• The right card can help the 80-year-old honoree have fun.Alistair Berg/Digital Vision/Getty Images
  
  A man's 80th is a milestone birthday and signifies that he has made it to four-fifths of a century. Birthday cards and good wishes should focus on his accomplishments and what the oncoming years might bring. Birthday cards for 80-year-old men can be either heartfelt or humorous, but should convey the message that you care.
  
  

Humorous

• Laughter is the best medicine, so give the birthday boy a card with a funny sentiment or image to help keep him lighthearted and jovial. References can include his age and the stereotypical troubles that come with it, or hobbies and pastimes, or can rib him about the absurd "dirty old man" character. Most humorous cards are tasteful, though if you find one that you might think is offensive, get a second opinion. When you find the perfect card, add a thoughtful note of your own inside.
  
  

Sentimental

• Find a card that expresses your sentiments and affections for the birthday honoree. Serious and heartfelt cards can convey a message that you have difficulty expressing yourself. Choose a card that relates to a time when he taught you an important lesson or a difficult time when he was there for you. Look at online and local specialty card stores for special message cards. Also, you can inscribe your own message inside the card.
  
  

Homemade

• Handmade cards shouldn't be only for children to give; they can help express your true feelings for the birthday celebrant. Model your card on the shape of an average card, and then increase the scale of your card to make your message bigger. Choose a personal episode to write about, or compose a simple rhythmic or free verse poem for the inside. Decorate the outside of the card with photos of the birthday boy.