Life story methods and care for the elderly. An empirical research project in practical theology

The focus of the research project presented in this article is on the structure of the life stories of elderly people living in old age homes and its relationship to wellbeing or quality of life and the quality of the caring relationship. In an experimental design, we are testing the hypothesis that intervention with narrative methods has a positive effect on existential well-being and quality of the caring relationships because of the impact it has on the quality (content and structure) of the life story. We used a specific narrative intervention called the Life Book method in an experimental group of 70 elderly people and provided extra attention to a control group of 30. The theory of narrative identity (Paul Ricoeur) offers some building blocks for developing a tool for assessing the process and structure of the life story and its impact on existential well-being. This project is conceived as an effort in practical theology in the public square. Its particular perspective is that of spiritual care, which is located on the intersection of two social spheres: health and worldview. Possible outcomes are described (including an expected corroboration of our hypothesis (strengthening the caring relationship on microand meso level) and contributions are indicated to narrative theory, theory of care, practical theology and spiritual care and counseling.