The way my family showed that we heard you and were responding to what you said was to tell of our OWN experience regarding that subject. But often, especially in a long relationship, they have HEARD that story already.
If someone mentions a subject I sometimes think to myself “this will trigger my dad to tell story #1167 in 3..2..1.”. And then he tells the story and we chuckle at the punchline and pretend it isn't the eleventeenth time we have heard it.
But is waiting to tell them YOUR story on the same subject the same as an actual conversation, and letting the person know you heard and understand their concerns?
I would say not.
It's more like a "rote" conversation (which is good for entertainment or passing the time of day...not always bad necessarily) and not like a "deepening" relationship where you're getting to know the person better.
If there's one thing most wives like their husbands to know...it's the "deepening" kind of conversations they need. Some more than others.