Q: I came down with a serious case of pneumonia two years ago and, thankfully, got better. Unfortunately, my doctor found out that one of the reasons behind my sickness was my problem with swallowing.

In the last few years, I've been struggling to get food down and have turned away from eating. Mealtimes take forever, and I often find myself choking. As a result, I've lost a lot of weight.

I know I should be eating more, but I no longer enjoy eating. On the other hand, my weight loss is not healthy.

What can I do?

A: Create a plan for success that will enable you to eat a healthy diet.

Even though you are struggling with these changes to your body, you can still enjoy life. Find positive ways to adjust to change instead of resigning yourself.

First, figure out with your doctor the severity of your dysphagia (swallowing issue). There are many potential causes for dysphagia (both neural and muscular), but specialists can use an imaging test to figure out more about your issue and help develop a treatment plan.

Your doctor may recommend mouth exercises to strengthen the muscles involved in swallowing or surgery to enlarge your throat. One simple but overlooked solution is to use smaller eating utensils to encourage smaller bites.

There are special diets for people with a dysphagia condition. A mild dysphagia diet recommends taking smaller bites and avoiding hard, crunchy or sticky foods. A moderate dysphagia diet recommends only soft and moist-textured foods (these generally don't require a knife). Finally, a severe dysphagia diet recommends pureed food, the easiest texture to swallow.

Food is a very social and emotional part of our lives, and many people struggle with dietary changes, whatever the reason. Find ways to be successful and enjoy food that fits your needs. Aside from weight loss, keep an eye on potential malnutrition and dehydration.

Look up resources that can support your lifestyle changes. There are even cookbooks for pureed food diets, which show ways to make the shift more enjoyable.

Adaptability is the key word. Find a way to make it work! — Emma, Doug's granddaughter

REMOTE CELEBRATION

Q: My granddaughter is graduating from law school this month, and we couldn't be happier for her. She's worked hard and knows what she wants to do with her future.

I was invited to go to the ceremony, but the journey involves a plane ride to the other side of the country. Even though I would like to attend, I'm not up to traveling.

How can I help celebrate?

A: Even though you can't make it to the school commencement, you can still help celebrate.

Is there a graduation party closer to home? If so, that will be the time to share together in celebrating your granddaughter's achievement. If not, there are still other ways to participate.

Call to congratulate her on the culmination of all her hard work. On top of that, compose a thoughtful letter with your reflections on the past, present and future. If it's in your finances, you can also send a gift or flowers.

Your granddaughter will treasure your thoughts in years to come.

Our relationships are defined by the thought and care we pay to others, not by convenience. Even though you can't attend the ceremony itself, you are still an important part of the lives of those around you. — Doug

Doug Mayberry makes the most of life in a Southern California retirement community. Contact him at [email protected]. Emma, Doug's granddaughter, 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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