HELPFUL HINTS

DEAR HELOISE: My doctor and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have stated that plastic face shields to prevent the spread of covid-19 are ineffective, yet many people are attending church wearing them. Would you please let people know that plastic face shields are not masks and are only effective if there is a mask under it? Thank you.

— Marcia P., via email DEAR

READER: “Ineffective” may be a strong word, but the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (www.cdc.gov) state that “plumes of droplet particles” can escape from under and around a plastic face shield, so a cloth face mask combined with a plastic face shield is a good combination.

Experts say to continue with all covid-19 protocols: frequent handwashing, social distancing, staying home if you are sick, and yes, wearing face masks. A face shield is an added layer of protection, but it should be worn in concert with a cloth face mask.

DEAR HELOISE: We love this idea. On Christmas morning, each child has their own trash bag for easy cleanup. We take turns opening presents, marveling at how much we love them, acknowledging who gave them and then go on to the next person.

When we now share Christmas with our adult siblings and their families, this is an all-morning affair, but fun. (We also include gag items.) The best part? This helps to instill appreciation.

— Vicki J., Orange, Calif.

DEAR READER: It’s in the bag! Thanks for sharing. Readers, what are some fun gag gifts for very last-minute shoppers?

DEAR HELOISE: As a senior citizen, I’ve made a list of things to gift a retiree that would be more appreciated than another knickknack or item that will crowd the downsized home. Offer to do things that require getting up on a ladder:

■ Change the smoke detector or wireless doorbell battery.

■ Take down or put up seasonal decor.

■ Clean A/C and heat vents.

■ Dust fan blades.

■ Change time on clocks hung up high.

Or:

■ Vacuum their car. m Turn the mattress. m Polish silver.

■ Give Christmas stamps. m Insulate faucets.

■ Rake leaves, shovel snow, sweep the sidewalk.

— Bonnie D., Kerrville, Texas