DEAR ABBY: As many of us get older, our sight and hearing are not what they used to be.
When old friends and acquaintances see my well-known and beloved father, they often rush over and jump into conversation, giving him no clue as to their identity. Even worse, they will say, "I bet you don't remember me, do you?"
Abby, if Dad could see well, he would have known them in an instant because there is nothing wrong with his mind or memory. Please tell your readers that when they run into a friend who has a vision or hearing problem (or for that matter, anyone they haven't seen in a long time), they should introduce themselves immediately -- and add an extra hint: "Hi, Jim, I'm Alex Smith from Salinas, Calif."
This courtesy will not only be greatly appreciated, but probably will lead to many warm and wonderful recollections. -- PATRICIA IN RENO, NEV.
DEAR PATRICIA: I'm willing to wager that everyone who reads this has been approached by someone who has said, "Hi -- I'll bet you don't remember me, do you?"
Thank you for a valuable suggestion well worth remembering.