Here we are into November when the weather seems cold and damp. I know for some of you it is the time when aches and pains seem to be accentuated. Other than being a bit annoying there is always the question about how we can help ourselves.

The other day as we looked for a handle to attach to the bathtub for safety I was impressed with the number of things a person could buy to help with certain body location problems. Like they say it is location, location, location.

I found what I needed at a local drugstore. A good idea to check the hardware store or a Sears catalogue that I know has help aides for us.

There were the supports for knees, wrists, necks and so on. Besides that there were a number of canes that would help some. I could see that there was a cart/walker that had some space for a few shopping items.

Now if you are like me where you find a regular toilet a bit tough to rise from there were a number of things you could put on your toilet seat to give you good chance of getting on with your day. One advantage to the old outhouse. Built for comfort.

Another handy thing was something you could sit on in a chair of your choice. It was spring loaded helping you get out of the chair. It was geared to certain weight levels. Mind you be careful you don’t get the wrong one. Might project you into the next room.

Sore feet? A good selection of swirly type foot massagers. I have one of those. Very nice indeed. Trouble breathing when the air is dry? A few choices in air humidifiers. What more could a person want?

Of course you could get a machine to check your blood pressure at home. If you do get one of those take it into your health care provider to make sure it is accurate.

Here’s is one item I thought would be just the ticket for an old lady with saggy parts here and there. It was a breast pump. I said to myself “this is exactly what I need”!! The much younger women working there politely informed me it was not for that purpose. Can’t get everything right.

Just that same day I found myself looking at items to help us along this road of life most interesting.

Before I go today I would like to thank all of you for the response to the column about safety in our homes.

One good suggestion that came to me was about those gismos you get with a car that starts it before you are there. I gather there is a feature that would make the horn go off from a distance as well. Handy to have in your home in case of a fall or needing other help. Mind you, having a modern car is probably a good idea . A neighbour is an excellent feature as well.

Appreciate all your suggestions when you call 250-846-5095. Those e-mails are good at mallory@bulkley.net.