"The emphasis here is on seeing that older people have value. . . . If you tally all the assets and subtract whatever liabilities we have, our portfolios are still much richer because we have been on the planet six, seven, eight decades."
Oral histories also should spur the community "to take action on what the stories reflect," said project director Portillo. It might be the need for improved housing and public safety, or assistance for the growing ranks of grandparents raising grandchildren.
"To get them involved in transforming their communities," Portillo said, "we start at the center of their culture."
Silva's longevity, and her continuing practice of santiguar, have made her a living link to the cultural heritage of Puerto Rico.
She lived alone until just a few years ago, when a widowed daughter, Clotilde, 70, moved in with her.
On a recent day, she and Clotilde were joined at the house by two more daughters, Gloria, 64, and Dolores, 67, and son Candido, 66.
"Mom always tells us, 'I want to bury all of you,' " said Gloria, who initially found that sentiment strange and upsetting.
But considering the searing pain their mother suffered upon their father's death, the siblings have come to accept that she merely means she does not want them left behind.
