| Description |
The ancient custom of writing an ethical will has seen a resurgence of interest in recent years. This paper expands the concept of ethical wills to a more encompassing form coined as "legacy treasures" and describes the design and presentation of two one hour lessons created to introduce this concept at a local multipurpose senior center. The objectives of these lessons are to introduce legacy treasures, identify benefits, illustrate conceivable components, and explain how to create a legacy treasure. A legacy treasure follows reminiscence or life review which results in an analysis of an individual's talents, interests, values, and life experiences. Once identified, these unique talents and interests are used to create an artistic expression of the individual's values and learned life lessons, leaving a footprint of lasting value to others. The process of creating a legacy treasure can be therapeutic to the creator and of generational benefit to others. The lessons employ learning theories such as transformative learning and applications relevant to adults such as Cohen's studies on creativity. Techniques such as group activities, games, brainstorming, graphic organizers, storytelling, visuals, and reflective questioning pervade the lessons designed. It is hoped that the concept of a legacy treasure becomes a useful tool to improve the lives of aging adults. |
