Dear Paul B,
I am 84 and in great health. I am aware of the many issues and problems and matters that plague seniors. I suffer from the “repeated question” issue. My granddaughter had mentioned that I tend to ask the same question more than once (sometimes three times.) I realized that she was so right. It drove her (and other friends) nuts! When I think of something that I would like to ask, I now make a list and check it off when I have found the answer. How simple was that? Nobody likes to sound like a demented old coot, least of all me. I have paper pads near each phone and I use them often. Now, when I catch any friend or young person repeating themselves, I jump on them like a line-backer. Two can play at this game, you know.
Aunt Emily
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Dear Auntie,
I have an Auntie Em too (just like Wizard of Oz) and I love her dearly. Your idea is fantastic, and so simple. When my Mom calls me, she always dwells on three rotating topics or more, and often jumps from one to another. I may need a stenographer for assistance with her. Another issue, since we’re “on the subject,” involves seniors almost shouting to us. I know they cannot hear very well, however, we can! I find myself holding the phone a foot from my ear. Seniors, listen up—remember who you’re talking to and adjust your volume. Thank you.
Another idea, Auntie Em. Ask your children, grand-kids questions about school, friends, and their interests and hobbies. They love to talk about their passions and studies. When seniors talk about operations,dentists, knee replacements, arthritis,colon cancer and friends dying, it’s quite a bummer, right?
Paul B
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Let’s let our seniors say what they like, not police them into the opposite.