Elaine Soloway, a Chicago writer and mother of two, was moved to write "My first scene with old people" after observing the deteriorating condition of her mother. Her experiences inspired the Emmy Award-winning television show "Transparent." In one episode, a white-haired woman in a wheelchair is surprised by a family member. She is presented with balloons, and the caregivers clap and cheer. One relative even places a child's party hat on her head.