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Dear Heloise: With so many elderly folks falling and breaking a hip, arm, etc., I’ve started mentioning this idea to lots of my (older) friends, and I’ve gotten very positive feedback. When you’re preparing to walk, put your arms out like you are walking on a tightrope. It provides balance, especially at night when it’s difficult to walk steadily. When you get to a door, merely bring your arms around and proceed.
This works, and it saves people money and — more importantly — a lot of pain. I hope you can pass this hint on, Heloise! — Burt S., in Lynchburg, Virginia
Burt, when I need to walk somewhere at night, I take a small handheld light with me, which are usually sold in hardware stores, some gas stations, or even grocery stores. You could also use the flashlight on your smartphone.
If I’m walking my dog in the evening, he has more flashing lights on him than a squad car. I’ve never tried your method, though, and I’ll give it a try whenever I don’t have my light handy. — Heloise
UPDATING A WILL
Dear Heloise: My husband and I made out a will about 18 years ago, but I think it’s time we made out a new one. My husband seems to think that just writing out what we want on paper and signing our names is good enough. I disagree. Even if it’s legal (and in my state, I don’t think it is), it won’t stop any fights over who gets what. — H. and J., in Ohio
H. and J., have an attorney do your will. There are probably a hundred different things you never thought about, such as whether you acquired a valuable asset in the past 18 years, if grandchildren were born during this time, if anyone who was mentioned in the original will died, if you want to donate to your favorite charity, and much more.
You might want to have a family meeting about this matter, but don’t let anyone talk you out of making a will or make any demands for certain items. Each one gets what you decide to give them. — Heloise
MAINE COON CATS
Dear Heloise: My husband wants to get a Maine Coon cat. I know nothing about this breed and worry that it might be aggressive because of its large size. Do you know anything about this breed? — Casey F., in Fairborn, Ohio
Casey, Maine Coon cats are often called gentle giants, as they’re usually very affectionate and love being played with and petted. They are generally longhaired and need to be brushed frequently. They’re skilled hunters, and if you let them outside, they just might bring you a gift like a dead mouse or a bug.
Personally, I’ve always loved this breed. They’re smart, beautiful and great companions. — Heloise
COLD WEATHER REMINDER
Dear Readers: It’s starting to get rather chilly outside, especially at night, in certain areas of the country. Be sure to bring all your pets indoors on cold days and nights. They feel the cold as much as you do.
Also, be sure to give them plenty of water and extra food to help them cope with the cold, especially if they aren’t used to it. Always remember your pet is a family member, too. — Heloise
Send a money-saving or time-saving hint to Heloise@Heloise.com. I can’t answer your letter personally but will use the best hints received in my column.