Batch of Experi-Hints

Dear Heloise: On behalf of the AARP Andrus Foundation, I want to thank the thousands of people who submitted ideas to the "HINTS TO HELOISE CONTEST -- EXPERI-HINTS 2." Your readers are the best when it comes to sharing their favorite hints so others can maintain their independence.

The top three winners will receive a basket of goodies, including your newest book, "In the Kitchen With Heloise." Seven runners-up will receive the video "Stealing Time: The New Science of Aging."

Now online at www.andrus.org is the new booklet of the top 30 hints. For those who don't have access to a computer, send a self-addressed, stamped envelope (No. 10) to: Hints to Heloise Contest, AARP Andrus Foundation, 601 E. Street NW, Washington, DC 20049. (Allow four weeks for delivery.) -- Shelley Buckingham, Director of Communications, AARP Andrus Foundation

Shelley, I love printing these hints! I'm also thrilled to have been invited to speak at the upcoming AARP celebration this Friday, Oct. 12.

Readers, if you are in Dallas, drop in for some helpful hints for independent living from experts, health-care professionals, my readers and me. -- Heloise

Here are the top three hints:

1. Have your house number visible on the front, side and back of your house to make it easier for emergency personnel and/or police to locate you. -- William B. Rau Jr., Westminster, Md.

2. Add a strip of bright yellow duct tape to the edges of stairs so the steps can be seen easily. -- Kay O'Keefe, Anaheim, Calif.

3. Have a special arrangement with a local cab company or contracted driver to assist individuals who no longer drive. -- Jeanette E. Tiffany, Albuquerque, N.M.

The next several hints are listed in random order:

4. Stay organized by keeping a basket, box or tray near the entrance of your home for frequently used items such as keys, garage-door opener, coupons, checkbook, etc. -- Jan Willis, Milwaukee

5. Get involved with community-service projects at your local high schools, churches or colleges. If they don't have any, consider starting a project yourself with assistance from the local Senior Center. -- Virginia Eastman, North Kingstown, R.I.

6. Print large, two-letter codes on top of medicine bottles so you know which medication you're taking. Keep a list in large type with the two-letter codes and full name of medications so you don't get confused. -- Jane Wallace, Walnut Creek, Calif.

7. Here are two uses for a mechanic's nut/bolt retriever: Use it to reach items that have fallen between appliances, or put a damp cloth on the end in order to dust. -- Alice Weaver, Chesapeake, Va.

8. If the laundry unit is downstairs, put laundry in a garbage bag, throw it down the stairs and then take your time going down to do it. -- Dorothy McCubbins, Louisville, Ky.