Most mothers (80%) and grandmothers (74%) say they would rather spend time with family than receive a gift on Mother’s Day. Speaking as a mother myself, and knowing my own mother and step-mother (and mother-in-law), this does not surprise me.

Here are some ideas that I found on a site for an e-mail type product—Presto—that allows the sender to send e-mail, but the receiver to simply receive a printout of the message. Ideal for folks who don’t want a computer, but want to hear from you (or your children) once in a while.

In this digital age, e-mail is probably the communications method of choice for many, but there are others that do not have Internet access or simply choose not to be online. A family communication survey conducted by Harris Interactive® on behalf of Presto Services, Inc. found that about three out of four mothers (76%) and more than half of grandmothers (60%) agreed that advancements in technology, such as cell phones and e-mail, sometimes leave the older generations feeling left out.

In fact, when asked why they prefer not to use the latest technology, such as e-mail, to communicate with family members, about 8 out of 10 mothers (77%) and grandmothers (79%) said they prefer other means of communication, such as regular mail and phone. This could cause a greater communication gap between generations, as grandkids seem to be constantly logging onto MySpace or sending text messages to their pals.

Although 61% of grandmothers said they would like to be in touch with their grandchildren more regularly, recent trends suggest that today’s youth has become embedded in the digital lifestyle and the chances of them picking up the phone or writing a letter to grandma are unlikely.

Technology is not the only barrier when it comes to family communication. As families move farther apart, it becomes increasingly difficult for loved ones to communicate on a regular basis, causing many to lose touch and miss out on cherished family moments. According to the study, 8 out of 10 mothers (81%) and grandmothers (79%) wish they could share more everyday moments with family members they do not see often, and 65% of mothers and 71% of grandmothers agree that their relationships with their children or grandchildren would grow if they shared in each other’s lives by staying in touch more often.

“Communication is the key to a healthy relationship, especially for families that want to maintain that special bond,” said Donna Erickson, family expert and host of PBS’ Donna’s Day. “If a family member is not online, there are plenty of methods that can be used to keep in touch and share special, everyday moments.” Erickson recommends the following tips to stay in touch with technology-shy family members.

  • SEND A POST CARD each month to share the latest news. A post card is much more fun than a letter and the pictures create a great visual to bring the note to life.
  • PICK UP THE PHONE at least once a week. Even if there is nothing new to share, making a quick call helps to stay connected.
  • MAKE TIME FOR A VISIT, especially for those that live nearby. If distance plays a role, make a concerted effort to plan a monthly or even yearly visit.
  • TOOLS FOR THE TECH-SHY make regular communication easier. Products like the Presto Service and HP Printing Mailbox and Jitterbug cell phones are perfect for grandma, grandpa or Aunt Betty.

The Presto Service and HP Printing Mailbox lets users receive e-mail and digital photo attachments without a computer. Tech-savvy family and friends can continue to use the convenience of their own e-mail accounts, while grandma, grandpa or Aunt Betty can receive family updates and photos everyday. Presto is available at most major electronics stores and online.

I do not have direct experience with the Presto Service, but it sounds like it could be great. Has anyone out there tried it?

—Lori Woehrle