I don't think it's the older crowds who just do it. My mom does the same thing and she's only 50. There is never a phone conversation that doesn't lead to how worry she is about someone because of some medical problem. I feel bad, but sometimes I just flat out ask if there is anything good going on? She's gotten better about adding good things to the mix, but sometimes I get off the phone so depressed, I just go right to sleep.