GIFT IDEAS TO BRIDGE THE GENERATION GAP

Sometimes it seems as if elderly people live in another world. Some of them are suspicious technophobes, sure that all those new-fangled gadgets will push the planet to the edge of annihilation. Others try desperately to look and feel young, and be accepted by the young. Some think that computers were invented by the devil, while others are happy with the freedom the new technology brings. Before we can successfully buy gifts for them, we have to get to know them.

What are their living arrangements? Do they still have the house they raised their children in, or have they moved to a smaller place, or a nursing home? If space is at a premium, forget that cute figurine, funky poster or life-size giraffe sculpture.

What are their tastes? Do they want everything like "the good old days", or are they open to new experiences? Are they still actively collecting something, or do they prefer to show off what they have accumulated, without adding any more? Are they overloaded with activities, or so they sit at home day after day, hoping for a visitor? What do they like to do? Do they have any hobbies?

What is their financial situation? Are they well-heeled, or lacking in the bare necessities of life?

What is their health status and mobility? If you are considering a food gift, what are their dietary restrictions? Is their hearing and vision impaired? Do they still have a vehicle, or would they appreciate a ride to the movies or the mall? Do they need help with gardening, cleaning, or home maintenance?

What is their social life like? Are they proud grandparents? What activities do they enjoy?

Some seniors are delighted by any kind of invitation to a meal, a social or cultural event, a shopping trip, a card game, or a massage session, and easily give themselves over to the business of having fun. Others are more reluctant to participate. They may feel too tired, too depressed, or too shy. They may be grieving absent children, a deceased spouse, and lost youth. Some of them may insist that they don't want anything except to be left alone. They may have become housebound, afraid to go out or try anything new. If we want to be helpful, we must assess the situation, accept things as they are, and respond to the needs we observe while respecting our friends' dignity, individuality and independence.

Centerpiece arrangements, cut flowers, or plants may add life to the elder's home. If

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