"I hated those darn chickens...": The Power in Stories for Older Adults and Nurses

Abstract

Attention to stories provides a holistic view of an older adult and offers the potential for quality nursing intervention. Explored in this article is the power of stories to advance the well being of older adults and the implications for gerontological nurses of a commitment to support storytelling in this population.

Emerging themes in using narrative in geriatric care: Implications for patient-centered practice and interprofessional teamwork

“…Given its traditional emphasis on holistic, patient-centered care, it is not surprising that as a profession nursing emphasizes the use of narrative methods in clinical practice with older adults (e.g., Buckley et al, 2013;Clarke, 2000;Hirst & Raffin, 2001;Mitty, 2010). However, studies also document negative attitudes toward older adults on the part of nursing students (Cozort, 2008), as well as the detrimental effects of ageism as a barrier to the development of effective therapeutic relationships between nurses and older patients (Eymard & Douglas, 2012).…”

Holocaust Testimony

“…ing of memories, and the process or practice of thinking, recalling or telling about past or long-forgotten experiences, personal memorable and significant events (McMahon & Rhudick, 1967;Lappe, 1987;Merriam, 1989;Burnside, 1990;Tilki, 2000;Hirst & Raffin, 2001;Jonsdottir et al, 2001;Silver 2001). Butler's concepts of the life review expanded on Erikson's developmental theory of the Eight Ages of Man where the developmental crisis to be resolved in man's final stage is 'integrity vs. despair' (Erikson, 1950).…”