‘This Is Your Life You Have to Live with the Memories’: Older UK Migrant Women’s Reflections on Living with the Past

Memories collected across the life-course often inform our sense of who we are and what is important to us as we grow older. This presentation draws on the findings of a qualitative life-history research study, undertaken in the North of England, that set out to explore older migrant women’s quality of life across the life course. It provides insight into two key issues. First, how personal and social memories shape perceptions of ethnic identity, and second the extent to which memories of life-altering events continue to influence the present. A main aim is to show the significant impact that memories have on older migrant women’s sense of identity and well being as they grow older. Additionally, to contribute to the development of an approach to the study of ageing that does not consign memories to the past but is able to theorise their impact on the present.