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October 2023

Featured

Unlocking the Health Benefits of Animal Companionship

by Ambrose Lennon on

Animal companionship offers a multitude of advantages that can enrich our lives in various ways. From the heartwarming feeling of being greeted with yips and happy howls to the reassuring comfort they provide during stressful times, our daily interactions with pets can make a profound impact. Many of these benefits are supported by research and can have surprising effects. Let’s delve into the intricate connection between pets and human health while also touching upon pet care.

Let’s kick off by exploring how pets contribute to our physical well-being. We all recognize the importance of daily exercise for maintaining our physical health. However, the demands of our busy lives often make it challenging to stay active. Whether it’s the constraints of a sedentary job or the balancing act of a hectic family schedule, there are times when we fall short. Fortunately, pets, especially dogs, can help. Our four-legged pals serve as motivators, encouraging us to get up and move as we attend to their needs or take them for vigorous walks.

Closely intertwined with owning a pet is heart health. Regular exercise is associated with lower blood pressure and a reduced risk of heart disease. Studies reveal that pet owners tend to have lower triglyceride and cholesterol levels, both of which are indicators of heart disease, compared to those without pets. The combination of stress reduction and increased physical activity levels can lead to an overall improvement in physical health.

Furthermore, animal companions can provide a plethora of mental health benefits. Research has revealed that pet owners are less likely to experience depression and loneliness than individuals without pets. This phenomenon is believed to be a result from chemical reactions that occur in our brains when we interact with our furry loved ones. Playing with a cat, dog, or other beloved pet can boost serotonin and dopamine levels in a person, providing a sense of calm. Such relaxation is particularly valuable for those dealing with high levels of stress or anxiety.

In addition to these chemical reactions, the mere presence of a pet in the household can foster a sense of attachment and emotional well-being. There’s also a social dimension to pet ownership. Our animal companions offer us companionship and, especially in the case of dogs, facilitate social interactions. Whether it’s striking up conversations with fellow dog owners at the park or feeling more at ease during social gatherings at someone’s home, pets can greatly enhance our overall social involvement.

These examples merely scratch the surface. For those interested in learning more about the complex connection between pets and human health, and perhaps considering a Pumpkin Pet Insurance comparison, we encourage you to explore the accompanying resource made by the experts at Shop Pet Insurance.

Infographic provided by Shop Pet Insurance
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Health Care

Utilizing Communication To Improve Physician-Patient Relationships

by Ambrose Lennon on

The current state of our healthcare system leaves much to be desired. One area in particular where improvements could be made is in physician-patient communication. Below is a brief look into how medical professionals might enhance their side of the conversation to improve patient satisfaction and, in turn, patient outcomes.

There are many roadblocks when it comes to effective communication in healthcare. A significant factor is that patients often do not possess the health literacy to fully comprehend medical information, whether it’s given orally or through written instructions. In fact, research shows only a mere 12% of adults are proficient in health literacy. When there is a lack of understanding in this area, it can make communicating with providers more difficult, negatively impact self-care and have other detrimental effects on patient outcomes.

To combat this and similar factors impacting communication, it’s important for physicians to be mindful of how they interact with patients and make strides to develop more meaningful relationships. Doing so often starts with establishing trust from the onset. When first greeting a patient, it’s vital to maintain eye contact and take steps to make him or her comfortable. Along the same lines is remaining empathetic while practicing active listening. If a patient misses out on these valuable conducts, it could lead to feelings of being unacknowledged or uncomfortable. Although it may seem challenging to build a rapport at times, it’s an important consideration for doctors of all disciplines.

When it comes time to explain patient values, treatment options and other technical information, a key thing to remember is that even the slightest of changes in tone or word choice can be beneficial. The same goes for watching non-verbal cues, since these may affect the patient’s perception of the physician as well as what’s being communicated. It also helps to ask patients to repeat what was said when instructing on self-care or medication use. Putting effort behind these actions helps to foster trust and leads to a healthy partnership between physician and patient.

On a larger scale, there are ways to improve patient outcomes from the organizational level. For instance, there are many cases where patients may require more time spent with their doctor to fully understand what has been discussed. Structural changes could be put into place to allow additional time, despite heavy workloads stemming from staffing shortages and other issues impacting the healthcare industry. Furthermore, patients should be encouraged to make regular appointments. This helps to reassure patients that their recovery is being prioritized and attended to by those they’ve entrusted with their care.

For more information on the importance of effective physician-patient communication, please see the accompanying resource.

Infographic provided by Endicott Call Center, experts on inbound call center outsourcing
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Family

Taking Care Of Yourself: A Surrogate Mother’s Guide To Maternity Leave

by Ambrose Lennon on

Choosing to become a surrogate mother is an extraordinary act of love and generosity, providing hope and happiness to those longing for a family. However, you need to take the surrogacy process step by step. As you embark on this transformative journey, navigating maternity leave becomes essential to ensure a smooth and fulfilling experience. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you manage maternity leave as a surrogate mother.

  1. Familiarize Yourself with the Legal Aspects: Take the time to understand the legal aspects of maternity leave for surrogate mothers in your region. Knowing your rights and protections will provide you with the necessary support during this period.
  1. Maintain Open Communication: Establish a strong and open line of communication with the intended parents. Discuss maternity leave plans, your availability post-delivery, and any preferences or expectations you may have.
  1. Prioritize Your Health: Your well-being is paramount throughout the pregnancy. Prioritize self-care by attending regular prenatal check-ups, maintaining a healthy diet, and engaging in appropriate prenatal exercises.
  1. Plan for Post-Delivery Recovery: Prepare for the post-delivery period by organizing a support system of family and friends. This will give you the time and assistance needed to recuperate after childbirth.
  1. Seek Emotional Support: Surrogacy can evoke various emotions, so seek emotional support when needed. Consider joining support groups for surrogate mothers or engaging in counseling to share experiences and feelings.
  1. Discuss Financial Matters: Clarify financial matters, including compensation and medical expenses, to ensure a transparent and stress-free maternity leave.
  1. Create a Surrogacy Journal: Document your surrogacy journey in a journal. Writing about your experiences, thoughts, and feelings can serve as a cherished keepsake for you and the intended parents.
  1. Celebrate Your Contribution: Embrace your role as a surrogate mother and celebrate the profound impact you are making on the intended parents’ lives. Recognize the incredible gift you are providing to them.
  1. Set Boundaries: Establish clear boundaries regarding your involvement during maternity leave. Ensure that both you and the intended parents are aligned in terms of expectations and responsibilities.
  1. Embrace the Journey: Embrace the surrogacy journey with a positive mindset and open heart. Knowing that you are creating a life-changing experience for others will fill your maternity leave with purpose and fulfillment.

In conclusion, managing maternity leave as a surrogate mother requires communication, self-care, and preparation. By understanding your rights, prioritizing your health, and fostering open communication with the intended parents, you can embark on this journey with confidence and joy.

Infographic provided by International Surrogacy Center

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