Opportunities with LifeBio
LifeBio is in action in 40+ retirement communities across the U.S. and Canada. There could be a local volunteer opportunity in your area! Or maybe you'd like to spearhead a project to capture life stories of older people in your local area!
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4 reasons to incorporate autobiography in your brain fitness program for retirement communities
Brain fitness is a key focus for senior living communities, but providing cognitive challenges is much more than crossword puzzles and trivia. It doesn't have to just be using a computer program. Today, brain fitness programs should incorporate autobiography programming for these 4 reasons.
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5 outcomes from social and emotional education, emotional intelligence
When school children connect to tell and share their life stories, they experience the best form of social and emotional education. They are learning....
READ MORE5 new ideas from the American Society on Aging Conference
Learned a lot this week at the ASA conference and met some interesting organizations and people I thought I would share.
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LifeBio Receives Award
LifeBio was recently named the 2009 Union County Small Business of the Year! LifeBio has had a profound impact on Union County, as well as communities throughout the country and internationally. To date, LifeBio has helped nearly 20,000 people rediscover and share their life stories.
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Happy St. Patrick's Day!
Happy St. Patrick's Day from LifeBio! Whether you are of Irish decent or not, you may have family traditions surrounding the holiday that date back generations. If not, why not start one today? Some of the most treasured memories are those surrounding holiday celebrations with loved ones. Cook a traditional Irish meal for your family or visit your local Irish pub with a few close friends. It's traditions like these that make us unique and special.
READ MOREEntrepreneurship and New Career Opportunities in the Boomer Market: ASA Conference
Mark Willaman did a great job summarizing a panel I was on today at the ASA Conference.
Read Mark Willaman's blog
7 tips for writing your autobiography
1. Choose creating a legacy as a life goal. Set a deadline for when you’d like the first edition of your story finished (you can always add the next chapter of your life's journey later). A deadline, like an upcoming holiday, can be a strong motivator to keep you going through the process.
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LifeBio Celebrates Its Tenth Anniversary!
LifeBio, the nation’s leading autobiography and legacy company is celebrating its tenth anniversary!
Since opening on March 6, 2000, LifeBio has helped nearly 20,000 people tell their life stories. LifeBio enables people of all ages to have a private place to share life stories, upload pictures and create customized memory books using LifeBio.com, the Memory Journal and various autobiographical tools and services.
5 tips for conducting an oral history interview
1. Don't delay and don't talk yourself out of it. It's time to capture your loved one's story in print, on video, via audio, or writing via the web. Your loved one's life story is far more interesting than you can ever imagine. The oral history interview is key for genealogy research.
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5 tips for writing an autobiography
When you are starting to consider writing your life story, here are a few tips that will help you get started.
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Benefits of Reminiscing
A seemingly simple process, reminiscence, has been found to have a profound impact on the mental and physical health of individuals, as well as for those who share these memories with the person who is reminiscing.
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LifeBio Launches Road of Life Adventure Tour
In celebration of our tenth anniversary, LifeBio is launching the Road of Life Adventure Tour. During the national campaign, I will make it my mission to capture as many life stories as possible by interviewing subjects and teaching them how to write their autobiographies or the biographies of loved ones.
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2010 Winter Olympics
As I gather with my family to watch our favorite events of the 2010 Winter Olympic Games, I am reminded about how the little things in life bring us together. Just as watching the Olympic Games brings my family together, recording these precious memories has the same effect.
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New Chapters of Life Every Day for Boomers and Beyond
Technology, brain fitness, relationships...oh my!
When technology bridges people together, it’s a beautiful thing. BUT….PEOPLE matter more than the technology. In fact, the most complex task for our brains is understanding another human being. That’s LifeBio.com’s favorite form of brain fitness!
READ MOREThe Perfect Valentine's Day Gift
Valentine’s Day is the day for all types of love—love for your children, parents, grandparents, siblings and friends. LifeBio provides an easy way to capture your love story (and your whole LIFE story) with our template of thought-provoking questions.
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Boy Scouts 100th Anniversary
Today marks the 100th anniversary of the Boy Scouts of America! For decades, this organization has worked to develop core values in boys and young men throughout America by promoting character development through community service and leadership.
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LifeBio Celebrates Black History Month
As you and your loved ones celebrate Black History Month this year, take time to reflect on Black History at the micro level. In addition to the heroic stories we hear about Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Rosa Parks, and many others, countless men and women of all ages, races, and religions helped to unite this country for equal rights for all men and women prior to, during, and after the Civil Rights Movement.
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Making a Connection from Afar
Growing up in Erie, PA, I had a very close-knit family. In fact, I lived right across the street from my grandmother. Despite being a close family (figuratively and literally), at the age of 24, I realized I did not know my grandmother as well as I thought I had. After
an impromptu 90-minute interview, she became much more than grandma to me. She became a real person--who had traveled through different phases of life experiencing joys and challenges along the way. She was a little girl, a teenage basketball player, a college student, a teacher, a mother, and then a grandmother.
Innovative Valentine's Day Gifts
February is quickly approaching, which means Valentine's Day will soon be here. In addition to the roses that will wilt within a few days, and the chocolate that be eaten, give your loved one a gift that will stand the test of time--just like your love. What better way to express your love than with a sentimental gift that will let you and your honey walk down memory lane... remembering how you met, your first kiss, the proposal, your wedding, vacations, your first child and so on. LifeBio provides an easy way to capture your love story with the Memory Journal, the MemoryBio Photo Album and much more!
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Top 10 Travel Destinations for Baby Boomers
With snow on the ground and frost in the air, the summer vacation season seems far away; but now's the time to start planning your next vacation if you already haven't done so. According to Grace Lichtenstein of Away.com, the top 10 domestic travel destinations and activities for active baby boomers are as follows:
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Narrative Therapy and LifeBio
Recently, while attending a conference, I was introduced to the term, “narrative therapy.” If you’re like me, you may not have heard of narrative therapy before. Narrative therapy, also referred to as “re-authoring,” was developed in the 1970s and 1980s by Michael White and David Epston. According to the Narrative Therapy Centre of Toronto, narrative therapy “focuses on the stories of people’s lives and is based on the idea that problems are manufactured in social, cultural and political contexts. Each person produces the meaning of their life from the stories that are available in these contexts.“
READ MOREMETAMOR: a new word for positive, older people...GROWING older (not getting older)
I was thinking that there needs to be a new word to replace "senior" in our language. I was thinking that aging brings about change....physical, emotional, social, spiritual, and intellectual changes. The new word needs to describe that transformation....so I began to think of butterflies and the change they undergo getting there. Metamorphosis came to mind...and then "metamor" emerged from that word. Now, not everyone who is getting older can be a "metamor".
READ MOREEventually it will never get done
Don't put off until tomorrow what you can do today. Procrastination is the biggest problem when you're thinking about writing your life story (or you want to interview mom, dad, grandma, grandpa). The second problem is not knowing what to write.
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New Year, New Hobby
As we enter a new year, many of us will make resolutions to spend more time with family and friends, learn something new and to simply take time out to enjoy life more. Bringing in the New Year with an original hobby that will help you achieve these resolutions could be just what you need for a fresh start.
READ MOREIf I had a nickel...
If I had a nickel for every time that someone uttered the following words, I would be a very rich woman. "I wish I had recorded the life stories of _____________ while I had the chance." Then I normally hear about this incredible parent or grandparent who worked three jobs to keep the family afloat OR sacrificed everything so his or her children could go to college OR made the very best chicken dumplings OR played a mean piano.
READ MOREHow to choose a quality memory book or memory journal
You may be interested in a memory book for your mother, father, grandmother, or grandfather. Not all memory books are created equal. Here is what to look for in a memory book or "memory journal" for your parents or grandparents. Sometimes having some structure makes it easier to interview a parent or grandparent. Here are some things to watch for when choosing a memory book or memory journal:
READ MOREIs your New Year's Resolution to capture life stories of a loved one?
I was reminded over the holidays as we sat around the dinner table that these are precious people staring back at me. My parents are extra special and so are my aunts and uncles. I look at their lives and realize all the good times and hardships that have shaped them over the years. I realize that they have interesting opinions and perspectives on life that deserve to be recorded and remembered by me, by my children, and someday by my grandchildren
READ MOREIs your New Year's Resolution to write an autobiography?
Resolve to begin writing an autobiography. It's funny but so many people think they have nothing to say. I met a gentleman just the other day and told him about the work we do at LifeBio and how we've helped thousands of people with our autobiography template. He laughed and said, "I've got nothing to say."
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