TimeSlips Creative Storytelling sessions at Port Macquarie Library

The creative storytelling method allows meaningful moments with and for people with memory loss.

Creative ageing practitioner Lisa Hort will show participants a staged image, followed by asking open-ended questions about the image.

The group will build a story about the image, about what is happening in the picture, what could have happened before and what could happen next.

The sessions are designed particularly for people with memory loss.

“Everything is accepted and the stories can take quite a twist,” Ms Hort said.

“You go on a journey with the story and it’s quite an adventure.”

The TimeSlips Creative Storytelling sessions at the library begin on June 14 and run over four weeks with a session each week.

The first session is booked out but inquiries are welcome for future sessions.

People with inquiries about the future sessions should contact Port Macquarie Library on 6581 8755.

Ms Hort said the benefits of the program for people with memory loss were social engagement, communication and being valued.

“Their opinion is valued and there are contributing to the story within an accepting and inclusive environment,” she said.

There are no right or wrong answers.

TimeSlips Creative Storytelling has reached 14 countries.

Ms Hort trained in TimeSlips Creative Storytelling in 2013 and three years later completed further training in Milwaukee.

“I had a fascination about creative engagement and how it benefits people with memory loss or people with dementia,” she said.

“They seem to tap into their creativity and I enjoy having the skill in opening that platform of creative communication.”

Ms Hort also runs the sessions in facilities and respite day care centres.