Participation

The Gallop poll found that 43 percent of Americans report weekly or almost weekly church attendance (2010). Consider participating in religious services or discover (rediscover) religious rituals that might be helpful for you to practice. Examples might include worship rites, sacraments special ceremonies, celebrations, and holy holidays.

Socializing

Socializing involves engagement in family and community activities of a social or religious nature (see Participating). Find outlets for engaging with and in social communities or groups. Clubs and organizations may be good options. There are faith communities that host support groups, workshops, travel (tours) and service projects. Discovering or re-engaging your hobbies or passions may direct you to workshops, shows (i.e. dog or horse, train or modeling), even competitions where like-minded people provide opportunities for socializing.

There are Facebook sites that support LVAD patients and their caregivers. One example is the group page, LVAD Recipients, hosted by a patient’s spouse/caregiver.

Social media specific to LVAD patients and their caregiver are not intended to offer medical or mechanical information, diagnosis or treatment.