What this does
This prompt helps you create a personalized, thoughtful set of interview questions tailored to your parent’s life, personality, and stage of aging. It guides AI to focus on memories, values, everyday moments, and untold stories—not just dates and facts.
Why it's useful
Family history interviews are emotionally loaded, and many people freeze because they don’t want to say the wrong thing or miss what matters most. This approach removes guesswork, reduces emotional pressure, and helps you capture stories that feel human, not clinical.
Who it's for
This is for adult children, caregivers, and family members who want to preserve memories from aging parents or relatives. It’s especially helpful if conversations feel awkward, time feels limited, or you want to document stories for future generations.
Use This Entire Prompt:
Before you use it, just remember:
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Prompt
I want to interview an aging parent or older family member to preserve their memories and life stories. Help me create a thoughtful, respectful interview guide.
First, suggest a short opening script that explains why I’m doing this in a warm, non-threatening way. Then create a list of open-ended questions organized into sections such as childhood, family traditions, work life, relationships, challenges, proud moments, regrets, everyday memories, and life lessons.
Keep questions gentle, optional, and conversational—avoid anything that feels like an interrogation. Include prompts that invite stories, not just facts.
Also suggest follow-up questions I can use if the person seems engaged. Finally, recommend tips for pacing the conversation, handling emotional moments, and knowing when to pause or stop.
Here is who I’m interviewing: [parent, grandparent, aunt, etc.].
Their current age and health context: [brief description].
The purpose of this interview: [personal keepsake, family archive, written legacy, etc.].
Any sensitive topics to avoid or approach carefully: [optional].
How this helps you
This helps you move from good intentions to meaningful action. You preserve memories that matter, deepen connection, and create something your family can return to for generations—without rushing, pressure, or regret.
