Windows 7: Can't change application background with High contrast theme

If I select a black high contrast theme in Windows 7 I cannot change the background color of MS Word 2000, any suggestions? thanks...

Is this perhaps what you need?
How to Change the Background Color in a Microsoft Word Document | eHow.com

Thanks Irene, but that isn't it. I can change the color if I don't use a high contrast theme.

Just a thought - I wonder if it would work if you run Windows 7 in XP-mode? :
Install and use Windows XP Mode in Windows 7

I am running Home Premium 64 and XP mode will only run for 30 or, if reset, up to 120 days. The problem with the "High Resolution" themes that MS has created is that they have hidden some of the options that I need access to - example: if you try to change the "Button Face" to black, you cannot view the text on the toolbar buttons of Explorer if it does not have the focus (the menu bar for Explorer is not a menu, but a toolbar).

I have done some searching and cannot find any info on the classic themes. There is a setting(s) somewhere (in the registry I am sure) that can be changed.

Sorry i have not been able to resolve the problem for you.

Have you considered upgrading your Office suite?

Not work the bucks considering I don't use it that much. Appreciate the try...

How about trying OpenOffice - it's free and Windows compatible, although I wouldn't know about the themes.
OpenOffice.org Downloads

Got OO but the version of Basic is difficult unlike VB which is very easy. I have had the 2000 ver of MS Office since it came out and like it. The company I worked for stayed up to date on all software and I had to deal with the "Ribbon". Now I am retired and I don't have too . When they came out with the "Ribbon" I took an immediate dislike for MS Office products - too much work to chase down what was previously right in front of you. I had a lot of problems installing Outlook, but when I finally got the answer it worked fine on Windows 7 64.

Enjoy!!