Battery question

JEP wrote:
I very rarely use my digital camera, so most of the time it sits in a
[...]
The camera is a 6 year old point-and-shoot Nikon Coolpix 2100 (2
megapixel) that uses AA batteries. I have been using rechargable
Energizer NiMH batteries, 2500 mAh. My problem is that the batteries are
almost always dead whenever I need my camera;

Yes, normal rechargable batteries have a high self-discharge rate, even
when not used. And they age. After 6 years I would expect the battery to
hold only a fraction of what it used to hold when new. Plus the deep
discharge every time is not a life-enhancing scenario, either.

They seem to be drain within a week or so.

New rechargable batteries should last significantly longer, typical NiMH
should loose about 1/3 per month.

I bought rechargable NiMH batteries because I was told digital cameras
would deplete other batteries too quickly.

Well,almost true. Using batteries instead of rechargables will deplete
your wallet if you have a standard usage pattern for your camera. You
don't.

Given my usage patterns, should I be using a different type of battery?

Most definitely yes.

I want something that will hold its charge (for the long periods when the
camera is not being used)

Use normal AA batteries (non-rechargable). For your usage pattern that's
the best option. Not to mention that you can just try it without buying
any new stuff.
Or try the new Sanyo Eneelops with low self-discharge rate. However they
are expensive and require a new charger, too.

but will have enough juice to get me through a
week or two of vacation when I do use the camera.

That's not going to happen. If you _actively_use_ the camera daily then
no batterie will hold enough charge to last that long.

jue