Helen Dennis

Dear N.T., You clearly have a dilemma. We know that staying home and living alone can be an isolating experience. Pets can ease the void by providing comfort and companionship with unconditional love and affection while fulfilling the human need for physical touch. Furthermore, caring for a pet provides one with responsibility and purpose, a reason to get up in the morning. And there’s more. According to studies, interacting with a dog or cat can lower your blood pressure and

Q. I have a project in mind during this pandemic. Having missed this from my parents, I would like to write down my history for my kids and grandchild. Being 85+ and going through 2020 and 2021 has given me the desire to look at my life journey and hopefully to have the future generations know me a little better. My six Zoom classes have given me the desire to go ahead with this project. Fortunately, my mental facilities are still good and exceed my ambulatory/balance motor s

Q. I hope I am not too young to ask a question for your column. I am 53 years old, a mom with two great kids, active and work full-time. I rarely think about my age until I recently went to get my car washed. When I got ready to pay, I realized I was being charged a lower price than usual. I asked if there was a special today. The cashier, a young woman of about 20 years replied, “No, that’s the senior discount.” I’m not embarrassed about my age but I felt categorized and a b

I usually am a happy person and grateful to have health, financial security and food on the table. Given the profound loss of loved ones, jobs, the virus setbacks and all of the other tragic results of this pandemic, I almost feel guilty with my concern. With all that I have, I am not experiencing moments of contentment or happiness. And I am reminded of the word as we all wished one another Happy Holidays and Happy New Year. I just don’t feel it. Is there anything I can do t

Last week, C.N. indicated she needed a little lift during this COVID time and asked what the Successful Aging column could do to help. As part of an HBO special, we showcased quips from four legendary comedians in their 90s: Carl Reiner, Norman Lear, Mel Brooks and Dick Van Dyke. This week we feature quotes from four women in their 90s for a bit more levity with a message. Age doesn’t matter according to Angela Lansbury. Lansbury, age 95, has been on stage, television and in