Passing on wisdom

BY ROBERT MULLANEY

Today’s seniors have lived through significant historic events and change – from the Great Depression and World War II to rapid-fire advances in technology and medical science. And along the way, through times both challenging and prosperous, they have collected a treasure trove of experiences and wisdom that could guide us today and in the future.

Over time, many seniors do share their experiences, one by one, with family, friends and business associates. That is good, but often they are only spoken and not written down or recorded.

And many times they are passed along only to immediate family members and not others who may lack strong family ties of their own, thus missing out on chances to swap stories with older adults.

Senior centers often plan occasions that bring generations together, for instance, to recognize seniors for their service as veterans or business and community leaders. Many entrepreneurs have launched businesses to help people who want to preserve their or a loved one’s experiences. There also are plenty of Web sites that offer do-it-yourself advice. The reality is that intergenerational conversations can take place anytime there is a group willing to share their stories and keep the memories and knowledge alive. ■

Robert Mullaney is local owner of homecare agency Comfort Keepers, serving the South Shore and Cape Cod. He can be reached at (508) 746-4800 or comfortkeepers.com.


Published in Cape & Plymouth Business March 2010