StoryCorps' Memory Loss Initiative: Enhancing personhood for storytellers with memory loss

摘要

StoryCorps' Memory Loss Initiative was designed to gather oral histories of people with memory loss. This study investigated the StoryCorps interview experience for storytellers who self identify with early stage memory loss and the persons who interviewed them. StoryCorps interviews took place in Milwaukee, Chicago, and New York. Follow-up interviews were conducted with 42 persons with memory loss, along with 27 family members who participated in the StoryCorps interviews. Results revealed that the StoryCorps experience was a meaningful activity that allowed participants to acknowledge the beauty of the present moment, to reflect and engage in meaningful conversations, to re-affirm both the selfhood of individuals with memory loss and their relationships with family members, and to and be a part of national history while leaving a legacy for future generations within families. The findings are discussed within the context of personhood enhancing strategies for persons with memory loss.