Don't worry not everyones standards are dropping. Enroute charts (both hi and low level) are out on our flight decks and the PNF will make a mention to the other guy about FIR boundaries and when we can expect a handover. If not handed over when expected we make a nice position report which is usually enough to prompt the controller to pass us on. If nothing heard on a quiet frequency for some time we will ask for a radio check as well.
Also 121.5 is up and monitored usually when we climb through 10,000ft although it can be tedious some days with the amount of double clicking, singing and practice pans going on. Don't get me wrong about the latter, I am all for practice but just wondering whether the powers that be would be better setting up a practice "guard" frequency instead.