The journals of gerontology. Series B, Psychological sciences and social sciences
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This qualitative study examines the "final gift exchange" process by which older adults give cherished possessions in return for lasting appreciation. ⋯ By applying the heuristic, we observed that a lack of shared definitions of the meaning and value of objects created dilemmas in disposing of personal objects, particularly those connected to a person's material self. We also offer suggestions for making the process go more smoothly, such as inquiring about the preferences of others and telling stories associated with objects to create shared definitions of the objects' significance to the giver and/or to family history.