One of the most telling examples of our culture’s regard for elders is the way caregivers often relate to them. Well intentioned caregivers often talk down to the person at home, as if they were children.  I remember resisting baby talk when I was raising my daughter and the same is true with elders. They may be frail, have trouble seeing, or hearing, or walking, but they are not incapable of irony, or a witty response, a good giggle, or having some silly fun. They can also do alot for themselves with some help. For example, if seeing is difficult, operating…