HealthLinks Upstate Nov/Dec 2022

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

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