Questions to Ask Aging Parents Before It’s Too Late

Time has a way of slipping past quietly. One day you realize there are things you never asked your parents—about their childhood, their hopes, their regrets. The details fade, and so do the voices that carry them.

If you still have the chance to talk with your aging parents, consider making space for a deeper conversation. Here are some questions that can help you go beyond surface-level memories and preserve what really matters.

Family & Childhood

• What was your childhood home like?

• Who were you closest to in your family?

• What were some of your favorite traditions growing up?

• What’s a memory that still makes you laugh?

Life & Identity

• What did you dream of becoming when you were young?

• What do you feel most proud of?

• What were some of the biggest challenges you faced?

• How did those experiences shape who you are?

Love & Relationships

• How did you meet your partner?

• What did you learn about love over the years?

• What advice would you give about marriage or raising kids?

Values & Beliefs

• What do you believe matters most in life?

• How has your view of the world changed as you’ve aged?

• What legacy do you hope to leave behind?

Reflections

• What’s something you wish more people understood about you?

• Is there anything you never got to do, but wish you had?

• What do you want your grandchildren (or great-grandchildren) to know about you?

These questions aren’t just prompts—they’re openings for presence, healing, and connection. Don’t worry about getting through a list. Let the conversation unfold naturally, and follow where it leads.

You may find that your parent shares something they’ve never told anyone.

Preserve the Conversation

At Timeless Legacy Videos, we create one-on-one video interviews with older adults, capturing their life stories, memories, and wisdom. It’s a powerful way to honor their legacy—and give future generations a meaningful connection to their roots.

Learn how it works