Q: I haven't wanted to talk about this with anybody I know, as it is rather embarrassing. At the end of the day, however, I need some advice. I hope you can help me.
My bladder seems like it's smaller than ever before, and I'm nervous to spend long periods of time outside the house. I'm very fearful of having an accident, as I know it happens to some people.
What can I do?
A: Aging can be a deeply embarrassing process, but it happens to all of us.
You might be surprised if you were to know about all the conditions affecting the people we think we know best. This is especially true of medical issues!
Even more embarrassing, however, is what can happen if you don't address this kind of problem. It's far better to take preventative measures rather than end up in the worst-case scenario. (You know the one.)
Pay more attention to what your body is telling you. Don't wait until it's too late.
One easy change is to be proactive and alter your habits. Use the facilities each time before leaving the house, and keep track of bathrooms in your local haunts.
Avoid drinking anything immediately before bed — especially alcohol, which is a diuretic. Think about doing pelvic floor exercises to strengthen your muscles.
As a backup option, you may want to think about incontinence products. Although there is a stigma against them, companies have worked over the last decade to make more discreet products that look just like your ordinary attire.
Many drug stores and large chains carry these items. Using self-checkout or an online retailer could help remove the major roadblock of having to deal with a cashier.
Additionally, many of us lose our sense of smell past a certain age, without necessarily realizing it. When you wash your intimates, use detergent with bleach — many brands offer an option that works with colors.
Using bleach will keep your clothing much cleaner and avoid any odors. This could equally apply to any sweat or mildew smell on your laundry.
If you're concerned and you don't think this is a normal age-related change, discuss this with your doctor at your next appointment. This could be a sign of a urinary tract infection or diabetes. A doctor's office is the one place where you shouldn't feel hesitant to open up — they've heard and seen it all, and far worse.
Never feel ashamed to take care of yourself. Accommodation is better than denial. — Doug
PRESENTS AND AUTISM
Q: My great-granddaughter's sixth birthday is in a few weeks, and I have no idea what to get her as a present. She has autism, and I know that my grandson and his wife have had difficulty with gifts in the past.
How can I find a good gift?
A: Ask her parents for recommendations and for items to avoid.
Autism is a disorder that varies widely between individuals, and attaining intimate knowledge takes a long time. Presents that others might recommend might not be ideal for your great-granddaughter.
You grandson and granddaughter-in-law can help you with suggestions, which will cut down the uncertainty for all of you.
As general advice, sensory toys (that have interesting textures, lights, etc.) tend to be successful. The best gifts are often those that are the most personal — thought and effort count for a lot. Can you think of anything she loves?
Happy birthday to your great-granddaughter! — 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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