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Hands & Hearts Blog

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Spring into Good Health: Tips for Seniors to Stay Fit and Fabulous this Season

3/23/2023

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Spring is a time to shake off the winter blues and embrace the sunshine and warmer weather. But with spring also comes some health challenges, especially for seniors. Don't worry, though, Hands and Hearts Home Care has got you covered! In this post, we'll share some fun and easy tips for seniors to stay healthy and happy this spring, including a recipe for a delicious herbal tea that can help support your immune system.
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Soak Up the Sun and Fresh Air

Spring is the perfect time to get outside and breathe in the fresh air. Whether you prefer to take a stroll, have a picnic, or tend to your garden, spending time in nature is a great way to reduce stress and improve your mood. Plus, being outdoors is a natural immune booster!

Keep Your Body Moving​

Staying active is crucial for maintaining good health and preventing chronic diseases. But that doesn't mean you have to hit the gym! Low-impact exercises like walking, stretching, and dancing can do wonders for your body and mind. So get moving and enjoy the spring breeze!
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Eat Your Way to Good Health

Healthy eating is the foundation of good health, and there's no better time to indulge in fresh, seasonal produce than spring! Fill up on colorful fruits, veggies, whole grains, and lean proteins to give your body the nutrients it needs to stay healthy and strong.

Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate!

​Drinking plenty of water is essential for staying healthy and hydrated, especially during the spring when allergies and other health issues may arise. So make sure to drink at least 8 glasses of water a day to keep your body in tip-top shape.

Sip your way to Immune Support 

​When it comes to supporting your immune system, herbal tea is a fantastic option. Here's a delicious recipe for a natural and immune-boosting herbal tea that you can enjoy anytime:

​Immune-Supporting Herbal Tea Recipe:

​Ingredients:
  • 1 tablespoon dried echinacea
  • 1 tablespoon dried elderberry
  • 1 tablespoon dried ginger
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 2 cups water

Directions:

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  1. Boil water in a small saucepan.
  2. Add echinacea, elderberry, and ginger to the boiling water.
  3. Let it simmer for 10-15 minutes.
  4. Remove from heat and strain the tea.
  5. Add honey to sweeten to your liking.
By following these fun and easy tips, you can stay fit and fabulous this spring! So go ahead, soak up the sun, dance to your favorite tunes, indulge in some fresh and delicious produce, hydrate, and sip on some immune-supporting herbal tea. Our caregiver crew at Hands and Hearts wishes you a healthy and happy spring!
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Schedule an appointment with our Caregiver Team today!

Call 803-470-4770
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Keeping your Heart Happy & Healthy

2/24/2023

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Maintaining your heart health should become more of a priority as the years go by.  We’ve put together some simple tips to help your loved ones keep their heart pumping! As age creeps up on people during their senior years, cardiovascular health becomes even more of a concern especially with the risk of heart attacks and strokes. It’s important to note that heart disease can strike anyone at any age but the elderly have a higher risk.

Keep Moving

It’s important to stay active and keep moving the best way you can per your situation. Walking is the best way to stay active and helps you get fresh air and perhaps enjoy company with someone. A walking partner helps with physical activity and mental health.

Eat for your Heart

​A heart healthy diet is crucial for staying healthy and keeping your heart in check. Lots of fruits and veggies, fish, nuts and whole grains are examples to keep in your diet. Limiting saturated fats, salt, processed foods and red and processed meats can keep your heart a little healthier.
Always check with your doctor for specific requirements and what is best for you. Your doctor can also help you find foods and recipes that are easier to make and prep. 
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It’s ok to take shortcuts and buy prepared dishes especially if using a knife to cut up veggies is harder for you.

Get enough Rest

Sleep is essential for everyone and particularly important for older people to help your brain recoup and recover. It helps with mental and emotional processing. If you or someone you know has trouble sleeping or potentially has sleep apnea, check with your doctor as soon as possible for solutions that are safe for you.
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Reduce Stress Factors

Stress is such a big component that can hinder the heart from feeling healthy. By taking steps to reduce the stress in your life, you can help prolong your life. This may be going for a daily walk, checking in with a friend or finding an activity that brings you joy.
There are senior centers or recreation centers that can offer suggestions that may have just the thing you’re looking for.
If you or a loved one needs help with activities to lower the stress factor, there are agencies that have caregivers and other medical staff to help with chores and daily living routines. ​

Try Hands and Hearts Home Care Today!

Call 803-470-4770
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Chronic Pain Remedies for Seniors

12/31/2022

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Joint pain or even chronic pain is something that inevitably comes with aging. As the body gets older every year there are certainly body pains that may arise in the back, hands or other joints in the body.
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Finding the Source

 It can be hard to figure out how to go about everyday activities or even bear with the pain of arthritis. There are two types of arthritis – osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Osteoarthritis is the more common kind that comes with age. Rheumatoid arthritis is more severe and typically attacks the body in a progressive way.
There are ways to ease the pain particularly with osteoarthritis. Make sure you always consult with your doctor who can prescribe treatments and even prescriptions and other solutions as necessary for your specific pain(s).

Staying Active

While it may seem counterproductive to stay active especially as the pain may seem unbearable, it’s actually best to stay as active as possible to reduce further pain or weakened muscles. By staying inactive can lead to other issues or other unwanted pains.

Low-Impact Options

There are various ways to stay active and each activity will depend on the individual person but walking at a comfortable pace for you is a simple way to keep the whole body active. Other low-impact activities include water-based exercises which is easier on the joints. If you have access to an indoor pool at a local gym or recreation center, this would be ideal.
If access to an indoor pool is not an option, exercises utilizing a chair or other low-impact exercises that do not put stress on the joints are ideal. These can be found on television, YouTube® or even on DVDs. A resistance band with the lightest resistance is another low-cost expensive.
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Often times senior centers or county recreation centers offer classes with the instruction of an expert. In addition to the exercises there is the additional benefit of socialization.

Alleviate  Stress

A sneaky factor that may be associated with the pain is stress. Stress has a way of amplifying the pain of chronic conditions so finding ways to lower the stress and taking care of the mind and body have a double-edged benefit.
Ways to decrease stress include keeping a journal, having a confidante to turn to when feeling overwhelmed or stress seems to be surmounting and finding a relaxing activity or just taking time to unwind.

Treat with Heat...or Keep it Cool!

Another treatment is hot and cold therapy. You can do this by applying a cold press to help reduce inflammation and then using a heating pad to increase the circulation and stimulate some of the body’s natural healing process.
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Individually Tailored Care

Other alternative treatments to discuss with your doctor include acupuncture, chiropractic treatments, bio feedback and even meditation. Properly using medication is another useful remedy. Finding the right treatment will depend on the person and what you and your doctor agree is best.  Sometimes it may be a game of trial and error until a remedy comes about to decrease the pain.
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Our goal is to help your loved ones be as comfortable and self sufficient as possible.  Your loved ones will feel right at home with our care team.  Give us a call for a free Senior Care consultation!  
Call 803-470-4770
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Benefits of Fall Squash for Seniors

11/29/2022

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Squashing your Fall Appetite!

The autumn months are here which means all the squash is happening in grocery stores and even on front porches for decoration. It’s officially squash season and there are so many different types of squash.
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Colorful and Nutritious

​With more than 100 varieties including squash for summer and squash for winter. There’s bound to be one to your liking. There are also different ways to prepare them and the best part is squash tends to be a soft vegetable after it’s cooked making it easier to eat for elderly.
​It’s also a high fiber food and has loads of vitamins to keep you healthy and full. For instance, butternut squash has antioxidants to help slow cellular damage and reduce risk of chronic diseases. Squash such as butternut can also be turned into a soup making it an easy to eat meal for senior citizens.

Fresh, Frozen, or Canned

If buying a whole squash is out of the question, you can try buying frozen squash or other prepared dishes to help make meal time easier. You can also buy soups made from squash. Just be on the lookout for soups that are lower in sodium especially if heart disease is a concern.
Thankfully, many grocery stores offer frozen packs of squash and delis may have prepared dishes ready to bring home and heat up.

Have some fun!

You can also make squash preparation a fun activity to do with family, friends and grandkids. This is particularly a good idea with pumpkins and other larger squash that may be harder to cut and prepare.
Grandkids will probably not mind getting messy scooping out the insides and seeds and if you have to use a knife always take precautions or have another friend to help out.

Fall and Winter Squash

As for the different types of squash, yellow squash is relatively small and one of the popular types. They are also smaller squash so cutting or dicing will be easier when preparing and cooking. They are normally available during summer but depending on where you live, you may still be able to find some.
​​Other winter squashes such as acorn, butternut, spaghetti and delicate squash among many others are hearty and filling and can be made into a variety of recipes or eaten simply. Butternut and spaghetti tend to be on the bigger side so assistance may be necessary depending on the abilities and health and well-being of the senior.​

Butternut Squash (or Pumpkin!) Bisque (serves 2-4)​

Here’s one simple recipe to try that will fill your health with many nutritional benefits and keep you warm during the cold months. Keep in mind that you can also buy frozen vegetables or already cut up vegetables if needed.
Ingredients:
  •     1/2 onion diced
  •     1 TBS. olive oil
  •     2 large Carrots diced
  •     1 small butternut squash diced (or one 29-ounce can of pumpkin puree**)
  •     2 cups low-fat, low-salt chicken broth
  •     Salt and pepper to taste
  •     ¼ tsp. nutmeg
  •     ½ cup half and half cream (optional)
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Directions:
• Sauté onion in oil until soft, then mix in everything else except the cream.

    • Bring to a boil and simmer for 30 minutes.
    • Let cool for 15 minutes.
    • Take out batches at a time and puree in a blender until smooth. Return to pot on low heat and     add cream.
    **If using puree, you may skip the blender.
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Call us today and let our dedicated In-Home Caregiver Staff help your loved one with Fall meal preps and other household tasks!

Hands and Hearts Voted Best In-Home Care in Columbia!

CALL 803-470-4770
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Seniors Exploring the World...One Book at a Time!

9/29/2022

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 You'll find more than just books at your Library!

Your local library is more than just a cove filled with books for young and old. These days libraries offer a variety of programs and resources and with technology on a constant boom, there are many online resources available as well!
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Get a Library Card

Libraries are a wealth of information and their programs and resources are often free or of very little cost making them an asset available to all socioeconomic groups. The first step is to register for a library card through the library in your county. If transportation is an issue, many libraries allow people to apply for a library card online. The library card is the gateway to a world of creativity, socialization and books on all kinds of topics.

Connect with your Community

If you have access to transportation, going to the library whenever there’s a public event or forum allows for interaction with people. Staying plugged in is good for the brain and healthy. Even if you can only come to the library once a month or so, this recurrent interaction allows positive connections and even bridges for forming new friendships.

Enjoy a Change of Scenery!

Having some sort of social outlet is helpful to the mind. Studies prove over and over that being isolated, especially during the older years, is harmful and perhaps even damaging to the human mind. Library events and the avenue to books and media provides resources that help our minds stay young.

Special Programs

The library can also offer practical living solutions such as tax help during tax season or programs to help seniors living on a budget. There may be directories or senior services available to help the elderly.
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Tech Support for Seniors!

​The library is also a place for seniors to come receive technical or computer help. Seniors may not have a computer or internet access at home so they can come to the library and check email and connect online. Library employees are also available to help out seniors who need assistance with technicalities.

We treat your loved ones like our own! Call for a Free Consultation today!

Hands and Hearts Home Care offers quality, affordable Respite Care, In Home Care and Dementia Care in the Columbia SC Area!  Find out how we can help provide support for your loved ones!
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Call Us Today!
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Senior Tune-Up! Music, Memories, and Movement

8/30/2022

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Music to your Senior's Ears

Music is something that anyone can appreciate. No matter what genre you listen to, most people can find some sort of artist or musical category they enjoy. Music is one of those universal hobbies that transcends age, culture and personality. There’s a reason music therapy has been proven to provide relief and comfort especially to seniors and people with dementia or Alzheimer’s.

Shake it up!

For elderly people or seniors who may have an aging disease or even a mobility issue, taking a trip down memory lane with music they love can bring a smile and good vibes. Family members and friends should be encouraged to talk with a loved one about their favorite music of their past or even what they enjoy listening to now. ​
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Make the Ultimate Playlist

Open up a music app on and create a playlist for your mom, dad or grandparent to enjoy listening to. Together, both of you can create positive memories and explore new routes of music. The grandchild will discover a new-to-him or her artist and just maybe grandpa or grandma may discover a new, contemporary artist.
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Go Live!

After going on a trip down music memory lane, find a local concert to attend. It could be an outdoor venue playing pop-rock classics, a jazz band in downtown or even a local orchestra. Before going, find out if there are any accommodations you may need to plan around and make sure your loved one is okay with being inside or outside.

Keep it Cool

Sometimes the hot or cold weather may be a bit much for the elderly so plan accordingly and make sure everyone will be comfortable. Typically there are handicapped stations or sittings available so check the venue and often times there will be senior or student discounts. This could make for a lovely evening for grandparents and grandchild or the whole family in general.

Feel the Rhythm

If a senior is pretty mobile and doesn’t have too much joint or back pain, check out dance lessons or a dance class. This can incorporate music and dance and provide a great aerobic and heart-healthy activity.
There are rec centers or studios that offer one style or an array of styles. For instance, ballroom, swing or Latin styles are typically pretty popular. In the south, shag dancing can be easy to come by. You may also want to check out churches that have local dance instructors looking to make a little income and reach a new audience.
Whatever your love of music, go explore your favorites and discover a new artist or two. The love of music may improve mood and memory and provide some feel-good endorphins.
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Cha-Cha Slide over to Hands and Hearts Home Care next month for more tips!

Call 803-470-4770 Today!
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Stylish Senior Summer Outfit Tips

7/29/2022

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Hot Tips for Seniors on Summer Fashion

The summer temperatures are sizzling but that doesn’t mean the aging have to dress frumpy or less than appealing. Designers are more conscientious of aging consumers so you can dress fabulous at any age.
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Hang Loose

For women, look for clothes with lighter and airy fabrics to keep from overheating. Also look for looser styles that flow more and elastic waistbands. Sometimes buttons may be hard to fasten especially if there are any chronic health conditions or arthritis issues.

Breezy Chic

In the summer you may want to avoid denim as jeans do not always fit well especially if you’ll be outside a lot. As for shoes, slip on sneakers and sandals are easier to wear. Look for sandals with Velcro attachments instead of buckles to make it easier on your hands and fingers. This tips goes for men and women. You may opt for higher quality shoes so this may mean spending more but it’ll last you beyond one summer.
Cotton fabrics will allow more breathability so look for garments that have a higher cotton percentage. Linen fabrics will also be easier to wear in the scorching temps. This tip is great for men and women.

Stylish & Cool

Men can opt for button down shirts made from linen or cotton or a blend of both. If buttons are not ideal, look for cotton t-shirts or pull over tops. Keep things interesting with fun patterns. Hawaiian styles are always fun during the summer.
For women, look for capris or pants with drawstrings or elastic waistbands. Try staying away from jeans to stay cooler. Cropped pants look effortlessly chic and can be dressed up or down depending on your errands for the day.

Dress it up or down!

Off the shoulder dresses and tops are a great way to stay stylish and cool. Speaking of dresses, a good maxi dress may be a favorite during summer and will help you look fabulous and dressed up even if it’s just a casual dress.
If off the shoulder dresses are not your thing, there are also cold shoulder tops that have a little more coverage and feel easier to wear without worrying about the sides of the top.
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Top It Off

Don’t underestimate the power of a great hat. Whether you opt for a ball cap or fedora style hat, this style choice keeps the sun off your head and out of your eyes.
Finally, don’t forget a good pair of sunglasses to protect your eyes. There are also prescription sunglasses for those who need it and remember the darker the lens, the better the protection.

For In Home Caregivers in Columbia, Hands & Hearts is a Top Choice!

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Caring for your loved ones like our own family!  Call for a free Senior Care Consultation today!
Call 803-470-4770
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What causes Ankle Pain in Seniors?

6/28/2022

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What could be causing that pain in your ankle?

Feet are the vessels that keep you moving forward. For elderly people, it’s important to keep active while taking necessary precautions to protect your feet. Sometimes a misstep or discomfort around the ankle can be debilitating especially if there are places to go and people to see.
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Ankle pain can be minor discomfort or a serious injury but it’s always the most inconvenient of pain that happens for a variety of reasons. If you or a loved one suddenly has ankle pain, always consult the physician.
Ankle pain can refer to any sort of pain or discomfort and can occur for many reasons. Common causes include injury, arthritis and normal wear and tear. Depending on what you do, there may be some stiffness or pain in the area.

Types of Injuries

There are different kinds of injuries. Remember, only a doctor can let you know what you have but this may help you understand.

Bursitis

Bursitis happens when fluid-filled sacs called bursae become irritated and inflamed. The sacs are what cushion your bones when you move.

Fractures

A fracture is an accident or injury happens causing a break. Ankle fractures can be mild or quite severe. A broken ankle causes swelling and pain.

Sprains

Sprained ankles are common. An ankle sprain occurs when ligaments stretch or tear. Sprained ankles occurs when the ankle rolls forcefully out of its normal position.
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Tendonitis

Tendonitis is when the tendons are irritated and inflamed. The tendons connect muscles to bones. Sometimes tendons tear which may need surgery.

Other Causes

There are also conditions that may cause ankle pain and require immediate attention. These conditions are arthritis, flatfoot, gout and an infection. There are many types of arthritis and is common in people over 65 years.
Flatfoot is from a very low arch or no arch. Gout is a form of arthritis resulting from a buildup of uric acid throughout the body. Excess uric acid creates crystals settling in joints.

Prevention & Treatment

You can help prevent ankle pain as much as you can by maintaining a healthy weight, strengthening your muscles, stopping suddenly when you feel any pain and warming up before exercising.
Often times, ankle pain can get better with some rest, ice and over-the-counter pain medication. If you aren’t already wearing supportive footwear, it’s important to find the proper size and fit even though it may cost more than one would like.

Ready to Make an Appointment? We are here for you!

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4 Ways to Age More Gracefully

5/27/2022

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Knowing these tips will give you peace (and health) of mind!

​It’s common for people to associate deteriorating brains with aging but it doesn’t always have to be this way. There are ways to exercise your brain and keep it as active as possible. Now there is definitely the unavoidable and unexpected that happens but let’s take a look at how to keep your mind mentally healthy and engaging as possible.

Stay Social & Stay Involved

​While the Covid-19 pandemic may have complicated the socialization a bit, there are ways to stay involved while still staying healthy and safe. Call a friend or family member or call your local senior center and discover ways to stay involved while also staying physically active. If transportation is an issue, the Department on Aging has resources to help you out so you can go out.
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Eat Healthy

Sometimes as people age, eating healthy may be harder due to medical conditions or just wanting more convenient food. Always talk with your doctor to determine what you should have and what you should probably steer clear of. Then make lists and find easy to cook recipes. Above all, make it as fun as possible. Try out a meal kit company where the food comes to you and you just follow the steps to make the food. Or find convenient foods with healthier options. For instance, have instant oatmeal with some tasty options. Yes, this may include chocolate. Make a yogurt parfait and buy frozen vegetables and fruit instead of fresh to avoid spoiling food.
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Maintain Proper Blood Pressure

Rising blood pressure and even blood sugar levels are common as people age. Discuss with your doctor what you need to do to keep the blood pressure down and blood sugar level. Keeping these two things under control can help curtail other health issues that may arise.

Stimulate the Brain

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This can be a wide range of activities and features. Whether it’s playing a favorite board game or card game with a friend or gong for a leisurely walk. It could even be a coffee date with a family member or loved one as staying connected keeps you healthy mentally. Senior centers often have activities and leisure things for older seniors to enjoy. Even buying a word puzzle book will keep the brain sharp. Find something you love and switch it up as needed. ​

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Tips for Caring for a Spouse Post-Brain Trauma

3/24/2022

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For Better or Worse

For Better or for worse takes on a whole new meaning when caring for an elderly spouse or for a spouse who has experienced some sort of brain trauma. Even the best of marriages can experience some sort of strain but there are ways to address the challenges and keep hope alive in marriage. According to a 2015 joint report by AARP and the National Alliance for Caregiving, one in 10 caregivers take care of a spouse. Let’s see how caregiving spouses can feel more like a parent and less like a spouse.
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Anticipate Changes and Stay Flexible

The first thing is to know there will be changes. There will be a shift in losses in various areas of the marriage whether it’s responsibilities, communication or intimacy. Take a moment and realize that change is happening and discover how to approach your changing marriage.

Adapt Your Roles

You may need to reevaluate your roles. For instance, if your spouse typically did the cooking or finances you’ll need to take on this role. Realize that you won’t need to do it like he or she did. But adjust your mentality and know that it needs to be done. If you need to ask for help, don’t be afraid to call in help from a sibling or another relative or friend. Take a look at the responsibilities and order them from most important to least important and decide how to conquer. 
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If hiring someone to come in and help clean is necessary, figure out to budget for this and bring in the help.
Caregiving is big on you emotionally and physically so bringing in help may be necessary to prevent burnout or frustration issues. Try your best to talk with your spouse and let him or her know what needs to be done in order to continue caring for your marriage.

Avoid Isolating Behaviors

Don’t isolate yourselves. When you start caring for your spouse it may be easy to separate yourselves from the outside world. This can cause tempers to flare or even sadness to come into play. Find a way to talk or meet up with another couple or family or even attend therapy with your spouse.

Find Local Support

There may be support groups at your local recreational or senior center or you may want to contact an in-home health provider and ask for suggestions. If you attend church or a religious organization, reach out to them and let them know you want to help out or are interested in being involved more. The point is to reduce isolation and increase social interaction safely.

Cultivate Healthy Communication

Cultivating healthy communication may be difficult depending on you and your spouse’s circumstances but it’s necessary for a healthy marriage. Learn to speak your partner’s language and tune in to how they respond. Do they like spending time together even if it’s just sitting at a park? Or do they enjoy receiving sentimental novelty gifts? Discover what makes them excited again.
It may be necessary to reach out to a therapist or in-home health provider for suggestions on the best ways to talk especially if there are physical changes complicating speech.

Remember to Care for Yourself

Finally, don’t forget to soak up a little time for yourself and let your spouse know you need a couple of hours to do something for yourself. Caring for another person can emotionally wreck you so remember to take care of yourself too and you’ll be a better caregiver overall.
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Hands and Hearts Home Care in West Columbia is here to help!

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​Home Care 
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Hands and Hearts
​Home Care

153 Dreher Rd. West Columbia, SC 29169

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