Women in their 70s, 80s, and 90s have witnessed changes in Canada that their mothers could hardly have imagined. Some remember being expected to leave a job once they married. Many senior women have run businesses, raised families, served on councils, and helped bring about changes that younger women now take for granted.
Sharing the life stories of older women helps families understand their experiences and celebrate their achievements. Senior Helpers Kelowna provides companionship and practical support for older adults in the Okanagan. Caregivers can spend time with them as they share stories and connect with family.
Preserving the Life Stories of Older Women
The Government of Canada designated October as Women's History Month in 1992. Women and Gender Equality Canada describes it as a time to celebrate the women and girls whose leadership and determination have shaped the country.
The life stories of older women offer a personal view of Canada's history. Their memories of work, family life, education, and community involvement offer younger generations a personal perspective on how life has changed.
Persons Day and the Women Who Came Before
Persons Day falls on October 18. On that date in 1929, the Judicial Committee of the Privy Council in London ruled that women were persons under the British North America Act. This decision meant women could be appointed to the Senate.
The Canadian Encyclopedia's entry on the Persons Case explains how Emily Murphy, Nellie McClung, Irene Parlby, Louise McKinney, and Henrietta Muir Edwards, known as the Famous Five, brought the case forward.
Some older adults may have mothers or grandmothers who lived when this decision was made. Asking about family memories can help them connect Canada's history to the experiences of women in their families.
Prompts for a Quiet Afternoon
Setting aside time for a conversation can help seniors reflect on their lives. Choose a comfortable setting, put the kettle on if you like, and keep a pen handy to record any memories they want to preserve.
Consider asking questions such as
- What did people expect of you as a young woman, and which expectations did you set aside?
- What was the first big purchase you made on your own?
- Which change in women's lives surprised you most?
- Who did you admire most as a young woman?
- What accomplishment are you proudest of, whether at home or at work?
- What would you like younger women in your family to know?
Write down the answers or record them with her permission. These stories can help children and grandchildren learn about the lives and values of the women in their family.
Sharing What You're Proud Of
Many women of this generation were raised to be modest, so talking about their own accomplishments can feel like bragging. Try starting with something small, like the garden you kept going through a hard winter or the recipe everyone still asks for. Bigger stories usually follow.
Some families turn these conversations into a project. They sort old photos, label the backs with names and dates, and pair each picture with a short memory. Others simply ask a new question during a family meal.
Company for Storytelling in the Okanagan
Looking back is easier with someone to listen to. A caregiver can offer companionship and listen as older women share their life stories. They can also assist with meals, light housekeeping, and transportation to visit friends, family, or local events.
Senior Helpers Kelowna provides companionship and in-home support for older adults in Lake Country, Summerland, Peachland, Winfield, and Oyama. Regular companionship can give older adults more opportunities to share their experiences, maintain social connections, and feel heard. Contact us to talk about companionship that makes room for your stories.