Gift Wrapping Ourselves: The Final Gift Exchange

Marx, J. I., Solomon, J. C., & Miller, L. Q. (2004). The Journals of Gerontology: Series B: Psychological Sciences and Social Sciences, 59(5), S274–S280. DOI: 10.1093/geronb/59.5.s274.

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Summary

Examines the transfer of cherished possessions later in life as a kind of final gift exchange, describing how a giver's attachment to an heirloom or keepsake doesn't guarantee the intended recipient shares the same attachment -- a mismatch the authors treat as a real, recurring pattern rather than an occasional misunderstanding.

Key findings

The giver's own attachment to a possession they wish to pass on does not reliably predict the recipient's interest in or attachment to that item.

GiftNav takeaway

When an heirloom-style gift is being considered, ask about the recipient's actual interest and available space, and share the object's story rather than assuming it explains itself.

Limitations & cautions

Theoretical/review framing on possession transfer near end of life, not an experimental test of gift preferences.

Themes

Used in these research topics

Last reviewed September 14, 2026.

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