To check your Internet speed from your computer's settings, you must connect your computer to your router via Ethernet cable. It's in the top-right corner of your Mac's screen. Doing so will open the Network Utility app. It's on the far-left side of the top of the Network Utility window. Click the box below the "Select a network interface for information" heading, then click your Ethernet connection's name. You'll see something like "100 Mbit/s" here, which would mean the speed of the connection between your computer and your router is 100 megabits of data per second.

Summary: Make sure your computer is connected to your router. Open Spotlight . Type "network utility" into Spotlight, then press ⏎ Return. Click the Info tab. Select your Ethernet connection. Look at the number next to "Link Speed".


The nest has to be made of wood. Parakeets like to chew and they will shred up a cardboard box quickly. Go to the hardware store and pick up some wood paneling to build your cage.  Panels of plywood board will work best. You'll want wood that is at least 1.5 to 2 cm (.6 to .8 inches) thick, though it can be thicker as well. You'll need to cut the wood into 4 panels of 12" x 14" (30.5cm x 35.5cm), and 2 panels of 14" x 14" (35.5cm x 35.5cm). In total, that's about 90 square feet, so make sure you get at least that much wood to ensure you have enough. You'll need a few tools to make the box, so pick them up at the hardware store if you don't already own them.  A circular saw. If you don't get the wood pre-cut into the proper size at the hardware store, you'll have to cut it yourself. The best way to get a straight, clean cut is with a circular saw. A rotary cutting tool. This works much like a power saw, but has a long and slender blade used to cut holes. You'll need this to cut a round entrance for the nest. A power drill. You'll have to drill a few holes to assemble the box, so a power drill is the best option here. A hammer. You'll have to nail the box together, so a hammer is a necessity. Remember nails as well. A ruler or tape measure. You'll need this to properly measure the wood you're cutting. You should never operate power tools without proper protection. To ensure your safety, there is some safety equipment you should get before starting the project.  Eye protection. Goggles or safety glasses are a necessity when using a power saw or drill. Debris can fly into your eyes and cause pain and damage. Ear protection. Power tools are loud, and prolonged exposure to the sound can damage your hearing. Ear plugs or specialized earmuffs will prevent any hearing problems. Gloves. When handling wood, you could cut yourself or get a splinter. Prevent any avoidable injuries by wearing a thick pair of work gloves. A dust mask. Sawdust will fly around when you're sawing and drilling, which could get into your lungs and cause irritation. Wear a dust mask to protect your lungs.

Summary: Get wood panels. Get the necessary tools. Get the necessary safety equipment.


You might be shocked or surprised to hear your relative saying something outrageous or crude. When your relative loses their filter, don’t react in shock, anger, or even ridicule. Gently let your relative know that their behavior is inappropriate and move on. There’s no need to bring up an incident once it has passed and you’ve dealt with it in the moment.  For example, say, “It’s not appropriate to speak of people in that way. We do not talk like this.” In some cases, it may even be appropriate to ignore the comment and not respond at all. However, this may not be a good strategy for someone who is suffering from a cognitive decline. If the situation is uncomfortable, gently guide your relative somewhere else. Speak calmly and directly to your relative as you travel elsewhere. You may also notice certain situations that target their inappropriate behavior and divert their attention prior to them seeing something or someone.  If you know your relative has a tendency to say inappropriate things during certain events or situations (like being in a large crowd or around young children), guide them away ahead of time to prevent the situation from unfolding. For example, if your relative is saying something racist while at the grocery store, direct them to a different aisle or exit the store. If you’re feeling like the stress of dealing with your older relative is getting to be too great, take a quick break to de-escalate.  Take a walk or go outside and get some fresh air. If you’re getting frustrated with your relative or need some time to cool off, remove yourself from the situation temporarily. Excuse yourself from the room and go somewhere else. You may wish to prepare a snack to help you get away and return later. Relatives have a way of saying things when others are nearby. It’s up to you how you handle the situation. You can apologize for their behavior (“I’m so sorry my aunt said that to you”), clue them in, (“Sometimes my grandmother says inappropriate things due to her dementia”), or laugh it off (“All those years of embarrassing my uncle as a kid have come back on me!”). However you choose to handle the situation, think about what your relative would want. For example, if your relative has always valued privacy, they may not appreciate you saying things about their condition to strangers. However, if your relative has often valued humor and lighthearted joking, consider taking the statements in stride when out in public.
Summary: Respond to the remarks. Guide them away. Take a small break. Respond to onlookers.