Author: jhatemroy

Question: My parents are getting older, and I would love to record an oral history. However, I don’t know where to begin and don’t want to seem too intrusive. Have you got any suggestions? Answer: It’s a recent trend in books and magazines to sum up subjects or periods of history by discussing a series of carefully—or…

Question:  I have been driving for more than 50 years, but recently noticed that my parallel parking skills are not what they used to be. I also tend to avoid driving at night, especially in the rain, because the reflections in the puddles on the road distract me. Should I consider giving up my car?…

Question: I owe a sizable amount on several credit cards. This past year, I was hospitalized and had to charge my deductibles and some medications. In addition, I had to replace the transmission on my car. I can afford to pay only the minimum amount due on these credit cards. I have never been in…

The Americans with Disabilities Act has made a world of difference for millions across our country since it was signed into law in 1990. As we celebrate its 31st anniversary, we can see how it has changed our physical environment for the better. We see its effect every day in the ramps that make it…

Q: For the past several years, I was the primary caregiver for my elderly parents before they died. Now my husband has become wholly reliant on me for his care. I am exhausted and getting deeply discouraged. I keep hearing the same thing from people, that I’ve got to take better care of myself. But…

Q: I have a casual acquaintance I’ll call Sarah. Together, we go out to dinner or attend social events. When we pick Sarah up, I am never invited into her home. A mutual friend described the apartment as extremely cluttered, with piles of newspapers, magazines, and clothes covering almost every surface. My friend is convinced…

This weekend, communities around the country will recognize and celebrate Juneteenth, an important annual holiday commemorating the end of slavery in the United States. Many of us were taught in school that slavery ended with the signing of the Emancipation Proclamation in 1863. Unfortunately, in many parts of our country, the practice continued. On June…

Q: My daughter and son-in-law both lost their jobs this past year due to the pandemic. They still haven’t found secure employment and decided it was best for their two children to move in with me. They needed an internet connection, which I had installed. However, the cost has become a hardship for me, and I’m…

Q: I have spent the last 15 months leaving home only for the most essential reasons. I occasionally saw close neighbors but always wore a face covering and kept a safe distance. Since I live by myself, this was a very lonely time. I felt fortunate to get the vaccine once it became available to people…