I need a scheme for refreshing toolbars and menu items

The app may have screens which are in add/edit mode or
in view mode (lack of add/edit mode), or other type
of screens may be opened, such as a memo screen.

I tried using properties on the toolbars and menu to
determine when a button/bar should be refreshed, however
other applications may be launched from with this app.

The windows in the external applications may not have the
properties required to evaluate for refreshing.

Any ideas on how to do this?