Getting Started

Ways to use the Living Words Program

How to implement

Let the fun begin!

Formats

With a group or on your own, information about ways to do it.

Benefits

Benefits and testimonials

What you will be doing...

Living Words Program can be customized for your goals and needs. Most are interested in implementing the program to have something FUN to do while improving cognitive, social and emotional well-being. 

Typical Format

Living Words Program for Groups:
The benefits are greatest when using the Living Words Program with a group of people. Each meeting is called a "workshop". An activity is selected and planned by the group leader for each workshop (see Activities). Interaction is important, therefore groups of 3 to 10 people are ideal; however large groups (10+) can be split into sub-groups by placing individuals at separate tables or spaces. It is common to run the program over 10 to 12 weeks, with a 1-hour workshop each week. 

Weekly workshop format
An activity (writing, discussion or creative exercise) is planned based on the leader's and group's interests, goals and abilities.
Each workshop has a leader or guest leader to run the activity and provide structure. Individuals write or do the exercise during the workshop time. 
During each workshop there is time for the individuals to SHARE their thoughts or what they created during the exercise. Discussion provides opportunity to interact and get to know each other.

INDIVIDUAL Format:
If you don't have a group, Living Words Program can be done on your own as well. Just choose an activity, write or create, and then reflect on your work through writing or sharing with others.

In-person or virtual:
Due to the COVID pandemic, in-person workshops were swapped for new formats including Zoom and phone calls. 

Benefits of Living Words Program

1. Provides cognitive stimulation
Your brain, like your body, needs new and challenging exercises to remain vital. By using fun activities, it is possible to flex your thinking and creative muscles. 
2. Improve emotional well-being
Reflection and reminiscence upon one's life are important for well-being. "Writing therapy" and "art therapy" are established methods and have been found to alleviate some of the stresses of life.
3. Improve social well-being
Interaction with others (friends and strangers) provides opportunity for unique connections with others. Finding commonalities and understanding perspective can bring people, of all ages, together in important ways.

Ways to Adjust Program to Your Needs

Answer the following questions to help you decide ways to format the program.
​WHO? 
Who will be writing? You, by yourself? A group? If a group, how will you find people to join?
WHERE?
Where will you write? What location would be good for writing (e.g. is it quiet?; have a table?)?
WHEN?
When will you be writing? How often? What day? What time?
WHAT (do you need)?
 What supplies do you need to gather? Do you want to write with pen and paper or on a computer? ​
Which writing activities do you want to try? Are you willing to try different genres of writing?