Seniors should keep phones nearby
DEAR HELOISE: I’m 81 and love bubble baths. Fortunately, I’m still agile. My cellphone is always with me and responds to my voice if I need to call 911 or any other number. I also pull the plug before getting out, so I won’t drown if there was an accident. Seniors should always have their phones near them and know how to use voice commands.
— Sharon Waitman, Beaumont, Calif.
DEAR HELOISE: In the process of replacing a 20-year-old refrigerator, a ring of dirt was discovered on the vinyl linoleum. I sprayed some laundry stain remover on the floor and used a toothbrush to scrub the ring. Then, I wiped up the floor with a wet rag. Voila! With minimal effort, the ring was gone.
I also had a suggestion for the couple who recently lost their dog, and that is to adopt a new dog or puppy when they feel ready. After losing our almost 18-year-old dog, we found that we did not function well without a “furball” in the house. So, with that knowledge, when we unexpectedly lost our 11-year-old Mini Schnauzer, we started searching for a new puppy soon after. Although we considered other breeds, we came home with a blonde Mini Schnauzer. Almost four and a half years later, Spenser brings joy and laughter to us every day.
I wish them the best of luck. My family loves your column, and we use many hints as well as recipes. Thanks.
— Jennifer, via email
DEAR HELOISE: Good balance is a predictor of longevity. Poor balance can change your life for the worst, especially if you lose your balance and fall. Here are some ways to work on it:
Hold onto something or use a cane if you need help to walk, with the heel of one foot touching the toe of the other foot. Do daily tasks on one foot like waiting for the microwave, brushing your teeth and talking on the phone, for just a few examples. When you are good at these, try it with your eyes closed. It’s all good for your brain, which is your prime motivator.
— Susan, Torrance, Calif.
DEAR READERS: Here’s a nontoxic way to clean dirty dog toys. Mix baking soda and water together, and then scrub the toys with this solution. Dry well.
Also, another baking soda hint: For a relaxing bath, add 1⁄2 cup of baking soda to a tub filled with water.
— Heloise
DEAR HELOISE: I have enjoyed your hints and benefitted from them for many years. Here is my hint for an easy disposal of pizza boxes. I flatten the box and then cut it into 4 small pieces.
The pieces hardly take up any room in the trash can.