Powershot A70 help.

I've had my powershot a70 for about 3 years but I rarely use it. The problem is sometimes right when I turn it on it says to change the batteries right away, other times it'll let me take a few quick shots before saying so. The rechargeable nihm batteries are fine in my flash, and all the other items I use them in. Anyone have any other fixes?

If it's been sitting around for a while, the batteries are probably losing their charge. How long it's been idle will affect how far down the batteries have gone, and that can make a difference in how the camera responds. Or are you saying that without recharging the batteries sometimes it'll shut down right away and then later it'll give you a few shots?

It still happened even when the batteries are freshly 100% charged.

Same batteries give erratic response? Checked the terminals (batteries and in the camera) for oxidation or corrosion?