What to Talk About With Your Senior

Donna Nichols • September 14, 2023
Two women are sitting on a couch looking at a photo album.

Never be at a loss for words again.


Have you ever been at a loss over what to talk to your parents or grandparents about? If you ask questions such as, how are you, you are asking one sided answer questions. Elderly people love conversing with others, especially family members and often feel left out of conversations.


Here at Assisted Living Made Simple , we came up with some questions to ask that will help them join in the conversation and keep them engaged longer.


1. Did you ever play any tricks on your parents and what was the worst trick? Hopefully this will bring up some funny memories for them and tell you a little more about them. Perhaps you’ll find out you have more in common with them than you realize.


2. What was your first car and how did you pay for it? Maybe your parents or grandparents were really cool and had a Mustang convertible or some really cool car like that. Finding out how they paid for it can tell you something about how they may have struggled to raise enough money to afford a car.


3. Were you ever fired from a job? This may seem like an open-ended question, but you can try to pry if they just answer with a “no”. Try to keep the conversation going with more questions like really, not even close?


4. What is the worst thing you ever got in trouble for? Oh boy! You could be opening a whole bag of worms here!! This subject may keep them talking longer than you like, but at least they’ll be conversing; let them go with it and enjoy!


5. Did you ever face any disadvantages? You may find out they lived through the great recession, or perhaps saw many people die from polio, you never know what you may find out when asking some of these questions.


6. What did you think of me when you first saw me? This is where you can find out the truth about what they thought of you, if they tell you the truth (HAHA)! Actually, this answer may make you cry, so get out the Kleenex prior to asking this question.


7. What did you learn about life? You may find you have learned some of the same things they learned, or you may learn that they really do know what they’re talking about!


8. What five things have you discovered that are most important in life? Here’s another question that may help you learn some very interesting things about your loved one(s). You may find out they’re so much smarter than you think.


9. Did you find the happiness you were looking for? This could be another question to have the Kleenex ready; it could be a real tear-jerker of an answer.


And then the last question . . .


10. What does it take to be happy? Who really knows what it takes to be happy? An elderly person will know what happiness is more than we do because their journey has been a lot longer than ours. Remember, they have been through it all, the good, the bad, the ugly. If anyone knows what it takes to be happy, it could be your parents or grandparents.



When visiting with your elderly relatives and are at a loss of what to talk about, try using some of the above questions to start an engaging conversation. You could learn more about life than you ever expected to and also hear some funny stories and gain incredible wisdom.

An elderly woman and a young woman are laughing together.

Beating the Florida Summer Heat

By Donna Nichols • July 7, 2025
Florida summers come in three flavors: hot, hotter, and what fresh hell is this? Whether you're a lifelong local or newly initiated into the Sunshine Sweat Fest, you know it’s more survival sport than season. So, how do we stay cool without losing our cool? Here’s your sun-savvy guide to getting through it. Make hydration a hobby Not just water, electrolytes are your best friends when you're sweaty. Coconut water, cucumber-mint spritzers, watermelon slices. If your drink doesn’t sparkle, chill, or drip condensation like a rom-com montage, it’s not summer-ready. Dress for success and summertime Loose, light, breathable fabrics. Cotton, linen, or the holy grail: moisture-wicking. Bonus points for sun hats and SPF clothing that make you look like a beach detective on vacation. Fans ARE your best friends Table fans, ceiling fans, handheld fans—the whole rotation. Keep them oscillating like your thoughts during a political debate. And if you’ve got a cooling towel? You’re royalty. Avoid the “Roasting Hours” From 11 AM to 4 PM, Florida turns into a convection oven. Errands, walks, and yard work? Schedule them early or late. Unless you’re trying to get baked like a Publix cookie—then by all means. Sunscreen is a lifestyle Apply, reapply, then pretend  you're an influencer and do it again. Because nothing says “I’m melting” like a shoulder burn shaped like your purse strap. Eat lightly Cold meals can be your best friend—salads, chilled pasta, and fruit-forward lunches are all options. Bonus points if you serve them on plates fresh from the fridge like the true champion you are. Rest, reset, repeat If the heat’s making you crankier than a mosquito at a citronella convention, take breaks: shade, air conditioning, quiet corners. Recharge without guilt—you’re surviving a sauna with its own zip code. Florida heat might be relentless, but so are we. With humor, hydration, and a healthy dose of stubborn grace, we ride the wave and keep the ice cubes coming. Stay cool out there, friends. You’ve got this.

Honoring Independence Day with Grace

By Donna Nichols • July 2, 2025
Not every 4th of July needs to burst with fireworks. For many older adults, especially those with tender hearing, health challenges, or a fondness for quieter joys, Independence Day can be just as meaningful in a slower rhythm. It’s the scent of something delicious simmering nearby, the comfort of a cool seat and a cherished show, and the simple dignity of being remembered; of having made it this far, with stories to tell and wisdom that still glows brighter than any sparkler. Caregiver Tips for a Thoughtful 4th: Keep things soft and soothing. Loud sounds can be jarring for seniors with sensory sensitivities, dementia, or PTSD. Choose instrumental patriotic music or old-time radio shows that bring joy without overwhelming them. Build a gentle plate. Soft, easy-to-eat favorites like tender pulled chicken, mashed potatoes, or a festive red, white, and blue parfait (layered Greek yogurt, mashed berries, and crushed graham crackers) keep things celebratory without strain. Spark memories, not stress. Bring out family photo albums, classic Americana films, or even music from their youth. Columbo, The Andy Griffith Show, or golden-age musicals can be a comforting trip down memory lane. Create rest-friendly spaces. A cozy chair near the window, a shaded seat outside, or even a reclined viewing spot for a live TV broadcast of fireworks can help them feel included without fatigue. Let them lead the conversation. Ask about what Independence Day meant to them growing up. You might discover tales of ration books, war bonds, or dancing at VFW halls. These stories are treasures wrapped in the quiet of the day.  In the end, Independence Day is about honoring resilience—the kind that’s quieter, often overlooked, but profoundly enduring. Whether you’re caring for someone, being cared for, or simply holding space for reflection, there’s beauty in choosing peace over spectacle. This Fourth of July, let’s celebrate not just the freedom of a nation but also the freedom to adapt, to rest, and to cherish those we love in the way that suits them best.

Hurricane Season in Florida

By Donna Nichols • June 4, 2025
Florida's paradise of sun-kissed beaches, vibrant culture, and tropical beauty—is also home to one of the most intense annual weather phenomena: hurricane season. From June 1 to November 30, Floridians remain on high alert as powerful storms brew in the Atlantic, each potentially bringing torrential rain, fierce winds, and coastal surges. Understanding hurricane season is crucial for residents and visitors, as it ensures safety and preparedness in the face of nature’s fury. The Impact on Florida Florida has experienced some of the most destructive hurricanes in history, including Andrew (1992), Irma (2017), Ian (2022), Debby, Helene, and Milton (2024). These storms left behind immense devastation, flooding homes, severing power lines, and reshaping entire communities. The economic toll of hurricanes is staggering, affecting local businesses, tourism, and infrastructure. Coastal regions, particularly the Florida Keys and areas along the Gulf Coast, often face the most significant risk. However, inland areas are not immune—wind damage and flooding can wreak havoc miles from the shoreline. Preparing for Hurricane Season Being prepared is the best defense against hurricanes. Here’s how Floridians can safeguard themselves: Stay Informed : Monitor local weather reports and emergency alerts. The National Hurricane Center provides real-time tracking and updates. Create an Emergency Kit : Stock up on essentials, including water, non-perishable food, medications, flashlights, and extra batteries. Don’t forget important documents and pet supplies! Have a Plan : Know evacuation routes and shelter locations. Discuss emergency plans with family members and establish a safe meeting point. Secure Your Home : Reinforce windows, clear debris from your yard, and consider investing in storm shutters if possible. Hurricane season is a reality in Florida, but with preparation and awareness, residents can confidently weather the storm. Whether you’re a lifelong Floridian or a visitor experiencing the Sunshine State, staying informed and ready is key.  Stay safe, stay prepared, and remember—storms may come, but resilience keeps Florida strong.
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