They are our storytellers – our elderly are meant to be those who share the secrets of wisdom and knowledge of life with our youth. – Cameron Diaz

Old places and old persons in their turn, when spirit dwells in them, have an intrinsic vitality of which youth is incapable, precisely, the balance and wisdom that come from long perspectives and broad foundations. – George Santayana

The best classroom in the world is at the feet of an elderly person. – Andy Rooney

A tragic aspect of modern life is the way we treat elderly members of our communities. In rural communities it is particularly easy for old people to experience isolation and loneliness. In the region of East Fermanagh between 12 and 17% of households are people over the age of 65 living alone.

In this group Common Ground reaches out to the elders of the local communities to create a space where they can come together. We are particularly interested in the sharing of their life  stories in relation to landscape, land use, changes in the environment and local communities.  The elders carry the story of the land and when they go those stories go with them.  This group is therapeutic, using principles of group work and narrative therapy. It is facilitated by at least one therapist/facilitator. Narrative therapy group counselling has been shown to reduce loneliness and depression in the elderly participants. It also gives an increased sense of meaning.

To show your interest in this low cost group and make it happen for yourself and/or others please either comment below or go to the Registration of Interest form — dates will be published later.

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