Q: I can't seem to keep the technology I have functioning right. I'm always running into problems, especially with my landline phone and television remote.
I'm starting to think that I'm just too old to keep up with technology. My family still lives in the area and is willing to come over and help me with my problems. But it's a little embarrassing to have my grandkids come over and find that I have a problem with a 30-second fix.
What should I be doing differently?
A: Unfortunately, technology is always changing, and it's hard to keep on top of. Simple things such as finding a TV channel are complicated by several steps that come along with today's increased options and functionalities.
Before assuming that the technology is inherently impossible and glitchy, make sure that you're doing what you need to do on your end to keep it running. Sometimes, there's a simple solution.
Once it gets harder to hear the dial tone of our phones, many problems seem to suddenly arise. It's harder to tell the difference between a phone that's functional and one that is not.
I've found myself facing several problems with my own phones (both landline and cellphone)! There have been many times when I've thought the phone was kaput only to find that the battery was dead. I had forgotten to charge it.
You may be used to keeping the phone away from its charger. Not being able to hear the low-battery warning beep causes problems. The same is true for your TV remote, so keep batteries on hand.
The most rudimentary fix for tech problems is to turn the device off, wait 30 seconds and then turn it back on again.
Next time a family member comes over to help you with a technology problem, watch how they do it. Especially if it's a recurrent problem, you can write down a list of steps for next time.
Even if it feels impossible, small changes can make for big results! You can become less dependent with a few habit alterations. — Doug
FOOT CARE
Q: My daughter and granddaughters are looking to spend time together for my upcoming birthday and suggested we all go for pedicures.
I ended up declining, and we made other plans, but what worries me is my discomfort with having anybody see my feet.
I can't bend over to touch my toes anymore, and it's hard to see my feet well enough to take care of them. I have terrible dry skin and bunions, in addition to two terribly ingrown toenails.
I've been too embarrassed to have somebody look at them, but I just got a reality check. I'm ready to address the problem.
What can I do?
A: Look into the possibility of a medical pedicure.
Scheduling an appointment will put you in touch with an experienced professional, and your insurance may even cover it. The medical professional will know how best to deal with damaged nails and can give you some self-care suggestions.
For people with diabetes, taking care of ones' nails is especially important. Many people lose nerve connectivity in their feet and can't easily identify incipient infections in their vulnerable extremities. Left untreated for long enough, these infections can lead to serious complications.
It's not commonly talked about, but many seniors have problems with caring for their feet. There's no need to feel embarrassed, as the person you go to has likely seen it all already!
Taking preventative care of yourself will save you future trouble. — Emma, Doug's granddaughter
Doug Mayberry makes the most of life in a Southern California retirement community. Contact him at deardoug@msn.com. Emma, Doug's granddaughter, helps write this column. To find out more about Doug Mayberry and read features by other Creators Syndicate writers and cartoonists visit the Creators Syndicate website at www.creators.com.
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