Grandparents hold a special place in our families. They share stories, pass down traditions and help us understand where we came from. And often, some of the best things we learn about them come from simply taking the time to ask.
In honor of Grandparents Day on September 13, we’re celebrating the connection between grandparents and grandchildren and encouraging families to make time for the conversations that matter. Because time together gives us a chance to hear the stories we may not know yet.
More Than Memories
Think about the things you know about your grandparents.
Do you know what they were like as children?
Their first job?
How they met their spouse?
What they worried about when they were young?
What made them happiest?
What they consider their greatest accomplishment?
We may know the big moments in someone’s life but not the little stories behind them. Those are often the stories families wish they had asked about sooner.
Sharing Stories Creates Connection
Reminiscing isn’t simply about looking back. Sharing memories can create meaningful conversations today. An old photograph might lead to a story you’ve never heard. A favorite song may bring back memories of a first dance. Preparing a family recipe together might start a conversation about holidays from years ago.
Try asking questions that can’t be answered with a simple yes or no:
“What did you do for fun when you were my age?”
“What was your first car?”
“What was Grandma like when you first met her?”
You may be surprised by what you learn.
Wisdom Worth Passing Down
Grandparents have a lifetime of experience to share. They’ve learned about family, relationships, work, forgiveness and finding joy in everyday life. Sometimes those lessons come through a story. Other times, all it takes is one good question: “What do you know now that you wish you had known at my age?” Then listen.
Connection Doesn’t Have to Be Complicated
Meaningful time together doesn’t require an elaborate outing or special occasion.
Try:
Looking through old photographs together
Cooking a favorite family recipe
Listening to music from their younger years
Taking a drive through a familiar neighborhood
Watching an old movie
Playing cards or a favorite game
Writing down family stories
Recording a conversation on your phone
Asking grandchildren to interview Grandma or Grandpa
Simply sitting together over a cup of coffee
Sometimes the simplest moments are the ones we remember most.
Related: Learn more about why social connection matters as we age in Friendships That Feel Like Family.
When a Grandparent Has Memory Loss
Families sometimes aren’t sure what to talk about or how to spend time together when a loved one is experiencing memory loss. The visit doesn’t have to depend on remembering names, dates or recent events. Instead, focus on enjoying the moment together. Bring photographs. Play familiar music. Hold hands. Sit outside. Share a favorite dessert. Talk about memories that feel comfortable and familiar.
And try not to worry about correcting every detail. The goal isn’t a perfect conversation. The goal is connection. Even if the details of a visit are later forgotten, the comfort and connection felt in that moment still matter.
Stories Worth Saving
Every family has stories that exist because someone remembers them.
Ask the questions.
Write down the answers.
Record the stories.
Learn the recipe that was always made from memory instead of a cookbook.
Find out who’s in those old photographs.
Ask about family traditions and where they started.
Someday, those everyday conversations may become some of your family’s favorite memories.
Celebrating Every Story at Mustang Creek Estates
At Mustang Creek Estates, every resident brings a lifetime of experiences, relationships, traditions and stories worth sharing. Our residential-style homes create opportunities for everyday connection — sharing a meal, enjoying an activity, visiting with family or simply talking with a friend. Because good care is about more than knowing what someone needs. It’s about knowing who they are.
This Grandparents Day, Ask One More Question
You don’t have to capture an entire lifetime in one afternoon. Start with one question. Then ask another. Listen to the stories you’ve heard before and ask about the ones you haven’t. Make the call. Plan the visit. Make the time. Because the stories we hear today become part of our family’s story tomorrow.
Not Sure What to Ask?
Download our 25 Questions to Ask Your Grandparents (PDF) guide for simple conversation starters designed to help you learn more, share memories and keep family stories going.
September 10, 2026