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Still Hopes residents are vibrant and staying positive, despite being a year and a half into the Covid pandemic like the rest of the world. So Stephanie Parker, Still Hopes’ Director of Public Relations, wanted to know their secret. She learned from a podcast about “Tiny Anchors” - little events, routines, or rituals that provided a sense of comfort during troubling times. She asked the Still Hopes residents what their “Tiny Anchors” are, and received an overwhelming response! These responses seemed to follow three themes… family and friends, finding fun in the little things, and above all… faith. Retirement Community West Columbia SC.

Family and Friends

While many senior living communities in Columbia, SC were on complete lockdown, Still Hopes residents and staff managed to get creative, allowing for social distancing opportunities that balanced safety with fun. Many residents were grateful for those times and being able to see their neighbors, friends and the staff on a daily basis. Some residents took advantage of the opportunity that quarantine allowed them to develop the frequent habit of FaceTiming with children and grandchildren in other parts of the United States. 

Sally W. socialized with family and friends at every opportunity. She said, “Our most joyful anchor was the chance to FaceTime with our four boys and their families. Another tiny anchor was time that we were blessed to spend with my sister, sister-in-law and husband at Still Hopes. Another was to be able to walk in the park at Still Hopes. Another was to play bridge on a computer with our friends.”

Fun: Exploring hobbies and skills

Grabbing books from the Still Hopes library, developing a green thumb, sewing masks, knitting, writing letters, and other hobbies were some of the tiny anchors many residents wrote about. They rediscovered hobbies and developed new skills, sometimes inviting friends and family to join in. 

Carolyn G. wrote, “I have enjoyed needlepoint for many years. With all the activities at Still Hopes, I have not done needlepoint often. I have enjoyed getting back to it and am excited to complete a new canvas to display in my apartment.”

Faith

Perhaps the biggest of the “tiny anchors” is the faith among Still Hopes residents. Many wrote in saying they engaged in daily prayer. Sara D. even started reading the Bible cover-to-cover. Developing a stronger faith during difficult times is not uncommon. According to the Pew Research Center, the U.S. leads countries in strengthened faith during Covid. 

Cynthia M. put it best, “My tiny anchor is actually my Big Anchor. My faith in Jesus Christ and the fact that HE is in control of everything is what keeps me comforted during trials.” 

Margaret P. agrees and shared that her favorite Bible verses were among her tiny anchors.

“ ‘I can do all things with Christ who strengthens me!’ And ‘this is the day the Lord has made, we will rejoice and be glad in it!’ And a strong cup of coffee every morning!“

Click to learn more about the Still Hopes lifestyle to see how our residents spend their time, in and out of the pandemic.