2210 Open Up
Open Up is a card game designed to encourage people - and particularly those at a later stage in life - to open up and share their stories and memories through conversations. It includes a set of illustrated cards^ to help trigger memories and reflect on life and stories through associations. It can be played between family members, friends, solo or in a care setting.
The idea for the game came up during a conversation with Lisa*, a professional carer in Melbourne. Lisa was – a few times per week – caring for Erica*, an 89-year old living by herself and she was keen to engage the older woman in conversation. You can read Lisa and Erica's full story here.
Being in the moment with the older person who feels listened to and valued can make an enormous difference to their health and wellbeing. Person-to-person contact can help trigger parts of the nervous system to release a cascade of beneficial neurotransmitters, including dopamine, that help manage stress and anxiety. Simple personal interactions can have long-term effects as they increase the levels of trust and lower cortisol levels – and thus reducing stress. Open Up creates the space and time for people to converse, share, feel and above all, connect.
Open Up is a card game designed to encourage people - and particularly those at a later stage in life - to open up and share their stories and memories through conversations. It includes a set of illustrated cards^ to help trigger memories and reflect on life and stories through associations. It can be played between family members, friends, solo or in a care setting.
The idea for the game came up during a conversation with Lisa*, a professional carer in Melbourne. Lisa was – a few times per week – caring for Erica*, an 89-year old living by herself and she was keen to engage the older woman in conversation. You can read Lisa and Erica's full story here.
Being in the moment with the older person who feels listened to and valued can make an enormous difference to their health and wellbeing. Person-to-person contact can help trigger parts of the nervous system to release a cascade of beneficial neurotransmitters, including dopamine, that help manage stress and anxiety. Simple personal interactions can have long-term effects as they increase the levels of trust and lower cortisol levels – and thus reducing stress. Open Up creates the space and time for people to converse, share, feel and above all, connect.
^ I would like to acknowledge the talented graphic designer Handyta Anindyasarathi who helped me bring the game illustrations to life.
* Not their real names.
Photos by Lulu.
* Not their real names.
Photos by Lulu.
