Striking up an interesting conversation with a senior loved one helps you bond with them and learn valuable information about their life. Whether they’re in an assisted living or active retirement community, reminiscing about their favorite memories can be a positive and moving experience. Below are a few questions to ask them to strike up a fascinating conversation. 

What Conversations Should You Have With a Senior Loved One

1. Favorite People

Asking your loved one about some of the favorite people in their life will bring up a lot of memories and can help you learn more about your family and their lifestyle. Ask them who their favorite cousin was, who their best friend was growing up, and if they had a teacher or mentor that stood out to them.

2. First Experiences

This conversation starter has a world of potential. You can ask them about their first date or kiss, the first person they loved, or the first time they drove a car. Asking them about the first time they saw the ocean, traveled out of the country, or when they found out they were going to be a parent are also topics they’ll be excited to talk about. Plus, these could all naturally lead to other conversations.

3. Favorite Entertainment

This one is fantastic if your loved one enjoys music, movies, or books. As a bonus, you’ll know what to bring them on your next visit to their retirement community. Ask them about their favorite movie genre, what the best decade in music was, who their favorite authors and artists are, if they played the original Atari® or Nintendo®, and what books, movies, or songs helped shape their life. Then, make the effort to watch, listen, read, or play with them.

4. Childhood Memories 

This one depends on your loved one’s memory care needs, as they may not remember their childhood. If they do, ask how they grew up. Was it on a farm or in a city? What age did they start working? Did they enjoy school, and what were their best subjects? What did they do when they weren’t in school? What were their parents like? What key experiences from their childhood shaped them into who they are today?

Longhorn Village in Austin, TX, is a retirement community that offers a wide range of additional services. Since 2009, they have offered skilled care that goes beyond, with a UT partnership that offers residents discounted education, fine arts, travel opportunities, campus facilities, and enriching events. Learn more about their Life Care services online, and call (512) 266-5600 for a tour of Longhorn Village today.