COMPLIMENTARY NOV/DEC 2022 MEMORY PRESERVE YOUR PRECIOUS TRAVEL NURSE EXPLOSION HONOR WALKS FOR ORGAN DONORS SPECIAL SENIOR HEALTH ISSUE UP S TAT E CHARLESTON | DORCHESTER | BERKELEY ABBEVILLE | ANDERSON | CHEROKE | GREENVILLE | GREENWOOD | LAURENS | PICKENS | OCONEE | UNION | SPARTANBURG SANTA’S LIST FOR PETS
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THE TRUSTED CHOICE When my dad suffered a stroke, it was my turn to help him with important decisions, like making the right choice in rehabilitation. I asked the medical professionals that treated him who they trusted for the best care and outcomes. They said Encompass Health, the nation’s largest system of rehabilitation hospitals. There, they created a rehabilitation program specifically designed for his needs using advanced technology and innovative treatments. And he was cared for by a highly trained, experienced staff that showed professionalism and compassion throughout his recovery. Now I know why they are the trusted choice of medical professionals. // encompasshealth.com/greenvillerehab ©2021:Encompass Health Corporation:MyTurn
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www.Ups tatePhys i c i ansSC . com | www.Hea l thL i nksUps tate. com | 5 11 | TIPS FOR PROTECTING MEMORY As people live longer, the drive to protect their fading memory rises. A fine-tuned memory is one of the most critical elements to keeping people of any age healthy. 15 | HIT THE ROAD BUT SPARE YOUR BODY Long hours crammed into cars, planes and trains can make even the most fit body cranky. By following a few tips and tricks, travelers can curb the chances that crankiness will creep into their neck, hips, back and mood. 18 | GIFTS FOR NAUGHTY AND NICE PETS Santa is making his list and checking it twice to see which family pet has been naughty or nice. Pet experts and enthusiasts offer a list of top dog and cat toys that will make excellent holiday gifts. 22 | LONELY BUT NOT ALONE It’s possible to feel lonely even when you are not alone. Patients describe loneliness as a feeling of not being “heard” or understood, even if they are surrounded by people. Experts offer help. 26 | GIVING BETTERS YOUR HEALTH An ever-growing body of research suggests that volunteering also offers individual health benefits that reach beyond the conventionally recognized social and emotional advantages. 30 | BYE BYE PATIENT PORTAL FEARS Though the benefits of patient portals like MyChart are many, challenges crop up, too. Help is only a phone call away. 44 | HEALTH INSURANCE HELP AND SURPRISES As residents roll through open enrollment, many are surprised to learn how much they can save on their health plans during the coming year. There are “assisters” in most counties ready to help people apply and enroll. 46 | WALKING HEROES HOME Honor Walks pay tribute to organ donors who give life to many others. Doctors, nurses, hospital staff and friends line the halls and cheer for the donors – a gesture that family members find both amazing and heartbreaking. 48 | THE PATH TO ORGAN DONATION Cathy Self was committed to her decision to donate a kidney to her good friend, but that didn’t keep her from frequently asking herself, “Do I really want to do this?” Ultimately, she did, and, through her path to donation, we learn. 50 | TRAVEL NURSE EXPLOSION Many nurses in full-time staff positions in hospitals have been enticed to transition into travel nursing, drawn by higher pay and a flexible schedule that allows for more vacation time and self-care to cope with stress and anxiety. 52 | STATE HEALTH INDEX The state of South Carolina recently got a report on its overall health for 2021 – and, based on the findings, the state is only a breath away from hitting rock bottom. 54 | BON APPETIT As friends and family members roll into your homes this season, the HealthLinks team hopes you will enjoy some of our tasty holiday favorites. To health, happiness and the holidays – cheers! CONTENTS DIRECTORIES Senior Health Care................................................................. 62 BY THE NUMBERS Memory Loss, Disease and Aging. ..................................... 13 IN EVERY ISSUE Publisher’s Note....................................................................... 6 About the Cover...................................................................... 7 Living Healthy Area Events...................................................... 8 The Lighter Side of Health Care. ........................................... 17 A Unique Case....................................................................... 56 There's an App for That......................................................... 58 Upstate Area Nonprofits........................................................ 60 The Pulse on Upstate Nurses. ................................................ 64 ISSUE 5.6 NOV/DEC 2022 UPSTATE SPONSORED MEDICAL CONTENT A History of Rehabilitation Success: Encompass Health.............. 32 Senior Independence for Better Living.................................. 33 Skilled Care and Assisted Living Community Rebounds From COVID. ......................................................................... 35 Managing This Season's Medicare Mischief.......................... 36 An Engaging Home is an Excellent Home............................. 39 Nurturing Normalcy in Dementia Care.................................. 40 Loosen Up: Physical Therapy for Shoulder Injuries................ 41 Restoration Senior Living Meets a Growing Need................. 43 FEATURES
6 | www.Ups tatePhys i c i ansSC . com | www.Hea l thL i nksUps tate. com 2022 has been a strange year. Its peaks and valleys seem to have heightened and deepened, creating an entity not unlike Disney’s Expedition Everest rollercoaster – ask your kids. At the outset of the year, I was ready to take over South Carolina’s health care information and marketing space. Finally, I thought, after nearly a decade of business partnerships, I was cast free to set my own standards, motivate my own team and instantly reach the pinnacle of success. Then life happened. Our big sister/sales manager had a stroke, paper costs increased 100% and we realized our websites and administrators all needed to be HIPAA compliant. The once smooth, silky and serene waters had quickly turned into the lake that never gives up her dead when the skies of November turn gloomy – ask our copy editor. Here come the icebergs, bringing with them a new understanding – the fact that business is hard! Like a puzzle whose pieces have been misplaced – or eaten by your dog – there’s no completion to business. It just meanders continuously, offering short-lived gratification but no true destination. This is why I chose to consciously enjoy the journey. Sometimes it’s nice to realize that the folks who work at HealthLinks love the magazine and believe in our mission. I’ll sit at my desk and listen to the team banter about nothing important and just smile. Heck, I bet if you caught him at just the perfect moment, even our copy editor might even tell you he doesn’t hate HealthLinks. Joking, Brian: You are the best. What a team we have created! My point is that the people around me enthuse my journey. Like any family, we may bicker and fuss, but, at the end of the day, we are here for the team and for the mission, both of which are far grander than any of us as individuals. From our HealthLinks family, I find confidence and security, not just since we are doing a wonderful job disseminating vital health information to our community but because we each have one another’s back when things inevitably go awry. We celebrate victories and commiserate in our defeats. We sometimes walk forward, sometimes backward and often sideways, but we always walk together. As the holiday season rolls around and we all take a collective deep breath, I want to take this opportunity to raise a glass – of wheat grass juice, of course – to this wonderfully flexible, immensely talented and relentlessly resilient HealthLinks team. Thanks for helping me get through this weird, wacky year. In 2023, look for HealthLinks to put an emphasis on providing even better, more thorough health articles, interviews and information and to seeing this content in more places than ever. As always, thanks for reading HealthLinks and cheers to a happy, healthy holiday season. Cullen Murray-Kemp, Publisher Cul len Murray Kemp UPSTATE Publisher CULLEN MURRAY-KEMP [email protected] Managing Editor LISA BRESLIN Assistant Editor MOLLY SHERMAN Copy Editor BRIAN SHERMAN Art Director KIM HALL Webmaster GEORGE CONKLIN Internet GENE PHAN Sales Manager MANDY WILLIS [email protected] Photography Partner CARIN SCATES carinscates.com Writers Media Consultant BRANDON CLARK [email protected] EMILY REILLY [email protected] Distribution Manager Latrale Gunther – [email protected] Distribution: C&R Marketing Administration & Bookkeeping GINGER SOTTILE Distribution U.S. Post Office, Harris Teeter, Ingles, CVS, Food Lion, Medical Offices TO ADVERTISE IN HEALTHLINKS UPSTATE PLEASE CALL 864-612-7694 MEDICAL MARKETING GROUP HealthLinks Upstate reserves the right to refuse advertisements. Acceptance of advertisements does not imply the service or product is recommended or endorsed by HealthLinks Upstate. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording or by any information storage and retrieval system, without written permission from Medical Marketing Group, LLC. Medical Marketing Group 4 Carriage Lane, Suite 107, Charleston, S.C. 29407 843-732-4110 • [email protected] Issue 5.6 NOV/DEC 2022 JANET E. PERRIGO L.C. LEACH III COLIN MCCANDLESS LAURA HAIGHT LEAH RHYNE ISABEL ALVAREZ ARATA STACY DOMINGO THERESA STRATFORD LISA BRESLIN MOLLY SHERMAN BILL FARLEY DENISE K. JAMES AMY GESELL LISA WACK RILEY MATHEWS PUBLISHER'S NOTE Scan to discover our other HealthLinks platforms!
www.Ups tatePhys i c i ansSC . com | www.Hea l thL i nksUps tate. com | 7 ABOUT THE COVER... As the leaves bring out their finest colors, and we all welcome the holidays into our homes, the editorial team and I thank you for opening the magazine to discover more about wellness and wellness resources. This issue of HealthLinks is a great one to tuck in your bag when you hit the road or the airport. It is packed with stories that will warm your heart and help your body feel less weary. You’ll discover ways to make travel less taxing. You’ll pick up tips – beyond word puzzles and exercise – for protecting the memory you have. Travel nurses talk about the growing trend to work in places far from home. We also shine a light on seniors and the people who help them live their best lives. Looking for some cooking inspiration? Check out the holiday recipes from HealthLinks team members. From our family to yours: Enjoy! It was an honor, and lots of fun, to bring this issue of HealthLinks to your homes – and your travel bags. To simple pleasures and good health, Lisa Breslin, Managing Editor NOV/DEC 2022 COMPLIMENTARY NOV/DEC 2022 MEMORY PRESERVE YOUR PRECIOUS TRAVEL NURSE EXPLOSION HONOR WALKS FOR ORGAN DONORS SPECIAL SENIOR HEALTH ISSUE UP S TAT E CHARLESTON | DORCHESTER | BERKELEY ABBEVILLE | ANDERSON | CHEROKE | GREENVILLE | GREENWOOD | LAURENS | PICKENS | OCONEE | UNION | SPARTANBURG SANTA’S LIST FOR PETS UPSTATE HIGH-QUALITY, BEAUTIFUL PHOTOGRAPHY See through a different lens!
8 | www.Ups tatePhys i c i ansSC . com | www.Hea l thL i nksUps tate. com HEALTHY AREA EVENTS l ving NOVEMBER 24 Grief Support Group The Cancer Society of Greenville County Noon The Cancer Society of South Carolina offers support and assistance navigating the grief process for those affected by the death of a loved one. cancersocietygc.org DECEMBER 3 The Honor Gala The Bleckly Inn, Anderson 7 p.m. NOVEMBER 19 Girls on the Run 5K Celebration USC Upstate Campus, Spartanburg 9:30 a.m. This is the fall celebratory event of Girls on the Run Upstate that marks the end of 10 weeks of coaching to learn life skills that strengthen physical and emotional health. Members of the community are invited to register and run with the girls to celebrate their success and support GOTR’s mission. gotrupstatesc.org NOVEMBER 20 Getting Ready for Baby – Patewood Patewood Memorial Hospital 6 p.m. Informative class for new or soon-to-be parents. Guidelines for normal newborn appearance and behavior, care and procedures and tests that would benefit babies that need special care. Registration is required. Call 864-797-1020. NOVEMBER 19 Zoom Through the Zoo Greenville Zoo 8 a.m. A healthy and family-friendly Saturday morning, you’ll wind your way through the Greenville Zoo to your most fun 5K ever. Less of a cheetah and more of a tortoise? Participants can walk the course at their own pace in the Kid's Fun Run. greenvillezoofoundation.org Dear America Foundation and Asher House come together to raise money for each foundation's mission of meeting the needs of veterans and first responders and youth in crisis. Enjoy dinner, dancing, live and silent auctions. Tickets can be purchased at eventbrite.com. Asher House: asherhouse.org
www.Ups tatePhys i c i ansSC . com | www.Hea l thL i nksUps tate. com | 9 DECEMBER 2 Hearts and Hands Gala Greenville Convention Center 6:30 p.m. Benefiting Ronald McDonald House Charities of the Carolinas, Hearts & Hands invite you to An Evening in Ireland. Complete with a cocktail reception, a traditional Irish dinner and entertainment, spend your evening transported to the lush, green hills of Ireland. rmhc-carolinas.org DECEMBER 5 Crunk Cardio Headquarters Library – Barrett Room Spartanburg 6 p.m. Bored with the gym? Need more spice in your workout program? Visit the Spartanburg Library for a fun and lively dance fitness workout. Space is limited so call ahead! 864-596-3500. DECEMBER 8 A Child’s Haven Holiday Benefit Bash 2022 Hugenot Loft, Greenville 6:30 p.m. An evening of music, dancing and food, A Child’s Haven invites you to attend its second annual Holiday Benefit Bash fundraiser. Your participation will contribute to A Child’s Haven’s mission of assisting children with “. . .developmental delays as a result of limited resources, abuse or neglect.” achildshaven.org DECEMBER 31 New Year’s Eve 2023 Southern Gala Commerce Club, Greenville 8:30 p.m. This black-tie optional New Year’s Eve gala supports the National Alliance of Mental Illness Greenville and Tell Every Amazing Lady About Ovarian Cancer. It offers an evening complete with a red-carpet entry, cocktails, heavy hors d’oeuvres, a DJ/live band fusion, a champagne toast and more. southerngala.com DECEMBER 3RD PARADE IS AT 5:30 WITH FESTIVAL TO FOLLOW Carriage rides, food, tree lighting ceremony, bounces and mechanical rides. For more details, go to www.cityofinman.org
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www.Ups tatePhys i c i ansSC . com | www.Hea l thL i nksUps tate. com | 11 MEMORY: THE BATTLE TO KEEP IT Einstein called it deceptive, Spanish artist Salvador Dali dedicated a painting to its persistence and U.S. writer William S. Burroughs once claimed that it kept people trapped within their own pasts. They were all speaking of the human memory, how it affects people’s outlook, perspective and their ability of recall. By L. C. Leach III
12 | www.Ups tatePhys i c i ansSC . com | www.Hea l thL i nksUps tate. com As the U.S. population keeps living longer, the human memory – and how to make it last past the age of 100 or longer – is not just a concern for seniors. It is one of the most critical elements to keeping people of any age mentally sharp and healthy. “Memory is our ability to gather, retain and retrieve information,” said Sara Perry, certified dementia practitioner and executive director of Respite Care Charleston. “While we’re not certain how it works exactly, several different parts of the brain are engaged in the process as we recall, recognize, recollect and re-learn information.” In that process are all kinds of memory that can be triggered or eliminated, gradually or swiftly. BIG, SMALL AND INEXPLICABLE Ask any hundred people who grew up in the 1940s where they were and what they were doing when they heard about the bombing of Pearl Harbor. Chances are that every one of them could remember. But ask any hundred people now what their current car insurance policy covers, and they are likely to respond with more shrugs than answers. Perry pointed out that while things like a personal insurance policy might seem more important for someone to remember, both short- and long-term memory are tied to its significance “and the amount of attention we give it.” “If you forget what you walked into the kitchen for, chances are you were distracted or not that focused on why you went there,” Perry said. “On the other hand, most people can remember exactly where they were and what they were doing when they learned of JFK’s assassination or the terrorist attacks on Sept. 11, 2001. Those were major events that had a tremendous impact on almost everyone alive at the time, so we paid more attention and are more likely to remember them.” And, of course, there is the inexplicable flyby, the memory long forgotten – like a casual comment 50 years ago from a grade-school classmate – that suddenly comes back. “Everyone forgets things, regardless of age,” Perry said. “And while occasional lapses of memory are normal as we grow older, significant memory loss and cognitive decline that impairs day-to-day life are not normal parts of aging and should be discussed with your doctor.” YOUNGER ALL THE TIME Aging itself is becoming a more relative factor in both memory loss and retention. Consider Peggy, a three-year resident of Mount Pleasant Gardens, an Alzheimer’s community that serves 64 residents. Every day, Peggy exercises, listens to music and figures out puzzles – the same things she when she was 20 or 30. “But age has a tendency to change you,” she said. When it does, the battle for memory begins. “Short-term memory in our residents is the first memory to go,” said Denise Kish, executive director of Mount Pleasant Gardens. “Our residents have a mixture of long-term memory and some short-term. And we try to keep the short-term going by doing consistent events each day.” But Kish, Perry and Charleston senior consultant Diane Sancho all pointed out that memory loss and disease are not exclusive to seniors. “Though less common, younger adults can have dementia, too,” Perry said. “Respite Care Charleston has served many people in the community who began showing signs of memory loss in their 40s, several of whom had late-stage dementia or succumbed to the disease in their early 50s.” Sancho, executive director of Alice’s Clubhouse Memory Care Day Center, who has worked with senior-living communities for more than 20 years, said people needing help from early-stage memory loss “are much younger now.” “We have had nurses, artists, contractors, mayors, lawyers, corporals, an anesthesiologist and a university professor who taught six languages, to name just a few,” said Sancho. “Very few have prior brain injuries, and the majority of our newest members are in their late 60s and mid-70s – far younger now than when I started. Wish I knew the answer to why.” REDUCING RISK Because of the innumerable, subtle differences between each individual brain, finding an answer, or perhaps many answers, is nearly as complex as the brain itself. Dr. Mendell Rimer, professor at the Texas A&M University College of Medicine, reported in 2018 that synapses, which serve to connect the brain to the rest of our body – are not only “essential for life” but that memory may also involve the creation of new synapses. “Synapses underlie our memory formation and learning,” Dr. Rimer said. “In dementia, synapse loss or weakening would therefore lead to decreased learning ability, memory loss and memory disorders.” While there is no cure for Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia, both Sancho and Perry said their members and patients intend to keep every part of their memory in every way possible – regardless of their individual condition or treatment. “Our members at Alice’s Clubhouse are in early-to-mid-stage dementia, and the day center is a place they look forward to joining,” Sancho said. Perry added that while her Respite Care patients walk, play chess, take Spanish lessons, eat the right foods and read books to keep their memory fresh and vibrant, it’s still a gamble. “If I had it all to do over again, I don't know what I’d do differently, because I don't know what caused my dementia,” said Fred, a patient at Respite Care Charleston. “You can still get it even if you do everything right."
www.Ups tatePhys i c i ansSC . com | www.Hea l thL i nksUps tate. com | 13 TIPS TO GUARD AGAINST MEMORY LOSS While there is currently no foolproof way to guard against cognitive memory loss, Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia, there are many simple ways to improve your chances of keeping these illnesses away – and your memory intact. “Food, for instance, is a huge contributor to keeping or losing our memory,” said Nita Leary, an integrative nutrition health coach in Greenville. “The right foods keep our brains as healthy as possible, and I recommend foods that are free of chemical pesticides.” Both Leary and Sara Perry, executive director with Respite Care Charleston, advise a diet rich in fruits and vegetables, lowfat proteins, limited sugar and minimal processed foods. Complementing this diet are eight healthy habits: “I’ve noticed in the past decade that younger people are beginning to become more concerned about what they eat – whereas kids born in the 1990s and before weren’t as aware,” Leary said. Perry added that while there is still no guarantee against memory loss, a healthy lifestyle can greatly reduce the risk. “The risk of dementia increases as we grow older,” she said. “But credible research has consistently pointed to some basic actions we should all take to keep our brain healthy and memory intact.” MEMORY LOSS, DISEASE AND AGING By the Numbers More than 55 MILLION people live with dementia worldwide. There are nearly 10 million new cases every year. – World Health Organization There are more than 54.1 MILLION seniors in the United States. Older adults are projected to outnumber children by 2034 for the first time in U.S. history. – U.S. Census Bureau More than 6 MILLION Americans of all ages suffer from Alzheimer’s.Barring the development of a cure or a medical breakthrough to prevent or slow the disease, this number is projected to grow to 12.7 MILLION by the year 2050 . – Alzheimer’s Association 7 COMMON CAUSES OF MEMORY LOSS • Medications • Minor head trauma or injury • Emotional disorders, such as stress, anxiety or depression • Alcoholism • Vitamin B12 deficiency • Brain tumors or infections • Sleep apnea – Mayo Clinic • Get plenty of sleep; • Don’t smoke; • Drink in moderation; • Stay mentally active; • Socialize and avoid isolation; • Minimize stress; • Exercise regularly as recommended by your doctor, based on your medical situation; • Manage chronic conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure and depression.
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HIT THE ROAD; SPARE YOUR BODY Contributing writers: Lisa Wack, Molly Sherman and Lisa Breslin. Long hours crammed into cars, planes and trains can make even the most fit body cranky. Following a few tips and tricks can curb the chances that crankiness will creep into your neck, hips, back and mood.
16 | www.Ups tatePhys i c i ansSC . com | www.Hea l thL i nksUps tate. com TIPS FROM A FREQUENT FLYER Charleston resident Joni Nickoley, 57, is no stranger to long-distance travel. For more that 10 years, her job with a global chemical company has included frequent 10- to 14-hour trips to the Asian Pacific and beyond. • “I stay hydrated and I stretch before, during and after each trip,” Nickoley said. “When I can, I walk up and down the aisle during flights. For hydration, I carry a small hydro flask in my backpack and refill it. I also avoid soda because it causes inflammation.” • “The bags you carry matter, too,” she added. “I used to take a computer bag that hung over one shoulder. It’s better to use a backpack to distribute the weight.” TIPS FROM A DOCTOR Dr. Andrew McMarlin is board-certified in sports medicine and brings 25 years of elite athlete experience to his patients at Winning Health in Mount Pleasant. • “Make the driving part of the trip more of an enjoyable experience rather than an ordeal,” said Dr. McMarlin. “It’s easy to say, ‘Stop every two hours to stretch your back and legs,’ but when you’re on the highway, you just don’t do that unless you have it planned out already.” • “Look at a map before you go and pick some interesting spots: a scenic overlook, the World’s Largest Ball of String,” Dr. McMarlin added. “You may not want to stop to go to the bathroom, but that actually ensures you are stopping and stretching, too.” • “Having said that, you don’t have to go to the bathroom nonstop, which happens if you drink plain water,” McMarlin said. “Hydrate with fluid electrolytes such as coconut water with a little bit of juice and Natural Calm magnesium water.” • And finally, “Make sure to take care of your back. If you are not lucky enough to have one of the newer cars that has amazing lumbar support, your low-to-mid back needs stretching and added support,” he added. TIPS FROM A MOBILE MASSAGE THERAPIST Lakeisha Peay, LMT, the owner of Divine Mobile Massage, has brought relief to residents in the Greenville and Charleston areas for several years. Clients seek relief for neck, shoulder and back pains, especially after long road trips. Peay tends to offer Swedish and deep tissue massages to ease all the crankiness. Clients have also found relief when she uses hot towels or hot stones. Peay sometimes travels eight hours a day to meet her clients. As a result, she practices the following tips that she preaches: • Use a heating pad when you drive or fly. • Allow yourself to stop and get snacks at the gas station; you are stretching and hopefully getting more water to hydrate. • Do stretches that include shoulder rotations and bends to touch your toes. “I can tell the difference if I skip any of these tips,” Peay said. “My body lets me know – trust me.” B O U T I Q U E C L O T H I N G A N D G I F T S H O P rusticjemaboutique.com Rustic Jem a Boutique 4A Mill St., Inman, SC BRING THIS AD FOR 10% OFF
www.Ups tatePhys i c i ansSC . com | www.Hea l thL i nksUps tate. com | 17 While I “pondered weak and weary” by the flickering light of … a Bic disposable I was using to light a postprandial cheroot – Relax: I was alone and outdoors – I asked myself when we’d know that the COVID pandemic was over. The answer came back “Nevermore!” An appropriate response in a Lowcountry that honors the poet Poe. And that, of course, is true. Like the seasonal flu, COVID is nothing more or less than a virus. It’s not going to be wiped out, in large part because it’s constantly changing. Newer vaccines will emerge, sometimes actually preventing infection and almost always ameliorating COVID’s symptoms. But there’ll be no raising Old Glory atop Mount Suribachi at Iwo Jima or Churchillian display of the “V for Victory” salute. The best we can hope for is that, like an Atlantic hurricane being downgraded to a tropical storm, COVID will be labeled first an “epidemic” and finally just a seasonal annoyance. And that’s all good. No one asks for your “vaccine passport” anymore and even most doctors’ offices – including my own – no longer require either patients or practitioners to wear masks. Folks doing their grocery shopping with N95s plus plastic shields or wrapping their heads in bandanas or T-shirts or whatever else they could cobble together to fend of the “bug” seem like distant, quaint memories. And the once omnipresent hand sanitizing stations lie idle. Of course, that’s not stopping the conversation about COVID. Not by a long shot. Recently, your faithful disciple of Asclepius attended a cocktail party – a soiree, if you will. There, he was chatting about world affairs with a former State Department envoy when a woman of a certain age broke into our confab demanding to know where she could find free COVID tests. Within our small gathering, the answers were varied. One man offered, “You can get ’em at your pharmacy.” Another demurred, “But those aren’t free. You have to buy them.” A third gentleman suggested, “You can go to a government website and order them. I don’t know how many you can get at one time. Those are definitely free to you, but, somewhere, somebody’s paying for them!” “The American taxpayer!” added a second woman grumpily, as if none of the rest of us shared her taxpaying burden. A kibitzer plunked his Martini down at our table confrontationally: “What the hell do you want COVID tests for now? If you get sick, you’re positive. If you don’t, you’re negative. Or do you just get a kick out of testing yourself?” I could sense that the COVID conversation might be taking a nasty turn, so I begged to be excused and busied myself with the hors d’oeuvres selection. I’ve always believed that it’s counterproductive to overreact to any health threat, no matter how ominous or how many protections against it are recommended. Now, if I could just figure out what to do with that gallon jug of aloe vera and bottle of grain alcohol I stashed two years ago when I thought that all the hand sanitizers would run out, and I’d have to cobble together my own. I’ll never have enough sunburns to use up all that aloe vera. Of course, if a COVID upsurge ever traps me in my humble home again, that fifth of alcohol could come in handy! THE END OF THE PANDEMIC? The Lighter Side of Health Care By Dr. Duke
18 | www.Ups tatePhys i c i ansSC . com | www.Hea l thL i nksUps tate. com Santa is making his list and checking it twice to see which family pet has been naughty or nice. As pets make it to Santa’s list and family members shop for them, they should keep this goal in mind: gifts, especially toys, should be species-appropriate, appeal to the pet’s natural instincts and provide enrichment that safely engages the pet mentally and physically. After consulting local pet experts and enthusiasts, HealthLinks compiled a list of top dog and cat toys GIVE NAUGHTY AND NICE PETS
www.Ups tatePhys i c i ansSC . com | www.Hea l thL i nksUps tate. com | 19 that will make excellent holiday gifts. Satisfying their natural desire to hunt is central to cat and dog play. It’s essential to buy species-appropriate gifts for pets because cats and dogs have different needs, drives and behaviors. In addition, toys designed for humans or a particular pet may pose a choking or poisoning hazard when shared with the wrong species. Regardless, supervision is key to ensuring a pet is interacting safely with a new toy. GREAT GIFTS By Isabel Alvarz Arata
20 | www.Ups tatePhys i c i ansSC . com | www.Hea l thL i nksUps tate. com TOYS FOR DOGS Kailey Chisolm from Hollywood Feed in West Ashley recommends Patchwork Pet’s Gingerbread House and Men plush toy for an interactive holiday-themed gift. “The dog has to root around to get the squeaky gingerbread men out of the house,” she said. “The house can also be stuffed with treats and kibble to keep the dog sniffing.” Cathy Bennett of Groovy Goldendoodles and the therapy animal program coordinator at MUSC, is a fan of dog-friendly tennis balls. “Plain and simple, they're easy to carry, rinse and dry quickly from drool, beach sand or mud, and are reasonably priced,” she asserted. Those looking for an interesting take on tennis balls might enjoy The Petstages Grunt 'N Punt Tennis Ball, which keeps dogs engaged by making a grunting sound. Outward Hound’s Orbee-Tuff Soccer Ball Treat-Dispensing Dog Chew Toy is another great way to keep dogs entertained as they push the ball around to get their treats. The toy can be safely used inside and outdoors, in the water or on land. TOYS FOR CATS Kimberly Layman, founder of Kimberly’s Kritter Care in North Charleston, recommended the Cat Catcher by Go Cat. “It’s just a small mouse on a wire with a wand, but every cat I’ve used it with absolutely loves it, “she said. “I especially like to use wands before mealtime so the cat can “hunt” for its food,” she explained. Charleston cat groomer Whitney Bullock loves Zanies Fur Mice by PetEdge. “My three cats still love those tiny, furry mice that they have on the counters at pet stores. They are about 2 inches long, covered in fake fur and are usually displayed inside a big cardboard box that looks like a wedge of cheese. They make great stocking stuffers.” For busy families, South Carolina-based cat expert and behavior consultant Rita Reimers of the Cat Behavior Alliance recommends a USB-charged mouse. “It’s activated by the cat’s touch, has a feather attachment and it’s oblong, so it wobbles, making the feather jerk around like real prey,” she explained.
www.Ups tatePhys i c i ansSC . com | www.Hea l thL i nksUps tate. com | 21 GRRH.ERNESTHEALTH.COM 1530 Parkway Road • Greenwood, SC 29646 Greenwood Regional Rehabilitation Hospital provides nationally-recognized rehabilitative care close to home. At our 46-bed rehabilitation hospital, we offer specialized medical and rehabilitative care for individuals who have suffered from debilitating injuries, illnesses, and chronic medical conditions. For more information about our nationally-recognized services or to schedule a tour, please call us at 864.330.1800 or visit us online at GRRH.ernesthealth.com. PROUDLY RANKED IN THE TOP 10% STROKE CERTIFIED SRI.ERNESTHEALTH.COM 160 Harold Fleming Court • Spartanburg, SC 29303 864.594.9823 864.594.9600 Follow Us STROKE CERTIFIED | AMPUTEE CERTIFIED Memory and mood changes, difficulty sleeping, shortness of breath, fatigue, and pain are just some of the issues experienced by many of those recovering from COVID-19. To help patients combat these problems and work toward recovery, we proudly offer a post-COVID rehabilitation program, featuring: • Physical, occupational, and speech therapy evaluations • Personalized plans of care led by rehab specialists • Strategies for managing energy, sleep, nutrition, and overall wellbeing • Transition programs for return to life at home or work • Instruction on at-home exercises and caregiver support To learn more about inpatient or outpatient post-COVID rehabilitation services at Spartanburg Rehabilitation Institute, please contact us today!
22 | www.Ups tatePhys i c i ansSC . com | www.Hea l thL i nksUps tate. com “I think the people that are most vulnerable for it are the people going through change,” said Jordan Rasmussen, a licensed professional counselor with Thriveworks in Charleston, which specializes in life transitions, anxiety, relationships, coping skills and depression. Breakups, bereavement and job changes are milestones of change when loneliness may creep in, Rasmussen noted. Those experiencing isolating life experiences, such as caring for a child alone or being in a cycle of abuse, also seem to be at a higher risk for feeling lonely. LONELY BUT NOT ALONE By Molly Sherman Those who are feeling really lonely often are not alone or apart from others; they describe loneliness as a feeling of not being heard or understood, even if they are surrounded by people.
www.Ups tatePhys i c i ansSC . com | www.Hea l thL i nksUps tate. com | 23 The meaning of loneliness is more about the perceived connectedness to others than it is about being around others. Those who feel isolated or unhappy with their social relationships are not experiencing feelings of connection. People may have many opportunities for connection – a full room, the capabilities of the internet to reach out to anyone at any time – and still struggle to feel connected and less alone. Emotional loneliness – not merely being alone but rather feeling alone, abandoned or anxious – was associated with mortality in a study published in Psychosomatic Medicine, Journal of Biobehavioral Medicine. Specifically, each standard deviation from the UCLA Loneliness Scale sample average was associated with an 18.6% increase in risk for all causes of mortality. Social loneliness was not associated with mortality. The study considered this emotional feeling of loneliness, regardless of social context, to be “the toxic component of loneliness.” Rasmussen described her own observations of physical impacts on patient physical health such as low energy, pain
24 | www.Ups tatePhys i c i ansSC . com | www.Hea l thL i nksUps tate. com sensations, weight fluctuation, poor hygiene and a weakened immune system, in addition to an increased risk for depression, low self-esteem, anxiety and stress, noting that “physical and mental always go hand in hand.” While research acknowledges the challenge of measuring social isolation and loneliness precisely, there are growing observations of health risks for lonely adults. In a study of patients with heart failure, published in the Journal of the American Heart Association, a greater perception of social isolation, as determined by a short-form social isolation survey, was associated with an increased risk of death, hospitalization and emergency department and outpatient visits, even after controlling for depressive systems. The National Institute of Aging has highlighted research linking loneliness to higher risks of high blood pressure, cognitive decline and Alzheimer’s disease. These studies and many others identify the value of acknowledging psychological factors in health and healing in designing interventions that improve patient outcomes and general health. We can do some of this preventive and treatment work for ourselves by recognizing cycles of loneliness and how to disrupt them. “When people are lonely, they lock themselves in a place,” said Rasmussen. “They feel like they don’t have the energy.” She encourages people to create a different response and break the cycle of isolation, practice mindfulness or create a distraction by having broken the flow of those internal thoughts: “If you’re out doing something, you’re less in your head.” Hobbies or activities such as walking, listening to music or creating art focuses the mind, connects people to a medium that is inherently shared and creates an opportunity for future, rich connections around the venture. They also might explore support groups and online communities on social media. “People do better when they talk and they find someone who understands what they are going through – when they feel somebody else gets it,” said Rasmussen. Hitting a reset on thought process can help with emotional loneliness. People can “practice catching the unhelpful thoughts that lead to unhelpful feelings,” Rasmussen explained. Cognitive behavioral therapy is particularly useful for “catching.” As hard as it may seem to explore new activities with new people – or as part of a new path to healing – Rasmussen hopes people will just try: “We can all do hard things. We can all do new things. But we cannot let fear be the driving force to the decisions to not try new things.”
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26 | www.Ups tatePhys i c i ansSC . com | www.Hea l thL i nksUps tate. com “There is definitely a connection between service and better physical and mental health. I know it is happening, but it is hard to articulate what ‘it’ is,” said Mark Rentfrow, a physical therapist for the past seven years at Alice’s Clubhouse Memory Care Day Center in Mount Pleasant. Results of a study published in BMC Public Health, a peer-reviewed journal that publishes articles on the epidemiology of disease and the understanding of all aspects of public health, demonstrates that “other-oriented” volunteering has significantly stronger effects on mental and physical health, life satisfaction and social well-being when compared to self-oriented volunteering. Other-oriented volunteering has altruistic features and demonstrates concern and care for other’s needs, such as health care or education work, the study reveals. In self-oriented volunteering, the volunteer’s motivation is defined by the desire to develop social networks, acquire skills or evade personal problems. SERVICE SERVES THE BODY People often decide to volunteer to make a difference and improve lives other than their own – and an ever-growing body of research suggests that volunteering offers health benefits that reach beyond the conventionally recognized social and emotional advantages. By Molly Sherman
These findings suggest that the benefits of volunteering are greater when done for the sake of others and not with the expectation of compensation; however, that does not mean there is no “pay.” “I get a lot of what I like to call psychic income out of working with our participants, particularly a big smile, laughing, cheering,” said Rick Blinn in Respite Care Charleston’s Volunteer Spotlight. “Any kind of indication that they are really enjoying what’s going on gives me a whole lot of enjoyment.” Individuals who volunteer may experience a lower rate of mortality than those who do not, even when considering physical health, according to an analysis of data from the Longitudinal Study of Aging. This correlation demonstrates a connection between wellness and volunteering. “As corny as it sounds, our work is driven by love – plain and simple,” said Sara Perry of Respite Care Charleston. “It's incredibly rewarding work, and life doesn't get much better than that.” Diane Sancho, MSW, executive director of Alice’s Clubhouse, has seen firsthand the positive effects of service among “givers” with dementia. “We have learned that people who were givers in their lives want to keep giving even as their minds fade,” Sancho explained. “When they can give, or when they receive kindness, there are positive effects on their well-being every day.” Sancho recalled a previous mayor who, despite her dementia, continued to advocate for women’s rights – as she had done most of her life – into her mid 80s. The continued advocacy activated her mind. A retired anesthesiologist who was used to putting people at ease continues to put Alice’s Clubhouse members at ease with his words, and a gentleman’s piano playing improves as he plays for others.
28 | www.Ups tatePhys i c i ansSC . com | www.Hea l thL i nksUps tate. com “His music is magic to everyone, and he feels good giving back,” Sancho said. The observations of Sancho and others continue to be reflected in studies of patients experiencing health conditions and hoping to prevent health complications. In a study by the American Society of Pain Management Nurses, individuals suffering from chronic pain experienced a decline in pain intensity, levels of disability and depression when they served as peer volunteers for others in chronic pain. Narrative data notes that a feeling of connection and sense of purpose emerged. As for disease prevention, findings suggest volunteerism may be an effective, non-pharmacological intervention for hypertension, a risk factor for cardiovascular disease, stroke and mortality. A Carnegie Mellon University study confirmed that of 1,654 participants between the ages of 51 and 91, those who had volunteered 200 hours or more in a year were 40% less likely to develop hypertension than nonvolunteers. Extending this observation on volunteering and heart health, an analysis by AmeriCorps using health and volunteering data from the U.S. Census Bureau and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention confirmed that “states with higher volunteer rates are more likely to have lower rates of mortality and less incidence of heart disease.” In South Carolina, 30.8% of residents volunteer, which is 32nd among the 50 states. The death rate for heart disease in 2020 was 31st. “For some, it’s a way of giving back to an organization that served someone they loved. For others, volunteering is a way of ‘paying it forward,’” Perry said. “Whether the kindness manifests by pulling out a chair for someone or helping them when they walk, the social aspect makes a huge difference with regard to their health and mental status,” Sancho added. “We have learned that people who were givers in their lives want to keep giving even as their minds fade,” Sancho explained. “When they can give, or when they receive kindness, there are positive effects on their well-being every day.”
www.Ups tatePhys i c i ansSC . com | www.Hea l thL i nksUps tate. com | 29 TM Where you go for your therapy truly matters, and it’s your choice. I CHOOSE EXCEL BECAUSE... I WANT TO MAKE MEMORIES. ONE ON ONE PATIENT CARE SAME THERAPIST EVERY VISIT 24 TO 48 HOUR SCHEDULING HANDS-ON MANUAL THERAPY 864.654.2001 If you are experiencing pain or discomfort, you can receive the Physical, Occupational and Hand therapy you need and deserve through direct access or through a physician’s referral. EASLEY | CLEMSON | SENECA www.excelrehabsports.com #GetHereGetBetter Based on 15-year Patient Satisfaction Survey Data I’m Sick... I need a doctor... NEED A DOCTOR? www.upstatephysicianssc.com Fill out our simple form and within 24 Hours you will be contacted by one of our Physician Partners.
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