Worst Possible 40th Birthday Gifts

It's important to choose 40th birthday gifts that celebrate the journey they've taken, not to remind them of unfulfilled dreams and goals.

To avoid the anxiety that this milestone might induce, eliminate any of the "over the hill" gag gifts or 40^th birthday party decorations that are so popular. Unless the recipient is 100 percent comfortable with these kinds of silly presents, stay away from presents that highlight age or imply that the birthday boy or girl is somehow feeble or useless. Here's a list of some of the worst 40^th birthday present ideas ever:

Over the Hill Items. There are plenty of T-shirts, mugs and cards that list the ways that 40-year-olds will never regain their youth and that the best times are behind them. Even though some of these gifts are cleverly worded and meant to be funny, it may irritate a sensitive 40-year-old's spirit to be reminded of it. Avoid anything that reflects this sentiment.

Poor Health. Avoid giving gifts that emphasize the 40-year-old's health. Old geezer canes, hard of hearing cones, gag medical alert devices, oversized diapers and gag virility pill presents will likely not go over well with the birthday person. They may be noticing their body's decline and may have peers who are battling real health issues.

Funeral Items. Many gift and party stores sell milestone birthday items that mimic a funeral, complete with black crepe decorations, mini coffin party favors, tombstones and images of skeletons. You have to be a truly talented comedian to pull off this kind of gift. Don't remind the 40-year-old that they are inching ever closer to their ultimate rest. Although the 40-year-old has usually not lived half their life yet, it's often sobering to think that health and wellness issues will start to decline in the coming decades.