It was such a pleasure to share my quilts with the American House residents on May19th, 2023. The Bistro was full of people ready to share this unique experience. I shared my stories and quilts of some of my favorite things; cycling, traveling, and combining various quilting techniques. I heard about places that the residents have traveled to over the years. There were some world travelers there. I handed out the homework assignment which was to share some favorite pastimes, places and people stories with others.
This is a photo of my "Tuscany" quilt. I shared a bit about my travels to Tuscany Italy with my husband 15 years ago. When I returned home, I did scrapbook some of my photos, but I also enjoyed making this little quilt with the winding roads, small windows and red roofs. We saw lots of vineyards too. The colors of the countryside were breathtaking.
When I asked the residents to share some of their favorite things, the hands shot up in the air. The first resident said, "Chocolates." The next resident said, "flowers - all kinds." The third resident replied, "phone calls."
As I left that American House on May 19th, I was thinking about sharing the residents' 3 favorite things with all of you who read my blog. Do you tend to put off a visit to an assisted living residence because you do not know what to bring? Are you thinking that these people have little space and do not need any clutter? Well, you are correct. Here are 3 doable suggestions.
1. Chocolates do not take much space. They even are available in sugar free. The residents do not need a five pound box of chocolates. A small token of some of their favorites would lift their hearts and spirits.
2. Flowers only last a week if fresh cut
or seasonal. Or a card with flowers on it will bring a smile and last longer. I love sending cards that are 3-D to my relatives. Mom keeps the "special" cards that I and my siblings send. I love to look at the card with the quilled tea pot which my sister sent to my mom. Having something cheery to read and re-read in their rooms is a blessing. Don't shy away from sending a card if visiting in person does not fit in your schedule.
3. A phone call was also a popular response too. If you don't know what to say, start with, "Hi, it's (say your name)." Tell the person that you were just thinking about them. It is so nice to be thought of. If you have a favorite memory to share with your loved one, tell the story again. They like to hear about things they did and have long forgotten. Remember, every day we spend with someone is like planting a seed. Since we each have our own perspective, the time and memory of that time germinates differently. It is not important to correct someone about the details of the day, just smile and enjoy the interaction. If you just had an experience to share, they would love to hear the excitement in your voice (even if you need to speak loudly and repeat a few words).
Learning from my audiences and sharing my stories and quilts, lifts my spirits. I will continue to create new talks to continue to talk to the talented folks in my audiences. Please join me in staying connected with our seniors in new and exciting ways. Order some chocolates to be delivered and then phone the recipient or bring them in person. Order some flowers or bring them yourself. Pick up the phone and make that call. You will not be disappointed. Mark it in your calendar so it becomes part of your monthly routine.
If you would like me to share my stories and art quilts with your residents, please send me an email at Linda@LindaRamrathSpeaks.com.
Linda Ramrath
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