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  2020 has been a tough year for us all. As we face a second lockdown, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the restrictions placed on us. Instead of focusing on what we can no longer do, let’s think about what is important to keep doing. Keep in touch There’s nothing wrong with a good old phone call or letter, although 2020 has been the year of the video call. Popular platforms to use are WhatsApp, Facebook Messenger, Zoom and Skype. Keep active Get up and move position at regular intervals. Go for a walk or spend time in the garden. Something as simple as giving your body a shake can warm up your muscles before having a stretch. Click here for a guide to simple exercises that can be done at home. Keep busy Continue the activities you already love, or try your hand at something new. Gardening, reading, cooking, painting or drawing are all stimulating tasks. Click here to learn the basics of knitting, or head to Google Arts and Culture to virtually visit some of the world’s greatest attractions! Keep on top of supplies Switch to online shopping if it makes shopping for essentials more accessible. Alternatively, ask a neighbour or loved one for assistance. If you are going out to shop, find out if your local supermarket is hosting priority hours that will better support your needs. Keep an eye on your health If the pandemic is causing you to feel anxious, tell someone. Telling your GP is the best thing you can do, and sharing worries with your friends, family or carer can help to ease the burden. Be honest about your physical health, too – your GP is there to help, so don’t worry about contacting them if you feel something is not right.   If following the government guidelines is difficult, you need to communicate this. Make sure other people are aware of your concerns. The government have designed ‘please give me space’ badges which you can download here, and exemption from face covering badges which can be found here.   *Abacus Care & Support has operations in London and Hertfordshire, having grown from a local family business that started in Letchworth. We are particularly keen to continue to grow our presence and impact in North Hertfordshire, including via our Stevenage, Hitchin and Letchworth care services. For information about Abacus Care & Supports’ domiciliary care (Home Care) services please call us on 07934498020/ 02071001680, or email us at enquiries@abacuscaresupport.co.uk.