What Is Weekly Group Storytelling?

Weekly group storytelling is an activity where people gather to share personal experiences, family memories or imaginative tales. Sessions are often led by a volunteer — or, in the case of a location like The Gardens at Barry Road in Kansas City, MO, perhaps a staff member. The leader provides prompts or themes to inspire conversation. Whether participants speak up or simply listen, storytelling groups should provide a comfortable, judgment-free environment designed to encourage connection and self-expression.

Potential Benefits of Storytelling

Storytelling has emotional, social, cognitive and lifestyle benefits. These benefits can increase when storytelling is a regular part of your life.

The Emotional and Social Benefits of Storytelling

Sharing stories in a group setting can help older adults feel heard and valued. That can help foster a sense of belonging and emotional connection, reducing feelings of loneliness and isolation. Research also shows that storytelling — and listening to stories — can support empathy, boost mood through the release of oxytocin and improve memory.

Storytelling's Cognitive and Memory Benefits

Storytelling activates multiple parts of the brain, which can boost memory recall and reinforce cognitive functions. The act of storytelling stimulates language, sequencing and attention parts of the brain and provides gentle mental exercise that might support long-term brain health.

Studies on story work and reminiscence therapy indicate that sharing personal narratives helps reinforce identity and may delay memory decline. That might be true even for those with early stages of dementia. Studies indicate that the effects may even be present with digital storytelling, like making social media content.

Creative Expression and Legacy Building

Storytelling can empower older adults to express creativity and preserve life stories. By recounting past events or coming up with fictional tales, individuals can communicate their personal values, traditions and experiences. This legacy work lets older adults share meaning and personal identity with younger generations, which can strengthen intergenerational bonds and help preserve treasured memories.

Tips for Making the Most of Group Storytelling

If you aren't somewhere with a formal storytelling group nearby or don't have a group of friends who like to sit around regularly and swap tales, you might wonder how you can enjoy the potential perks of this fun activity. We've got tips to get you started.

Invite Others to Join You

Reach out to friends or family members. Schedule a comfortable location and a weekly time that's good for everyone. Consider combining storytelling with another activity. You could walk as a group while you share stories or position your plots over plates of food at brunch or dinner. Be flexible and willing to change up activities until you find something that works.

Keep Groups Small But Welcoming

Smaller groups allow everyone to participate in the way that works for them. When people get to know each other well, they're also more likely to share their stories. Aim for no more than 6 to 8 people.

Start With Some Meaningful Prompts

Choose prompts that naturally spark memories and conversation. Asking about childhood traditions, first jobs, favorite vacations or life milestones helps participants feel comfortable sharing. Open-ended questions encourage reflection and give each storyteller the freedom to approach the topic in their own way.

Add Tangible Memory Triggers

Physical objects can bring stories to life. Consider incorporating photos, heirlooms, letters or music to jog memories and inspire vivid details. A familiar song or keepsake can transport participants back to a specific time, making stories richer and easier to share.

Encourage Active Listening

Storytelling is as much about listening as it is about sharing. Encourage participants to respond with empathy, ask gentle follow-up questions and affirm one another’s contributions.

Choose Fun Themes for Some Sessions

Themes can help someone figure out which story to tell. It can also be fun to see how each person might approach the theme differently. Here are some themes you might consider:

• Childhood games and favorite pastimes
• Family traditions or holiday memories
• First jobs and lessons learned
• Favorite teachers or mentors
• Travel memories and dream destinations
• Celebrating birthdays, weddings or other big events
• Imagining a conversation with a historical figure
• Favorite recipes and cooking mishaps

Start Storytelling Today

Whether you're in an assisted living community or living in the same neighborhood you have for half a century, starting a storytelling group can be a rewarding experience. The best part is that you don't need anything to do it. Simply be willing to show up and share your memories, and ask others to do the same.