Their Story Is Your Story

Their Story Is Your Story: A Gentle Reminder to Sit With Your Parents, Listen, and Look Through the Albums

As our parents age, we often find ourselves balancing two worlds: the practical needs of planning for their future… and the emotional weight of honoring their past.

At Elder Moves Real Estate, we see this every day. Families begin thinking about downsizing, transitioning to single-level living, or exploring assisted living options, and suddenly the conversations shift from logistics to legacy.

As you visit with family this holiday season, take a moment to ask your parents about their story — because their story is your story.

Why These Conversations Matter

1. Stories Give Meaning to the Process

When it’s time to prepare for a move, families start opening closets, pulling out boxes, and flipping through photo albums.
Very quickly, what begins as “What do we keep?” becomes:
“Let me tell you about this.”

These stories help families:

• Understand what truly matters to their loved one

• Separate meaningful keepsakes from everyday clutter

• Approach decisions with empathy rather than stress

• Feel connected during a time of transition

2. Photo Albums Unlock Memories No One Wants to Lose

There is something almost magical about old photographs. A single picture can spark a forgotten memory or a story never told before. From childhood homes, family vacations & extended family members. These stories become part of your family’s history, and without asking, many of them will disappear.

3. Listening Gives Your Parents the Gift of Being Seen

Aging can sometimes make older adults feel invisible. But when you sit with them, turn the pages, and ask gentle questions, you give them something powerful: acknowledgement, connection & the dignity of being heard. 

Questions That Open the Door

You don’t need a long list — just curiosity and presence. A few simple prompts can create beautiful conversations:

• “What memory stands out most from this photo?”

• “Who were you closest to growing up?”

• “What is one tradition you’re glad we still have?”

• “What was the happiest time in your life?”

• “What lesson did life teach you the hard way?”

These questions strengthen bonds long before decisions about downsizing need to be made.

How This Helps With Downsizing Later

Families often feel overwhelmed when it’s time for a parent to move, but when you’ve spent time hearing their stories, the process becomes clearer, gentler & collaborative. 

At Elder Moves Real Estate, we support families through every step of that transition, but these early conversations are the foundation that make the process smoother and more compassionate.

A Simple Invitation

Before the seasons change, before schedules get busy, & before a move becomes urgent…

Sit down with your parents.
Open an album.
Ask them to tell you a story.

Their memories are part of your legacy, and someday you’ll be grateful you paused long enough to listen.