As 2025 draws to a close, many of us take time to celebrate the good times and reflect on the year’s challenges. Each new year offers an opportunity for personal growth and planning. With that in mind, now is the perfect time to gather thoughtful questions to ask your aging parents about their experiences over the past year—considering both moments of laughter and joy, as well as those that brought stress or discouragement.

 

Getting the Dialogue Flowing

Before starting the conversation, choose a time and place that feels comfortable and private, free from distractions. When you begin, make eye contact and listen attentively—these small gestures show genuine care. To help spark meaningful dialogue, here are some questions you can use as a starting point.

  1. What’s one thing that made you smile this week?
  2. How do you usually spend your mornings or evenings?
  3. How have you been feeling physically and emotionally lately?
  4. Are there any changes you’d like to make to your daily routine?
  5. What’s your favorite way to unwind after a busy day?
  6. Any other concerns you would like to talk about?

 

Home Environment and Safety

A comfortable and safe home is key to feeling your best. These questions can help you start an open, honest chat about your parents’ living space, their comfort, and any safety needs.

  1. Do you feel comfortable and happy living in your current home?
  2.  Are there any rooms or areas that feel difficult to use or navigate?
  3. Do you have enough space for the things you enjoy doing (hobbies, family visits)?
  4. Are there any changes you’d like to make to feel more at ease at home?
  5. Do you feel confident that your home is secure (locks, alarms, emergency contacts)?
  6. Is the temperature in your home comfortable year-round?

Social Interaction and Companionship

Building and maintaining meaningful social connections is just as vital as caring for physical health. Use the following questions to explore your loved one’s social experiences and find ways to support their need for companionship.

  1. Who do you enjoy spending time with the most these days?
  2. Are there any friends or family members you’d like to reconnect with?
  3. What activities make you feel most connected to others?
  4. Do you feel you have enough opportunities to socialize each week?
  5. Are there any community events or groups you’d like to join?
  6. Do you ever feel lonely? What could help you feel more connected?

 

Financial Planning

Planning ahead can really put your mind at ease. To help your loved one feel confident and organized, try asking these questions to make sure their finances are handled the way they want.

  1. Do you have a list of your monthly expenses and income sources?
  2. Do you have a plan for paying bills on time—such as automatic payments or reminders?
  3. Are there any financial tasks that feel overwhelming or stressful for you?
  4. Do you have someone you trust who can help with finances if needed?
  5. Are there any subscriptions or recurring charges you’d like to review or cancel?
  6. Do you have financial goals for the next year, such as saving for a trip or reducing expenses?

 

Reflecting on the Year and the Future

Taking time to look back on the past year is a wonderful way to cherish happy moments and learn from challenges. These prompts can help your loved one reflect on what mattered most and start planning for 2026.

  1. What activities brought you the most joy this year?
  2. Are there hobbies or interests you’d like to spend more time on next year?
  3. Is there a space in your home you’d like to improve or use differently next year?
  4. Are there friends or family you’d like to see more often in the coming year?
  5. Would you like to join any new groups or community activities?
  6. How can a Villi Companion support your goals going forward?

 

Enhancing Quality of Life for Aging Loved Ones

Engaging in these types of meaningful conversations provides comfort and understanding for both you and your loved one. It is always beneficial to discuss the past year—including experiences, lessons learned, and future aspirations.

By having these discussions and taking these considerations into account, you can offer the best support to your aging parents. Furthermore, the insights gained can assist a Villi Companion in improving your loved one’s quality of life.

 

 

The Villi team is here to help.

Do you need help with a loved one?  Then, consider Villi’s homemaker and companionship services. Our team of friendly, compassionate Companions takes great pride in serving people in their community who need light assistance with daily chores, some company and conversation, or convenient transportation for errands, appointments, or trips to the store.

Explore our services to learn more about our:

  • Homemaker and companionship services
  • Easy-to-use scheduling platform
  • “Best Value” service pricing
  • Only 1-hour service minimum

 

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If you have questions about our services, please call 1-844-624-5646 to speak to one of our caring service Advisors.

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