Incalculable harm is done to the relationship between the generations by the complaining (often accompanied by implications of neglect) that comprises the conversation of many of the elderly. I know lots of people who have come to dread phone calls from their parents and especially their answer to the question, “How are you doing?” What could be less interesting and more discouraging than a litany of aches, pains, and bowel difficulties, delivered in the querulous tone of those who realize that what they are suffering from is beyond remedy and getting worse?
