HELPFUL HINTS

DEAR READERS: Today’s Sound Off is about Medicare:

DEAR HELOISE: I tried to find a physician who would take Medicare and found out that many have dropped Medicare. What’s going on?

— H.N., via email

DEAR READER: Many are refusing Medicare because of the paperwork, rules and low reimbursement rates. To find a doctor that accepts Medicare, you can:

■ Search the directory at medicare.gov.

■ Visit an urgent care center. Most accept Medicare.

■ Choose to stay with a doctor you’ve used, but if he won’t take Medicare, you can be charged as much as 15% above normal reimbursement. You might be asked to pay in full at the time of service.

DEAR READERS: Here are new uses for castor oil:

■ A moisturizer for the skin. It’s often used in cosmetics.

■ Reduces acne because of its antimicrobial properties.

■ It helps heal wounds by stimulating tissue growth and reducing dryness and the buildup of dead skin cells.

■ Reduces inflammation and pain through topical application.

DEAR HELOISE: What is the difference between baking powder and baking soda? — Lucille E., Wayne, Neb. DEAR READER: Both are leavening agents, but it’s not uncommon to confuse the two.

Baking soda becomes activated when it is mixed with some sort of acid ingredient (lemon juice, buttermilk) and a liquid. This produces carbon dioxide, which allows baked goods to rise and be light.

Baking powder contains baking soda and the acid needed to make the baked goods rise. Baking powder also needs a liquid to activate the leavening process.

DEAR HELOISE: What can I give my fiancee for Valentine’s Day? She recently lost 65 pounds, so candy is out of the question. Got any suggestions for me and a thousand other guys?

— J.L. in Louisiana

DEAR READER: Yes! Here are a few ideas:

■ A monogrammed terry cloth bathrobe.

■ A simple necklace with her name engraved on a circle or a heart.

■ Perfume (choose her favorite scent).

■ Essential oil diffuser.

■ There are also clubs that send a monthly gift of coffee, tea or wine.

Send a money- or time-saving hint to Heloise, P.O. Box 795001, San Antonio, Texas 78279-5000; fax to (210) 435-6473; or email Heloise@Heloise.com