Interviewing Older Family Members

Interviewing older family members

Sometimes interviews can feel awkward or stressful.  Here or some tips that will help you have a fun time as you get to know your older relatives:
 
1.  Do something together while they talk.  You could take a drive, go on a walk, put together a puzzle, etc.  

2.  Come with a list of questions, but don't feel frustrated if you don't get through them all, or if the conversation takes a different turn.  Be flexible.

3.  It helps a LOT to look at pictures as you talk.  They will remind your relative of things that happened in the past.

4.  Bring a tape recorder if you can, AND a notebook.  The notebook is to jot down important names, dates, or details, but you mostly want to be looking up and giving the person your attention.  It's not good to be writing frantically the whole time.

5.  Remember to say thanks when you're done!  :)