Q: Last week when I went to my friend's grandmother's birthday party, I was surprised to see that her grandmother was holding a stuffed animal puppy on her lap. She was busy loving it and happily petting and cuddling it.

I knew her grandmother was struggling with Alzheimer's, and I was pleased to see how happy and contented she was with "Tommy." Her grandmother kept the dog with her for the whole party. I know a bit about her situation, but I didn't know that a lot of people recommend buying a toy animal to help. Toys are no longer just for kids!

After I returned home I told my mother about the puppy, and she wasn't surprised. She has friends who have also successfully used pet plushies to improve their relatives' attitudes and outlooks.

Are many other caretakers aware of how toy pets may prove helpful?

A: I don't have any personal experience with Alzheimer's, but my cousin does. Every patient reacts individually to the condition, and his or her attitude can often change either for the better or for the worse, without any advance warning.

Caretakers who do this work are truly miracle workers. Thank you for sharing this wonderful advice with those who may be unfamiliar!

These toy animals are beneficial because they satisfy a person's need for social interaction and play — without the risk of stressful input and reactions. Anyone looking to help loved ones should definitely consider picking up a toy! — DOUG

MOTHERLY WOES

Q: Mother's Day is around the corner, but lately my daughter and I have been butting heads. She's my only child, and none of our arguments have been serious, but we're definitely not on the same page.

She lives less than an hour away, but I want to make sure that she makes the effort to spend the day with me. How do you think I can make her more agreeable?

A: It's always frustrating to feel at odds with someone you love, but luckily it sounds like there aren't any monumental problems between the two of you, just minor disagreements. The majority of relationship problems are a result of poor communication, so you should focus your efforts on talking to your daughter.

Ask yourself if there's an underlying issue that is the source of your conflict. Parent-child relationships change as we transition through the various stages of our lives, and it may be that you have conflicting expectations for each other. Your daughter is an adult, and it's important for both of you to compromise with each other.

Think about anything that's been bothering you about your relationship, but also make sure to get her perspective. Any conflict has at least two sides, so try to understand her view, too.

At the end of the day, the most important thing is that you love each other. Mother's Day is meant to celebrate your relationship, and it's a great time for you to enjoy each other's company. — Emma, Doug's granddaughter

Doug Mayberry makes the most of life in a Southern California retirement community. Contact him at [email protected]. Betty is a friend of Doug Mayberry, whom she helps write this column. To find out more about Doug Mayberry and read features by other Creators Syndicate writers and cartoonists visit the Creators Syndicate website at www.creators.com.

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