Shoulder height backspin ball to backhand

I have trouble dealing with a shoulder height long backspin ball played deeply to my backhand. I cannot move fast enough to get around it (I am getting old and have slow footwork) and play with my forehand. I get confused if the best way to play this ball is to smash it (often I hit the net) or put some topspin (here I usually go over the table). I assume part of the problem comes from my poor reading of the spin, as my opponent (aware of this weakness of mine) varies backpin and no spin.

I have a similar problem when the ball is played short, but here (shame on me) I often push back, at least getting it back on the table. Thank you in advance for your help.

Hi Lukasz,

I think with this ball the topspin ins the best option.  It is much safer than trying to smash the ball.  Just play it reasonably safely.  If you can get good topspin on the ball you will get it to dip onto the table.  Just because the ball is high don't think that you have to hit it hard.

If the ball is short you can also topspin it if it is high enough but if you feel more comfortable to push it safely that is OK.  You need to make sure that the ball stays low and isn't easy for your opponent to attack it.