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Your resource for skilled nursing and long-term care discharge coordination.

Ask about our specialty care including Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Speech Language Therapy, Your res Wound Care, Non-Invasive Ventilator, IV Medications, and long Wearable Defibrillator and Tracheostomy Care. 2

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GREATER OKLAHOMA CITY METRO AREA BETHANY The Grand at Bethany Skilled Nursing & Therapy 7000 NW 32nd Street 405-789-7242

EL RENO River Oaks Skilled Nursing & Therapy 1901 Parkview Drive 405-262-2833

BLANCHARD Senior Village Healthcare Center 1104 N Madison Ave 405-485-3315

NORMAN Grace Skilled Nursing & Therapy 4554 W Main Street 405-366-8800

CHICKASHA Cottonwood Creek Skilled Nursing & Therapy 2300 Iowa Avenue 405-224-6456

Holiday Heights Healthcare Center 301 E Dale 405-321-7932

DEL CITY Mid-Del Skilled Nursing & Therapy 400 S Scott Street 405-677-3349 EDMOND Bradford Village Healthcare Center 906 N Boulevard 405-341-0810

OKLAHOMA CITY Brookwood Skilled Nursing & Therapy 940 SW 84th Street 405-636-0626 Capitol Hill Skilled Nursing & Therapy 2400 SW 55th Street 405-681-5381

Kingwood Skilled Nursing & Therapy 1921 NE 21st Street 405-424-1449 St. Ann’s Skilled Nursing & Therapy 9400 St. Ann Drive 405-728-7888 Wildewood Skilled Nursing & Therapy 1913 NE 50th Street 405-427-5414 The Wilshire Skilled Nursing & Therapy 505 E Wilshire Blvd 405-478-0531 SHAWNEE The Regency Skilled Nursing & Therapy 1610 N Bryan Avenue 405-275-9004

32 Skilled Nursing &

The Timbers Skilled Nursing & Therapy 2520 S Rankin Street 405-341-1433

Fairmont Skilled Nursing & Therapy Memory Care 3233 NW 10th Street 405-943-8366

source for skilled nursing g-term care discharge ation.

Bridges Health is a Skilled Nursing & Therapy Facility Management Company. Each location is independently owned and operated

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STILLWATER Stillwater Creek Skilled Nursing & Therapy 1215 W 10th Street 405-372-1000 TECUMSEH Heritage Skilled Nursing & Therapy

EL RENO River Oaks

201 W Walnut Street 405-598-2167 CaregiverOklahoma.com

CONTENT

The Legendary LOVE 08 26 Medicare Jet Setters of Dewey and Inez

Mystery Adventure Dates

ASK Lisa 14 28 Breaking New Ground For Oklahoma Veterans

Romance Scams

Three “Fun” Days 16 32 Community Heartbeat Life is Calling. Pick Up.

in 2022

Enjoy a Good Book

For Free!

Caregivers Corner Finding Ways to Thrive in 2022

35 Container Gardening For Senior Health

37 Free Senior Day 78th Annual Shrine Circus

38 Discounts & Freebies

For Seniors

40 Aging Drivers And the Elephant in the Room

44 Valentine’s Day Details You Never Knew

46 Remember When Valentine’s Day

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ON THE COVER: Meet Dewey and Inez Muirhead. We are celebrating their life, love, and 79 years of marriage. A legacy that will be passed down to many generations. Their adventures and journey are an epic tale befitting the Silverscreen. Enjoy reading, The Legendary LOVE of Dewey and Inez, on page 8.

February/March 2022

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answers THE

Presented by Spanish Cove

A continuing series of information to empower your decisions & planning

Sessions to help you plan your best future and save money along the way! Attend any of our FREE, no-obligation sessions—seating is limited!

Unmask the Truth

Sessions moderated & presented by JILL HUFF, Spanish Cove Marketing Director

Understanding New Laws: Guardianship, Power of Attorney, & Advanced Directives

PAMELA KENNEDY

Feb. 17th 10am-11:30am OR Feb. 24th 10am-11:30am Attorney Pamela Kennedy, J.D. will discuss changes to these laws and how to avoid costly legal problems.

Jill has a background in real estate and years of experience helping people sell their homes. With 20+ years of senior living experience helping people understand retirement living options she knows the questions to ask and the facts that will empower attendees when considering a move.

How Estate Sales Work & Tips for Downsizing

Tues., Feb. 22 10am-11:30am Connie Klemme with Twisted K Estate Sales explains types of estate sales and answer questions like: Should I have an estate sale? Who can help me sell online? How do I get the most when selling? nd

CONNIE KLEMME

NO Luck Required! “Luck favors the prepared mind.” —Louis Pasteur

March 17th 10am-11:30am OR March 22nd 10am-11:30am Come ask questions about retirement community livng and get the real answers to questions like: • What are the different types of retirement communities? • What does “fee for service” mean? What is a “life care community”? • What are the costs? How can I save now and what should I put aside for my future? • What are financial & physical qualifications I must meet? • What differences are there between local communities? • How can I “try out” a community before committing? • How does Long Term Care Insurance work? • Is Spanish Cove expanding? What is the Spirit Club and what is a Charter Club Member? • What are community practices to guard against pandemic?

A Seller’s Market: Get the Most from the Sale of Your Home March 31st 10am-11:30am The housing market is booming! You could sell your home yourself, but is it the best choice for you ? Jill will present the pros and cons of three options: using a “for sale by owner” (FSBO) company, a true do-it-yourself FSBO, or using a Realtor. Come hear success stories from current residents who used each type of solution! Jill will answer questions including: • What’s involved from start to finish? • How do I get the most money from the sale? • What resources does Spanish Cove offer to help me sell my house? • What potential pitfalls should I watch out for?

Getting information and asking questions now could help you make the right choice for you—and save you money in the process!

SEATING IS LIMITED!! Call Jill to RSVP: 405-354-5906 or register online at: spanishcove.com/events

Please note COVID precautions will be followed.

Sessions will be held at The Cove Academy, 120 E. Vandament (future site of Phase II)

C l a i m y o u r F R E E d i g i t a l s u b s cSpanish r i p t i o nCove a t Retirement C a r e g i v e rVillage O k l a hiso am501(c)(3) a . c o m tax-exempt organization.5

Dear Readers, I hope this issue finds you well. With Spring fast approaching we are all looking forward to warmer weather and spending time having fun in the sun. I am excited to announce the addition of another BETTER WITH AGE Fun Day this year on March 24th. We are bringing you 3 Fun Days in 2022, mark your calendar!. We look forward to getting to know the readers and their families in Del City and the surrounding area and hearing how we can serve you better. Please join us. We can hardly wait to see everyone again at the Shoppes at NorthPark for the 3rd Annual, 2022 BETTER WITH AGE Health & Safety Fun Days on May 12th and October 13th from 9am-1pm as we celebrate life, see old friends and make new ones, mingle with the vendors all while enjoying music, entertainment, door prizes, food and having some good old fashioned FUN together with plenty of easy access parking and seating areas if you need to take a break from all the excitement! It’s a party for you, your friends and family. You will never be asked to pay admission to attend any of the “Fun Days” Food and beverage are complementary. I know from visiting with you the readers over the phone and in person, the resounding message that everyone has been sharing is that you want to be around people again and the isolation we faced ultimately is what you have expressed took too much of a toll on your wellbeing. We need each other, we enjoy visiting, laughing, and communicating. We understand there is more that unites us than divides us in the real world. We need camaraderie, friendship and love.

P.O. Box 721673 Oklahoma City, OK 73172

EDITORIAL Editor-In-Chief LASHANYA NASH Art Director ANGELA BLAKE Writers DENISE HEATH ROBBIE LAMBERSON LASHANYA NASH JOHN SPIVEY LISA SYDNOR KATHY COCKS, RN ANGELA BLAKE SHELLEY STUTCHMAN Cover Photographer JESSIE NEWELL

In this issue, you will notice a lot of FREE and discounted ways to save. The rising cost of groceries and gas is on most of our minds. There are many assistance programs for Oklahoman seniors on a fixed income. First, call 211, the help is very friendly and knowledgeable. If you have questions you may reach out to Lisa or me and we will do our best to assist you and steer you in the right direction.

Community Outreach LISA SYDNOR 405-314-7840

As always we are going to laugh, cry, travel down memory lane and learn a few things as we read through the content within these pages. I ask you to pay special attention to the advertisers not because you need their services at this time but because without them this magazine you have grown to love and enjoy would not be possible. I am eternally grateful for each of these businesses’ loyalty and support. To the entire team that works to bring this publication to life. With your talent, character, kindness, and devotion to the community, we serve, I thank each of you.

Layout WISE MARKETING

As we go forward we are constantly looking for new ideas for stories about inspiring people and families. Our mission is to bring options and support to you and your family with content to help you achieve your best life, no matter your age, that highlights the value of your health and whole-body wellness through staying active and having a positive attitude. If you have story ideas, call and let me hear them.

l.sydnor@betterwithageok.com

ADVERTISING Publisher LASHANYA NASH 405.532.6057 l.nash@betterwithageok.com ACCOUNTING ANDREA O’HAIR

May God bless you and your family. May we all be a little more understanding with each other because we never really know what someone is going through. Laughter truly is the best medicine and kindness and a smile cost us nothing but their value can’t be measured. Sincerely,

LaShanya L. Nash

Digital Copy:

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The Legendary

LOVE

of Dewey and Inez By Lisa Sydnor

Dewey looked at all the heavy machinery and tools and then thought about the manual labor involved and said, “I’m a cook.” He had to learn to cook in a hurry. Talk about On the Job Training (OJT)! Apparently, that worked out okay, as he still likes to cook his breakfast every morning and he loves his bacon, eggs and waffles.

ewey Muirhead was a young man just minding his own business in 1941 when he went to a Church pie supper and he saw the most beautiful girl selling her pineapple cake. He bought it. One year later, they married. And, as they say, the rest is history.

In July 1942, Dewey shipped out to serve in the Army Air Corps. He recalls his bride crying as she ran beside the tracks calling his name as the troop train took him from Ft Smith Arkansas to fight in World War II. Muirhead said, “We knew we were going to Europe and into combat.” Dewey served as an (MP) in the Military Police Corps and loved his motorcycle. He served primarily in Germany

When I learned Inez’s father literally sold a cow to buy her a wedding dress, I envisioned a white lace gown. But back in 1942, farmers were struggling to keep a roof over their heads and food on the table. Inez got a wedding dress, but it was a sensible shirtwaist, multi-purpose blue and white dress. Definitely, not the “wedding gown” I envisioned. She was proud of that dress and told the story often, as she stood beside her husband, Dewey; he describes his bride of 79 years as the “sweetest, most beautiful woman I’ve ever known.” Dewey worked for the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) from 1939-to 1941. The CCC was one of the New Deal programs that built infrastructure projects in Oklahoma and across the entire country. The program was designed to relieve the economic hardship caused by the Great Depression in 1929. They asked if anyone could cook.

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and Finland and was part of the Battle of the Bulge. The soldiers were ferried from the ship to shore. Dewey was responsible to see that all got off the ferry, They were taking fire. It became so heavy that everyone was trying to find cover and get away from the ferry. One thing he remembers about this time is the intense cold, remarking he thought he would never be warm again. While in Germany, Dewey met Clark Gable who was a co-pilot on a B-17 Flying Fortress and according to Dewey, “soft-spoken, kind, and a very nice man.” Inez left Oklahoma and joined her sister in California where they roomed together. Her sister was a welder in a large shipyard. Inez sorted and distributed tools to assigned workstations. The sisters worked together in the shipyard for more than two years.

Dewey remarked, “My sweet Inez wasn’t Rosie the Riveter and I wasn’t Clark Gable. But we both served our country.” During his service, he was on many ships, including aircraft carriers and the RMS Queen Elizabeth (QE),

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harbor or to dock. The soldiers shimmied down cargo and landing nets. When it was time to leave, the QE pulled out of New York harbor, and for five days the ship was winding through German U boats and four times torpedoes narrowly missed the lumbering ship. This was the only time he saw the Statue of Liberty.

which was the largest luxury liner ever built at that time. She first entered service in February 1940 as a troopship and it was not until October 1946 that she served in her intended role as an ocean liner. More than 12,000 personnel were aboard the QE with Dewey. Everything had to be done in shifts. They worked in shifts. They loaded onto and disembarked from, the QE by climbing cargo nets, dropping to the decks of ferries, in shifts. They ate in shifts; cleaned the ship in shifts; and, slept in shifts on bunks ten (10) racks high. When they returned to America they were to dock at the New York harbor. However, the QE was too large to sail into the

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Upon his return to the States, he was stationed in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, and began preparing to return to the front line in the Pacific. Then the atomic bombs were dropped on Japan, they surrendered to the Allies on August 15th, 1945. Dewey stated, “I didn’t want to go back. I also couldn’t imagine the destruction and devastation created by the bomb. I was happy it ended the war.” Dewey served three years and received several accommodations for his service. For the next 45+ years, Dewey was an oilfield worker in Oklahoma, Kansas and Texas. Inez was a stay home mom, raising their son, Tommy, and daughter, Marilyn. As the children became more independent, Inez worked in Ell’s Jewelry Store in Wewoka, later she worked at Big Yank Manufacturing until retirement in the mid-1980s. Being an oilfield wife is much like being a military wife. You are keeping hearth and home together; raising the children; paying the bills; seeing to repairs. Dewey retired from the oilfield in the mid-80s. He and Inez spent a lot of time together. They loved flea markets, church activities, going to

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classic car shows, participating in patriotic events, bargaining for that special item, and any reason to “celebrate.” Dewey and Inez made it work. Over the years, Dewey helped with caregiving for his mother, his sister, and sister-in-law. He was the go-to guy to see that financial obligations were met. Dewey and Inez celebrated their 79th anniversary on July 15, 2021. They were known across the state as one of the oldest living married couples in Oklahoma at the time of her death. It is amazing that 79 years later, they still made each other laugh, had private jokes, loved to snuggle and hold hands, and would “discuss/argue” the finer points of life with each other. Inez lost her battle with dementia and age on December 10, 2021, at the age of 98. Dewey misses his love. As he talked about Inez, he reminisced how he loved her smile, how she loved a compliment (especially after having her hair done), her laughter, and how she enjoyed riding in his classic cars, he teared up and said, “ I just want her to reappear and lay her head on my shoulder one last time. I wouldn’t even care when my arm went numb, because she would be there, smiling up at me.” But at 99 years young, he knows his memories will have to sustain him. Tear-filled, sad eyes looked at me and my heart broke as it is abundantly clear Dewey loved and misses his sweet Inez. On July 29, 2022, Dewey will celebrate his 100th birthday and his family and friends plan a huge blowout celebration.

buff! Or should I say, enthusiast? He has owned a Model “A” Roadster, a Shelby Mustang, other Mustangs and Camaros. He and Inez participated in the Classic Car Show Parades for many years. In October of 2020, the classic car club honored him with a plaque stating, “Dewey Muirhead 46 years of Sorghum Festival Service.” His daughter, Marilyn Moody, accepted for Dewey as he was recovering from medical issues. Until 2020, Dewey could be seen at every car show helping in any way possible, from parking cars to directing traffic. But his forte is visiting – yeah – I mean talking! He has never met a stranger; will talk to anyone who will pretend to listen, and is the life of the party. With a twinkle in his eyes and a big grin, Dewey Muirhead is still visiting and bringing joy to others. Dewey and Inez Muirhead shared a legendary love, a bond that can only be created. A love that never happens merely by accident. Their marriage was a true partnership, one where a husband and wife fully commit to loving selflessly and tirelessly. An ethereal connection that only death could separate. They cherished and respected one another’s unique differences that made them stronger through all the trials and tribulations and the laughter and joy of life and marriage. They shared an unconditional epic love for one another, that has become so rare. Although Inez is no longer here on earth-

Dewey and Inez are grandparents to four grandsons, Tim, Terry, Jason, and Marty. These young men blessed them with ten great-grandchildren. The greats called Inez, “Inee” and Dewey is “Dewdee.”

Now these three remain: Faith, Hope and Love. But the greatest of these is Love. 1 Corinthians 13:13

Dewey is known around Wewoka as a real wheeler-dealer. He loves a good barter or “horse-trading.” He is a classic car

In loving memory of Inez Muirhead June 11th, 1923 - December 10th, 2021

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ASK Lisa By Lisa Sydnor

The staffofof CAREGIVER Magazine is committed to The staff CAREGIVER Magazine is committed to connecting those in need with services and programs. If you have a question connecting those in need with services and programs. or you are looking for services, call 405-314-7840 or email

Ifl.sydnor@betterwithageok.com; you have a question, 405-314-7840 includecall your name and phone number in the message. We can help you find resources such as

or email l.sydnor@betterwithageok.com 211; NewView Oklahoma; Will Rogers Senior Center; aInclude home healthname care agency; a placenumber to live, fraud prevention, etc. your and phone in the message.

Romance Scams: Where has all the love gone? The FBI defines an elder as someone 60+ years of age. According to the 2020 Elder Fraud Report by the FBI/Internet Crime Complaint Center, the “love” has gone to the scammers. There was a 30% increase in romantic scams reported from 2019 to 2020. Preliminary estimates predict the increase of such cases from 2020 to 2021 will be from 43-48% with a monetary impact of over $1 BILLION. The report verifies and supports other findings over the past 15 years that isolation and loneliness are the most common complaints by seniors and shut-ins. The report speculates that being quarantined due to COVID has contributed to feelings of loneliness and depression leaving seniors more susceptible to scammers. Isolation and loneliness are pervasive across the nation in every age group and quarantines are a major contributor to these conditions. Oklahoma Insurance Department (OID) had a virtual fraud conference in May of 2021. One of the speakers, Amy Nofzigler, focused on romance scams. Nofzigler provided information on how scammers get your information, how to protect yourself, and specific things that are red flags. First, gift cards are not for making payments – they are for GIFTS only. If you are told to use gift cards to pay a bill, it’s a scam! No company or government agency accepts gift cards as payment.

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Romance scammers don’t always start on dating sites. Social media, including Facebook, Messenger, TikTok, & Instagram are especially popular, according to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). The FTC warns people to be wary of any online relationship in which the person wants to leave the dating site immediately and use personal messaging, the person is fast to claim love or the person asks for money without meeting face-to-face. There are good people in the world. Don’t let a bad one ruin your life. Never give money, prepaid cards, transfer funds or provide financial information to anyone you don’t know. “Knowing” someone is much more than digital friends who say they need your help. Grief increases our vulnerability. Scammers know your life, sometimes better than you do. Facebook, Instagram, and other social media are platforms for announcing the loss of a loved one. Scammers play the empathetic/sympathetic friend – the one who has traveled that road and ingratiate themselves to you. Seek counseling and support groups to assist you as you deal with grief. You must grieve! You must allow yourself time to heal. Do it wisely. Most support groups are free. Find the right support group and participate. Talk to a counselor. If you cannot afford one, contact your church, call 211, and ask everyone you know for a referral. This is not the time to huddle in your home alone. Isolation is not your friend. Some warning signs you are being targeted by a scammer: • They are under a military contract, or on an oil rig, and cannot make or take phone calls. • They type in proper Queens English. They don’t understand American jokes. • They don’t know landmarks where they say they live. • They call you “my dear” or “dear” – not a common endearment. • If they “are in love at first sight” – That is phony at best. They should be as apprehensive of you as you are of them. Please see this as a huge red flag! • If they want you to download a different app or website. • Send communication through Facebook Messenger. • Contact you using any social media platform. Be wary. • You get the same text message about their life from several people with different names and locations. • Refusal to meet face-to-face.

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• If you are asked to “friend” someone who has no friends and/ or you have no friends in common, don’t friend them. It is most likely a scam. • If it is a newly established account with only a few photos of them looking perfect in every Image. • If the person you are corresponding with encourages you to not tell your friends and family about your relationship, it’s a scam. This list goes on and on. Be honest with yourself. Does it feel wrong? Is anything out of sync? Is this a familiar scenario? Look for red flags. No matter what – don’t send any financial information or money. Keep all correspondence, copies of receipts and report suspects to OID, OK City Police, FBI, Office of Attorney General, or, Oklahoma County Sheriff’s Department. Report them. Help destroy this multi-billion dollar criminal operation. Don’t let them take your love and faith in humanity away from you. We need all the love we can get. Don’t fall for their financial trap. Remember, over-the-top compliments are not real. You are not the ”most beautiful;” the “most” anything. They are playing to your emotions and insecurities. As a young mother of 3, I worked two jobs for years. I was hired to tend bar at a small neighborhood club. The woman who hired me gave me the best advice. She said, “Remember, you are not the sexiest, most beautiful, best-looking person. You do not have the most beautiful smile, legs, hair – or the “Most” anything else. That is a customer looking for an edge: free drink – heavy shots – an advantage – an opportunity. Tomorrow they won’t recognize

you or remember your name. If you don’t listen to the lies and treat everyone the same, not only will you maintain your self-respect, but also, make more money.” That advice kept me on the right path. It is the same with romance scammers.

Don’t buy into the hogwash! To learn more about how fraud works and preventative measures we can take to protect ourselves, check out the HOODWINKED conference from Oklahoma Insurance Department at: Hoodwinked | Oklahoma Insurance Department. If you are concerned that you have been targeted by a scammer; if you are grieving the loss of a loved one; if you feel lonely or isolated, take action! Make the suggested phone calls; call a friend; call organizations or state agencies or AskLisa (405-314-7840) until you find help. Don’t isolate yourself. I know there are times the loneliness and isolation are overwhelming. There are as many contributing factors as there are people; death, divorce, relocation – whether yours or a loved one, illness, quarantine, and lack of mobility. All of these circumstances and many more, seem paralyzing. Take charge. Take back your life. Keep your money. Keep your dignity. Block their numbers. Report them. We care about your physical, emotional and financial well-being.

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Three Days of “FUN” in 2022 By Lisa Sydnor

It is time for the 3rd Annual BETTER WITH AGE Health & Safety Fun Days at the Shoppes at NorthPark Mall, 12100 North May Avenue; Thursday, May 12, 2022, from 9am-1pm AND again, Thursday, October 13, 2022. Be sure to save the dates and times in your phone, mark your calendars and get ready for fun!

We have added a THIRD FUN DAY!! Better With Age Fun Day – Del City City of Del City Community Center, 4505 SE 15th Thursday, March 24, 2022, from 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Adding the third Fun Day allows us to better serve Northeast & Southeast Oklahoma City, Midwest City and Del City and other communities. In 2021, the Better With Age Health & Safety Fun Days were incredible with over sixty vendors, performances by entertainers from the Oklahoma Senior Follies, dancing by the Not Just Your Country Line Dancers and musicians from Will Rogers Park Senior Center to entertain. There were amazing door prizes, food, fun and frolic! They were parties!! The Fun Days are designed to celebrate life, see old friends and make new ones while mingling with the vendors as they share a wealth of information. Come to all three events for good old-fashioned FUN with plenty of easy access parking and seating areas where you may rest and visit with friends. There is ample bus and van parking available. It’s a party for you, your friends and family. The event on May 12th, 2022 promises to be even bigger 16

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and better than last year! More than 90% of vendors are returning. You will find a variety of great entertainment, amazing door prizes and invaluable tips which enable us to be healthy and safe as we age. In 2021, over 350 people attended the event in June and over 500 in October. We are expecting even greater attendance this year! Public safety measures will remain in place. We extend a special thank you to our State and Federal agencies and community partners: Oklahoma Department of Veterans Affairs, Oklahoma Healthy Aging Initiative, Oklahoma Department of Rehabilitation Services, Oklahoma Library for the Blind and Physically Handicapped, VA Caregivers Program, Oklahoma Insurance Department, RSVP of Central Oklahoma, Sunbeam Family Services, NewView Oklahoma, CaptionCall, Area Wide Aging Services, Alzheimer’s Association, Pet Food Pantry of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma County Sheriff’s Department, Oklahoma City Police Department, Oklahoma City Fire Department, and Embark. There are many large and small businesses represented at the event to provide information on Estate Planning, Health Care Options, Home Health and Private Duty Care, Funeral Planning, Senior Living Communities, Insurance, Financial Planning, Real Estate, Senior Focused Primary care and Urgent Care, Physical Therapy, Diagnostic and Imaging, Mobile Physician Services. If you have any questions or would like to receive vendor registration information, contact Lisa Sydnor at 405-3147840 or email her at l.sydnor@betterwithageok.com. This will be a great day of information sharing and camaraderie. Come join in the fun!

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Save all 3 Dates 2022 BETTER WITH AGE Health And Safety

Thursday, March 24th, 2022 9:00 AM - 1:00 PM

City of Del City

Community Center Vendor Registration NOW OPEN for all 3 Fun Days! HURRY! The space fills fast. To reserve vendor space Contact:

Lisa at 405-314-7840 L.Sydnor@betterwithageok.com or LaShanya at 405-532-6057 L.Nash@betterwithageok.com

3rd Annual

Thursday, May 12th 9am-1pm

Hosted By

Door Prizes Entertainment Food Live Music

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Valir Hospice allowed us to spend our days living life to the fullest.

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ITS NOT ABOUT DYING... ITS ABOUT LIVING!

HOSPICE

405-609-3636

What is hospice? Hospice is not a place but a concept. Its goal is to neither hasten nor postpone death, but to offer compassionate care to those patients for whom curative measures are no longer an option. Hospice provides terminally ill patients and their families with customized medical care and pain management, as well as emotional and spiritual support.

Providing The Best Care Until The End

Most hospice patients receive care in their own homes or in the homes of loved ones. Hospice care may also be delivered to patients in nursing homes, hospitals, assisted-living facilities and independent-living facilities. Typically, one family member serves as the primary caregiver and, when appropriate, helps make decisions for the patient. Valir provides care and support for both the patient and family.

(405) 609-3636

FOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT VALIR.COM

Personal and Warm End-of-Life Care. Valir Hospice Care is a family of dedicated professionals who care for terminally ill patients, providing them and their families with physical, psychological, social and spiritual support. Using individualized pain- and symptom-management plans, our hospice team works to enhance the patient’s quality of life. Commensurate with our belief that life should be lived with dignity and respect, Valir’s hospice professionals provide patients with the compassion and care they deserve.

When is the right time to ask about hospice? Now is the right time to learn more about hospice care. Although end-oflife care may be difficult to discuss, knowing our loved ones’ wishes now can greatly ease their transition into this stage of life.

The staff at Valir Hospice Care is happy to provide patients and their families with the information necessary to make educated decisions. Please call us at:

(405) 609-3636 FOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT VALIR.COM Claim your FREE digital subscription at CaregiverOklahoma.com

BRING BACK THE ENJOYMENT OF A GOOD BOOK By Brian King, Oklahoma Library for the Blind and Physically Handicapped

How long has it been since someone you care for enjoyed a novel or learned something new from an interesting work of nonfiction? If it has been a while, is that because he or she struggles to see the words clearly? Or maybe they have a physical condition that makes it uncomfortable or impossible to hold a traditional book for a significant length of time or turn the pages. Caregivers across Oklahoma are taking advantage of a different way to enjoy reading again with audiobooks provided by the Oklahoma Library for the Blind and Physically Handicapped (OLBPH). Before you move on to another article, thinking this is a sales pitch, let me assure you it’s not. OLBPH services are completely FREE for all users with no strings attached. Also, please don’t jump to conclusions based on our name. The Oklahoma Library for the Blind and Physically Handicapped serves people with a wide variety of vision impairments and disabilities – from mild to severe and everything in between. A large percentage of our patrons are seniors who don’t consider themselves “blind” but can no longer use standard print. Many are battling eye problems such as macular degeneration, glaucoma, and cataracts, or physical conditions such as Parkinson’s and arthritis. Most of our patrons get their audiobooks and magazines through the mail (with no postage due, either coming or going) in the form of digital cartridges. The cartridges are heard through a player that is provided by OLBPH and loaned at no cost to users. Patrons who use a computer, tablet, or smartphone have the option of downloading books and magazines and listening through their personal devices. 20

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If you think the number of books to choose from must be fairly small, think again! We have more than 100,000 titles available! The collection includes all kinds of fiction and nonfiction, such as westerns, religion and inspiration, histories, mysteries, biographies, bestsellers, science fiction, and many more. It’s easy to get started… you can get an application right now through our website, www.olbph.org. Click on the Apply tab on the black bar near the top of the page. Then scroll down a little to the “Download Applications” section and open the Individual application. Or you can call 1-800-523-0288 and we will send you a paper form in the mail. When the application is complete, just send it to us in the way that’s most convenient for you: fax, scan & email, or traditional mail. All of our contact information is at the top of the application’s first page. We look forward to helping the people you care for enjoy books and magazines again! Editor’s note: If you or a loved one can benefit from this lifeenriching program, please apply! I would like to extend a personal thank you to Brian King with the Oklahoma Library for the Blind and Physically Handicapped for this editorial content and his unwavering devotion and compassion to those he serves. The Oklahoma Library for the Blind and Physically Handicapped was recently honored as Regional Library of the Year by the National Library Service for the Blind and Print Disabled, a division of the Library of Congress. At the state level, OLBPH is part of the Services for the Blind and Visually Impaired division of the Oklahoma Department of Rehabilitation Services. This is an extraordinary accomplishment and exemplifies the level of excellence this department sets as its standard. Congratulations!

Issue 19

CaregiverOklahoma.com

Longterm Care Options in Oklahoma

ASSISTED LIVING

— Brought to you by the Oklahoma Assisted Living Association —

ASSISTED LIVING A home or establishment that may provide assistance with personal care, medications, ambulation, nursing supervision and intermittent or unscheduled nursing care. They cannot provide 24-hour skilled nursing care. Licensed by Oklahoma State Department of Health Mainly Private Pay, LTC Insurance may cover , VA Aid & Attendance, & Tribal Benefits Medicaid Option through DHS (Advantage Waiver)

NURSING HOME A nursing facility that provides 24-hour skilled nursing care and related services for residents who require medical or nursing care. Nursing Home Care Act - October 1, 1980. Licensed by Oklahoma State Department of Health. Nursing homes provide the highest level of care. Options for Medicare/Medicaid

ADULT DAY CARE Provides health, recreational, social and supportive services to impaired adults for more than four hours per day. Participants do not stay in the center overnight. Adult Day Care Act - November 1, 1989 Licensed by Oklahoma State Department of Health VA allows respite benefits Medicaid Option through DHS (Advantage Waiver)

VETERANS CARE Created in 2013, this program is for residents who are veterans living in the state veteran’s centers. They are licensed as a nursing facility and can provide 24-hour skilled nursing care and related services for residents who require medical or nursing care . Falls under Nursing Home Care Act - May 29, 2013. Licensed by Oklahoma State Department of Health

CONTINUUM OF CARE Combines the services of a nursing facility with an assisted living center or an adult day care center. It is licensed under the Continuum of Care and Assisted Living Act and must also meet requirements applicable to nursing facilities, assisted living centers and adult day care centers. Licensed by Oklahoma State Department of Health Currently inOklahoma, all Continuum of Care’s only have assisted livings. Medicaid Option through DHS (Advantage Waiver) for Assisted Living and Adult Day Care.

RESIDENTIAL CARE HOMES Provide residential accommodations, food service, and supportive assistance. May also provide assistance with meals, dressing, bathing, other personal needs, and medication administration. Cannot provide medical care such as skilled nursing. Residential Care Act - November 1, 1984 Licensed by Oklahoma State Department of Health A typical residential care resident is younger than other long term care options and only requires assistant with medication administration. NO Options for Medicare/Medicaid

INDEPENDENT SENIOR LIVING/HOME CARE Apartments, cottages, and single-family homes for seniors 55 & over who do not require assistance with daily activities or 24/7 skilled nursing but may benefit from convenient services, senior-friendly surround-ings, and increased social opportunities. NOT Licensed by Oklahoma State Department of Health. No oversight since they are not licensed. May have “High Acuity” that is receiving Home Health and or Hospice services.

For a list of OKALA Members Visit www.OKALA.org Become a member or for more information call 405-235-5000

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CAREGIVERS O R N E R By Kathy Cocks, RN Finding ways to Thrive in 2022 Spring and warm weather are coming. Pretty soon the trees will blossom, and children will be climbing the monkey bars. Yet if you are a caregiver days and seasons run together. The day can seem never-ending as you care for another person, try to take care of yourself, and make sure the house is livable. It is easy to get caught up in survival mode. Take a deep breath and re-evaluate how you can receive help which will also increase your loved one getting some socialization. Find chores your care recipient can participate in. Lastly, as the weather warms get outside and enjoy nature. My dad is 90 years and up to the time before the pandemic, he was playing tennis and helping lay tile for habitat homes. He stayed home until the COVID shots became available but now his knees are weak and he finds walking difficult. We talked to him about moving to independent living but most older people want to stay in their own home. My dad especially wants to stay home with his two cats and his “man cave” he built after my mom passed. I could not get him to hire help. He lives far away from me. I was concerned about his lack of activity, socialization and nutrition. Then I remembered his local senior center. Dad would not go for bingo. He had 22

CAREGIVER Magazine

quit cooking and was getting a hamburger every day. I mailed him his senior center’s menu and now I know during the week he will get a hot nutritious meal and interact with other people. Socialization is so important to try to work into the day of our loved ones. Call your local Area-wide Aging Agency and they can tell you where the closest senior center is. If you or your loved one are home-bound, they will bring the meals to you, and at least it is someone to say hi to. I interviewed Fred on my podcast, Knowledge for Caregivers and he said they were trying to manage all the challenges of caregiving on their own. But as a small family just couldn’t keep up, they knew they needed help. They reached out to their friends and asked them to come over and sit and talk with their Dad. This gives their Dad that extra socialization and gives his wife time to go into the kitchen to prepare healthy meals or a break to relax and read a book. Friends many times want to help but they do not know how. My mother-in-law goes to a weekly Bible Study on Wednesday with some women from the church. She asks one of the male spouses to come and sit with her husband. She enjoys her day out and my father-in-law has a chance to socialize. Resources are available to have sitters come into the home so a family caregiver can run errands or work in the garden. You can hire an agency for professional caregivers, apply for state assistance or look for community partners to provide these sitters. The federal government provides grants to many nonprofits to assist caregivers, do not be afraid to take advantage of them. Adult day centers are located in many neighborhoods where individuals can go to give family members some respite time. Besides encouraging socialization in our care recipients, we need to encourage them to do activities with us. Recently I interviewed an occupational therapist and a physical therapist for my podcast. They both said similar things. Have the care recipient assist with cooking, folding laundry or other household chores. Put on some of their favorite music and give them simple chores they can accomplish. Being able to be helpful will build their self-esteem and increase the bond between family members. The other benefit of doing chores together is it helps to maintain or build fine motor skills and strengthens the larger muscles slowing

Issue 19

CaregiverOklahoma.com

down mental and physical decline. As my physical therapist podcaster said, “Life is exercise.” What she means is that loading the dishwasher or pushing the Swiffer all help to maintain our muscles but does not feel boring like leg lifts. Therefore, find ways to include your loved one in daily tasks around the home. Lastly, get outside on warm days. Even if your care recipient can only sit on the porch and watch you weed the garden. The sunshine will improve their mood. Many times, they can help outside by watering the garden, planting seeds, or repotting a house plant. Vitamin-D is absorbed through the skin and can be a great benefit. Research has shown that individuals with normal Vitamin-D levels tended to get less sick with COVID-19. Buy a rocking chair and let them rock on the porch enjoying the sunshine and exercising their leg muscles without even knowing it. It is important to stop the hectic pace that engulfs caregivers and make sure we re-evaluate the mental and physical health of both the caregiver and the care recipient. We need to find ways for both to thrive in 2022.

Kathy Cocks, RN www.kathysconsulting.com

405-202-0708 info@kathysconsulting.com

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Live Well with ArchWell

We’re helping Oklahoma City seniors get well, stay well and live well. Welcome to a higher level of healthcare for seniors: ArchWell HealthTM. We’re here to improve all aspects of our members’ lives through a special kind of healthcare that focuses on wellness, community and strong member/doctor relationships.

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Issue 19

CaregiverOklahoma.com

We’re different from your typical doctor’s office. Here’s how: +

We specialize in care for seniors.

Doctors who actually spend time with you.

Available same-day appointments, so you can see your doctor when you need to.

Your healthcare team works with you to help keep you healthy, not just treat you when you’re ill.

A vibrant healthcare community focused on you and your wellness. Our centers are welcoming communities where you can enjoy fitness classes, board and card games and many other activities. It’s a great way to connect with other seniors. Need a ride? We’ll gladly provide transportation to and from the center.

To learn more, or to schedule a tour, call 405.251.8885 or visit ArchWellHealth.com.

Locations Mid-Del 6951 Southeast 15th St Midwest City, OK 73110 live well with archwell

Windsor 4629 NW 23rd St Oklahoma City, OK 73127 Southwestern 7313 S Western Ave Oklahoma City, OK 73139

primary care doctors for seniors

405.251.8885 • ArchWellHealth.com • Claim your FREE digital subscription at CaregiverOklahoma.com

Romance is not just for the young. Senior citizens also enjoy and desire romantic adventures. Why not plan a mystery adventure date this month? Medicare Jet-Setter creator Neil Johnson and I have some groovy guidelines and suggestions for creating your mystery date. Mystery dates are about putting some spark into your life. Here are the guidelines to creating a mystery adventure date:

MEDICARE 1. Plan where to go and what will happen. Keep it a secret. 2. Invite a spouse, friend, child, sibling, or someone special.

Mystery Adventure Dates for Seniors Shelley Malicote-Stutchman

3. Only tell them the day, the time, and what to wear. The rest is a mystery. 4. This adventure is your treat to them, so they pay nothing. 5. Use your imagination regarding how to get to your destination; it can be anything from driving, walking, taking a bike, or hiring a limo. 6. Do not let the cat out of the bag until you arrive at the destination. Sit back a moment and enjoy the look of delight and surprise or shock on their face.

Questions about Medicare? We provide free, unbiased counseling and assistance for Medicare beneficiaries, their representatives or people who will soon be eligible for Medicare. We can help you compare plans and save money. Call us for FREE help. • Counseling about Medicare options • Report potential Medicare fraud • Apply for assistance with prescription drug costs

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1.800.763.2828 | MAP.OID.OK.GOV

A DIVISION OF THE OKLAHOMA INSURANCE DEPARTMENT

This project was supported, in part by grant number 90SAPG0086-01-01, from the U.S. Administration for Community Living, Department of Health and Human Services, Washington, D.C. 20201.

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CaregiverOklahoma.com

One of the ways to figure out where to go is to listen to memories the person you want to take mentions in conversations. Neil had mentioned how he used to love the ice cream bars he would buy at Dairy Queen when he was young. Ah-ha, I thought, perfect mystery date. I called another couple and asked them to be there waiting for us. I was setting up an old-fashioned double date as our generation did back in the day. I asked him to meet me at my office. Then without him knowing what was going on, we turned into the Dairy Queen that was just two blocks from where I work. When we went inside, a big smile crossed his face. When he saw our friends waiting for us, he laughed out loud. Ice cream and giggles made up this very simple, inexpensive, and loads of fun mystery date. Another suggestion that many people don’t know about is right in Hennessey, Oklahoma. Surprise your date or whomever you choose with a Hennessey Adventure to Vernost Wine Co. The winery has a massive fireplace to sit in front of and sip your wine or a rooftop patio for warmer weather. The building is full of history. The stories hang on the walls and are in the books scattered around. Vernost Wine Co. is in the oldest standing building in Hennessey. The Hardin family of Hennessey converted the building into the premier wine bar it is today. Since this is a mystery adventure, Vernost is the perfect destination. Vernost Wine Co. has been the site of two paranormal investigations. Their motto is Loyal to Those that Matter. They have a fantastic array of different wines to taste. Their wines also boast unusual names such as American Gospel, Ghost of War, Foot to Throat, Big Sexy, Candied Sin, Throwdown, and Prophet of Doom, to name a few. When you sit at the bar, you can ask the bartender how each wine got its unique name. The bar is made of natural wood and is the perfect width,

so you don’t worry about your wine glass falling to the floor if you accidentally knock it over. Their wines have won various awards. If you don’t like wine, you can always get an icy cold beer or soft drink. Vernost Wine Co. is located at 110 N Main St, Hennessey, OK 73742. Another fun mystery date is to head to Jimmy’s Egg for brunch. When you get there, you and your honey, or your friend, can grab a free copy of Caregiver Magazine from the rack. As you thumb through it together, you can read the stories, look at the ads, sip your coffee, and have something new to discuss. Most romantic movies feature young people. In our senior years, let’s show the younger generation that retirement is a time for the rebirth of romance or adventures with our friends. Go ahead and add some suspense and excitement to your life by planning your mystery date adventure. For more ideas from Medicare Jet-Setters, go to Facebook at Medicare Jet-Setters | Facebook or the website at medicarejetsetters.com Stay groovy and get up and go!

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are cared for, is primary. The Oklahoma Department of Veterans Affairs is about the veteran and their family and honoring their service to our country.” Clearly, Joel Kintsel is a man who gets it and he cares. As the Oklahoma Department of Veterans Affairs Executive Director, Joel Kintsel is responsible for providing leadership, strategic planning, organizing and directing all agency programs and daily operations, advising and updating the Oklahoma Veterans Commission on agency activities, executing special projects, and providing oversight of the seven Oklahoma Veterans Centers. He previously served as ODVA Deputy Director from 2018 to 2019 before being appointed Executive Director by Governor Stitt. Prior to joining ODVA, he served as Parliamentarian for the Oklahoma House of Representatives for 14 years and is the author of House Rules and Procedural Manual, a book detailing legislative parliamentary procedure in the Oklahoma House of Representatives.

Joel Kintsel

Breaking New Ground for Oklahoma Veterans By Lisa Sydnor When Joel Kintsel became the Executive Director of the Oklahoma Department of Veterans Affairs (ODVA), he had very clear goals he wanted to accomplish. One was effective customer service; service that put the veterans and their needs first. Second, it seems almost the same as number one, embracing the veteran and the veteran’s family, as one. As Kintsel explained, “Caring for a veteran isn’t about one person. Most veterans serve for love of country and family. You cannot separate the two – it is a package deal. Ensuring that every veteran receives the best care, has access to all benefit information, and assurance that their families 28

CAREGIVER Magazine

A veteran of the Oklahoma Army National Guard from 2000 to 2009, Kintsel was recently appointed to Lt. Colonel for the Oklahoma Air National Guard while concurrently serving as the Deputy State Judge Advocate for Air, Joint Forces Headquarters. During his service with the Oklahoma National Guard, he served as Deputy Command Judge Advocate for the Joint Area Support Group – Central, Baghdad, Iraq, in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom in 2008. He was also one of the thousands of Oklahoma guard members deployed to New Orleans, Louisiana in the wake of Hurricane Katrina. Starting in 2020 after the declaration of the pandemic, Kintsel was called up to serve as the Oklahoma National Guard’s supporting Judge Advocate for the statewide COVID-19 task force. Joel Kintsel holds a Bachelor of Arts in Journalism from Oklahoma State University and a Juris Doctor from the University of Oklahoma. He is also a member of the Oklahoma Bar Association. Kintsel acknowledges, “More and more veterans are women. For many years, there were few benefits for women and many of the benefits were obscure and no one seemed to know the qualifications.” Now, empowering all veterans to know about all benefits and having clear guidelines for applying is making life much

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CaregiverOklahoma.com

O K L A H O M A ST A T E V E T E R A NS H O M E

easier for everyone. In the past, it seemed difficult to qualify for benefits; simply because the process of applying could be a nightmare. First, you had to find out what benefits you qualified for and how to access the programs. Many changes have, and continue to be taking place in ODVA. Across the state, all ODVA staff are charged with providing exemplary customer service while fulfilling their primary responsibilities of helping and guiding veterans through the process of identifying and accessing benefits. HC

on outings, utilize unique skill sets, and participate in programs designed to promote camaraderie, learning and just plain fun. There are places for families to congregate; have parties, and grill and picnic on the grounds with their veterans. Family participation is encouraged and welcome.

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There are seven ODVA veterans’ homes with 1,423 beds in Oklahoma: Ardmore, Claremore, Clinton, Lawton, Norman, Sulphur, and Talihina. With the opening of the new facility in Sallisaw in mid-2022, Talihina will close. Renovations are planned for several of the veterans’ homes in 2022-2025. These, and other long-range plans, are part of the assurance that ODVA will continue to put our veterans first. As an agency, they intend to keep moving forward. Kintsel stated, “There is no time to pat ourselves on the back and say, good job! That is when you lose momentum, sliding backward. And, “backward” is not a direction this agency and staff intend to go.” 15

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As the first to hold the newly created position of Outreach Coordinator for Veterans Administration State Homes Program, Robert (Rob) Arrington is experiencing a significant change in duties. He is responsible for reaching out to Veterans, their families, and health care providers to teach them about Oklahoma’s State Veterans Home program and LEGEND help them take advantage of all the VA benefits they have earned.

21 HC

Did you know that a veteran with 70% disability may live in a VA Living Center free of charge? That means the veteran has long-term care and rehabilitation and pays nothing. There is no “buy-in” or “spend down.” All of their income and savings are available to be used to care for the family. These living centers have or are on schedule for updating to state-of-the-art equipment that rivals any hospital or long-term care community. The centers have excellent medical professionals and well-trained and caring support staff. Veterans receive physical, emotional and psychological counseling and care. They have the opportunity to go

ENTRY ARTS AND CRAFTS/RECREATION OFFICES RECEPTION MAIN STREET CENTRAL DINING REHAB SPORTS BAR CONFERENCE ROOM BUSINESS CENTER TRASH COMPACTOR CENTRAL KITCHEN LAUNDRY CENTRAL SUPPLY SHIPPING/RECEIVING MAINT. SHOP BACK OF HOUSE CORRIDOR CHAPEL TOILETS STAFF LOUNGE PATIO/COURTYARD LIVING/DINING/DEN CAREGIVER WORKSTATION RESIDENT ROOM HOUSEHOLD KITCHEN RESIDENT GARDEN BATHING SUITE SITTING THEATRE CENTRAL HOUSEKEEPING PHYSICAL THERAPY GENERATOR YARD

BE A HERO

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est.

*NO CAPE NEEDED Volunteer your time!

Kevin Y., Volunteer Driver A proud partner of:

Become a volunteer driver with the RSVP of Central Oklahoma Provide-A-Ride Team! ► Take older adults to medical appointments ► Volunteer 2 rides per month (6 hours total) ► Mileage compensation ► Discover how much joy it brings to give back!

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the story of the new 175-bed living center opening mid-year in Sallisaw and the renovations scheduled to start soon modernizing three other centers is great news for our State and our veterans. Arrington stated, “ I don’t want to lose the personal contact with the veterans and their families. They are the reason we are here. Taking our story to them is a labor of love. I feel no other living centers in the state can rival the state-of-the-art community nearing completion in Sallisaw.” ADDITIONAL “LITTLE KNOWN” FACTS: Oklahoma City’s love and support for military service members and veterans was recently recognized by the Navy Federal Credit Union (NFCU). Oklahoma City, OK, ranked #11 on NFCU’s annual 2020 Best Cities After Service. Approximately 250,000 military members transition out of the service and into civilian life each year, according to the Navy Federal Credit Union. ODVA is proud to serve veterans transitioning from active duty into civilian life with resources and services in Oklahoma City and throughout the state. Oklahoma City is home to a significant number of veteran-owned businesses.

Robert (Rob) Arrington

Arrington started with ODVA at the Sulphur Veterans Home in 2008 and most recently served as administrator of the Norman Veterans Home for over three years. He supervised 400 employees who cared for 300 veterans and associated families; now he travels across Oklahoma sharing information on available benefits, including the seven living centers. Arrington stated, “My role is to promote not just the centers but also the “new” ODVA that is continuing to modernize and evolve as an agency. Sharing good news, identifying veteran needs and benefits, and promoting great programs are part of why I love my job! “ Arrington served in the Oklahoma Army National Guard from 1985 to 2007 as an air traffic controller. He had several overseas deployments including Bosnia and Iraq. Arrington has a Bachelor of Business Administration from the University of Central Oklahoma and a Master of Public Administration from the University of Oklahoma. While Rob says his job is fun and uplifting; it is challenging as well. Traveling across the State, sharing 30

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Oklahoma is number one of the 50 states in per capita federal veterans benefit dollars. These are not budgeted dollars coming through the Oklahoma government meaning it doesn’t show up as income so is often overlooked as an enormous benefit to the veterans of Oklahoma. In Oklahoma, nearly 10% of our population is either a veteran or actively serving in the military; in Oklahoma, 30% of Native American citizens are also veterans. Kintsel emphasized, “It is the goal of the Oklahoma Department of Veterans Affairs that all programs administered by this agency to Oklahoma veterans will always be first-rate in the nation for: Services, Benefits, Care, Facilities, Employees, and Relationships.” ODVA VISION Empowering veterans and service members in their pursuit of quality of life and quality of opportunity in the great State of Oklahoma. ODVA MISSION Our mission is to support, honor, and care for

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CaregiverOklahoma.com

To learn more about what the State of Oklahoma has to offer veterans, including assistance with benefit claims and healthcare, visit www.oklahoma.gov/veterans.

• Advocates for veteran interests in state and federal law and regulations • Cultivates community support for veterans and 32 veterans’ programs

• Assists eligible veterans and dependents with State and Federal claims and benefits

Let Our Family Take Care of Yours 28

www.integrityseniorcareokc.com

• Embraces training and connection opportunities in areas of mental health and suicide prevention 15 16

• Promotes enterprise, entrepreneurship, and 17 employment opportunities for veterans 26

• Guarantees high quality of care and a home-like 12 19 30 10 environment in State Veterans Homes 17

• Supports military personnel to civilian 19 in transitioning 9 18 13 life as Oklahoma veterans 5 7

19 •Maximizes GI Bill® accessibility and use 29in Oklahoma 2 Partners with public and private entities to support the 1 9 3 broadest access for veterans to resources 31

"Integrity Senior Care treated Mom with the utmost 20 respect! The staff is very caring, efficient and treated her 19 like family and gave me27peace of mind! I couldn't thank the 25 23 23 caregiver's enough for all their hard work and generosity. I 22 would recommend Integrity Senior Care to anyone. " Judith Crain 19

11212 N. May Ave, Suite 207 OKC, OK 73013

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(405)810-5128 24

• Helps Oklahoma veterans flourish in all areas of human endeavor HC

Bathing - Dressing Meal Preparation Respite Care Home Health Care 21 Alzheimer's Care Errands Hospice Light Housekeeping 22 Medication Reminders

• Facilitates personal and financial independence for veterans in all phases of life

Oklahoma veterans. We create and sustain programs that:

C MMUNITY HEARTBEAT By Lisa Sydnor

LIFE IS CALLING Does it feel like you spend half of your time asking people to repeat themselves, specifically on the phone? I commiserate with you; sometimes it feels it isn’t worth it and I find myself withdrawing. You want to stop talking to people. But, those who know me know I love to meet new people, talk with friends, and be social! So, I won’t stop talking or trying to communicate any time soon! Check out the CaptionCall phone to read and hear phone conversations. It works just like a regular landline phone with the advantage of real-time captions. Telephone captioning is an essential ADA service available at no cost. If you have trouble hearing on the phone, contact CaptionCall or your audiologist to find out if you qualify for this no-cost CaptionCall service. Step 1: Are You Eligible? This no-cost service is for people with hearing loss who need captions to effectively use the phone. Request our service to see if you qualify or talk to your audiologist. Step 2: Request Service If you have hearing loss and need captions, fill out our simple online form. They’ll contact you to arrange a time for installation. Step 3: Installation and Training Their professional team will confirm your qualifications, install the phone and authorize the app, and teach you how to use CaptionCall. There is no cost to you. Step 4: Connect with Life Enjoy captioned phone calls as you talk! By reading and hearing a conversation, you can feel more connected to your world. You’ll use a CaptionCall phone just like any other phone. But the captioning service makes all the difference! When you dial or answer a call, the CaptionCall telephone directs your conversation to a specially trained agent. Using cuttingedge technology, the captioning agent transcribes your 32

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conversation into text. The other speaker’s words appear on your CaptionCall screen. You can even save a captioned conversation to review later! CaptionCall really helps you connect! This telephone captioning service helps people with hearing loss understand phone calls better. It can and does make a difference. This service is federally funded so the phone and captioning services are no-cost to eligible users.

7 Ways You Can Help Someone with Hearing Loss 1. Annual Hearing Tests are Recommended for Everyone: Most people schedule yearly checkups with their doctors, and a trip to a hearing healthcare professional should be part of that routine. Even if someone doesn’t have a noticeable degree of hearing loss, it will at least help establish a baseline for where their (and your) hearing is right now. If the hearing loss is minor, then it can be tracked and hopefully helped before it gets too bad. If the hearing loss is at an advanced stage, then the hearing healthcare professional will be there to provide options. 2. There are many Risks of Putting Off Getting Your Hearing Checked: There are many reasons why it can be detrimental to put off a checkup, including depression, isolation, early-onset dementia, brain atrophy, and a greater risk of falling. When people with hearing loss find that they are missing out on conversations, they tend to withdraw

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from social situations and the isolation could lead to depression and potentially other ailments as well. Don’t let that happen to your loved ones. 3. Prepare for Objections: When you have that difficult conversation with someone about their hearing loss, you will hear objections like, “people just mumble; I’m fine”, “my hearing isn’t bad enough that I need help”, “I just like to have the TV loud”, and a myriad of other objections. Know that there is a perceived social stigma that comes with hearing loss and that is likely the root cause for any pushback. 4. Let Them Know They are Not Alone: According to the Hearing Loss Association of America (HLAA), approximately 48 million Americans live with some degree of hearing loss. There are also many celebrities who have spoken out about their own hearing loss, so sharing their stories can help too. 5. Go with Them to Have Your Hearing Tested: Getting a hearing test is nothing to be scared about but doing it together can help ease their fears. Hearing tests are usually conducted in a sound-treated room and will consist of pure-tone audiometry, speech audiometry, speech in noise and words in noise test, tympanometry, and if need be, testing for hidden hearing loss. 6. Don’t Be the Only One Who Talks to Them: If you are talking to your parents, grandparents, or a friend, get others involved in the conversation. People are more likely to listen if they know many people care about them and their well-being. 7. Contact Your Local Hearing Healthcare Professional for Help: If your loved one is reluctant to get their hearing checked, you can contact a professional for further advice on things you can do to help them get treatment. On average, it takes someone seven years to get their hearing loss taken care of, so don’t be discouraged if it takes you a couple of tries. Anything you can do to help your loved ones lower that average and is going to benefit them. If someone you know has hearing loss that necessitates the use of a captioned telephone service, CaptionCall is here to help. This is a no-cost captioned telephone service. For more information, go to the website at https:// captioncall.com; or, to set an appointment to sign up for the service, call Lezley Bell, the representative in Oklahoma at 580-819-1630.

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Container Gardening For Senior Health

Gardening is great exercise, has been proven to relieve stress and improve healing, and rewards us with beautiful flowers, herbs, and vegetables. Seniors with limited space or a mobility challenge can plant flowers, herbs, and vegetables in containers and raised beds. It’s a great way to connect with nature when the weather in your area permits. While gardening can be difficult, sweaty work, there are ways for seniors to reap all of the benefits – physical, mental, and emotional – without all of the heavy lifting. Container gardens are an easily accessible choice and can be kept on the balcony or terrace of a senior living apartment. You might be surprised by how much you can grow in container gardens – everything from azaleas to zucchini!

Containers, window boxes, and raised flower beds all lend themselves to senior-friendly gardens. You can make it even easier by choosing resin or plastic blend pots that are lighter to move than those made from concrete or terra-cotta. A raised or elevated bed is another senior-friendly gardening solution, especially for those who struggle with balance or mobility. These kits can be purchased at a local lumber store or at online gardening sites.

Here are a few tips about growing herbs, vegetables, or flowers in containers: Planning a container garden can be a fun activity for families to do together, whether it’s researching which plants will do best in a particular spot, gathering supplies, or helping with the set up of containers, soil, and tables.

Engage The Senses

While younger and middle-aged adults tend to prefer gardens that are peaceful and still, older adults tend to look to gardens for stimulation. Choose plants that engage all the senses. Consider the bright colors and fragrance of flowers, herbs or vegetables that delight the palate, and a small fountain for soothing water sounds. (Water also attracts songbirds, but be sure that the water is continuously moving to avoid attracting mosquitoes, too.)

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Make It Accessible

Keep containers at the correct height for your loved one. Containers and tools should be kept at an easily accessible height that can be reached while seated in a regular chair or wheelchair.

Choose The Right Tools

Some garden tools can be unwieldy for seniors with arthritis or other physical limitations. Tools modified specifically for those with arthritis can be found online at arthritissupplies.com, while ergonomically designed tools with large handles can be found on amazon.com, and at many other retailers.

PAY LESS

Water With Care

Eliminate the challenge of filling and carrying a large watering can by using a few small, empty soda bottles. These bottles can be filled and transported easily in a walker or wheelchair bag. Or, families can fill several during a visit and leave them closed within easy reach outside.

Reap The Benefits!

Studies have shows that time spent in a garden reduces stress, lowers blood pressure, and encourages healing. Plus, gardening is one of the few hobbies where you literally reap the benefits, whether those are beautiful flowers, tasty herbs, or juicy tomatoes!

Locate your MIPPA coordinator and contact them today.

for Medicare & Medicines If you answer YES to these 3 questions, you may qualify for assistance! 3 Do you have Medicare? 3 Are you having trouble paying for your prescription medications and Medicare Premiums? 3 Do you have limited income and resources?

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For more information go to https://oklahoma.gov/okdhs/medicareandmeds/mippa.html

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FRIDAY, March 25th

10AM Showtime, doors open at 9AM NO TICKET NEEDED, 1st come 1st served basis If you feel you are Senior, Please come! You may bring your Grandchildren.

Perfomance is FREE & Food and Beverages are available for purchase.

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senioradult! adult! Ah,Ah, to to bebe aa senior The golden years aregolden indeed so many reasons The golden years are indeed forgolden so manyfor reasons and in so in many ways. They areThey a time of alife when and so many ways. are time ofyou life when you appreciate and accept yourself for who you are; a time sit a time to sit appreciate and accept yourself for who youtoare; backback and reflect upon your accomplishments, and bathe in and reflect upon your accomplishments, and bathe in the cornucopia of warm memories you have collected over the cornucopia of warm memories you have collected over the years. A time when the wisdom and perspective that years. A time the wisdom that comethe with age make youwhen better able to handle and life’s perspective curve with youabetter to handle life’s curve balls.come And oh yes,age less make we forget, time to able take advantage balls. oh yes, we forget, toadults take advantage of the manyAnd freebies and less discounts offered atotime senior only.of That not freebies be the bestand partdiscounts of senior adulthood, themay many offered to senior adults but it’s right up there. Frombe retail grocery to senior insurance only. That may not theand best part of adulthood, and healthcare, there are all types of senior discounts to but it’s right up there. From retail and grocery to insurance claim. Maximize your savings and make the most out of and healthcare, there are all types of senior discounts to your purchases (large or small) by cashing in on them. Keep claim. your savings make theand most out of in mind thatMaximize not all businesses advertiseand their freebies your purchases (large or small) by cashing in discounts for older adults. So don’t be shy - ask. And do aon them. Keep littlein detective work.not all businesses advertise their freebies and mind that discounts for older adults. So don’t be shy - ask. And do a little detective work.

6 | SIMPLY SENIORS — WINTER 2021 38

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So, Who’s A Senior? Good question. Technically speaking, senior adults are card carrying members of Medicare. In other words, anyone age 65+. However, if you enroll in an AARP or Association of Mature American Citizens (AMAC), which you’re entitled to do on your 50th birthday, you can start cashing in on senior discounts. For all other discounts, the minimum age requirements vary based on the company or location and can range from 50 to 65 years of age. So, if unsure if you qualify for a senior discount? Don’t hesitate to ask!

Shop Till You Drop While not all retail stores provide a dedicated senior discount, many offer impressive savings with a store rewards card. And lots of shops offer weekly senior discount days.

Drug Store Discounts Many companies offer free prescription drug cards that can save you up big bucks at the pharmacy. As your pharmacy if they participate in this type of program.

Fast Food Freebies

There may be no such thing as a free lunch for seniors, but there is a free drink with purchase at fast food outlets like McDonald’s. Many IHOPs offer a 50% off discount one night a week, which translates to one dinner freebie if you bring a companion.

The Art Of The Freebie Many museums and cultural attractions offer admission that’s free or discounted for seniors. Ask about a senior citizen discount at the box office. Also, look for free stuff at public events and festivals.

There Are Free Rides Most public transportation systems offer money-saving passes, but some are completely free for seniors. Find out if your state is on board.

Free Tax Help A number of agencies offer tax preparation help or counseling to seniors at no cost, as do some local accountants. The IRS offers free “Tax Counseling for the Elderly” (TCE). TCE provides tax help to individuals who are aged 60. The IRS with some private or nongovernmental public nonprofit agencies or organizations, provides training and technical assistance to elderly individuals to prepare their income tax returns.

COME FEEL THE DIFFERENCE OF Personalized care

Free Cell Phones And Discounted Plans Many cellular providers have programs to make life easier on seniors by offering free cell phone and discounted rates on phone plans. Check out your carrier today.

Free Stuff For Your Grandchildren When you take your grandchildren with you, there are a lot more opportunities to save - and show the next generation a good time. As a general rule, many discounts that are available for seniors are also available for kids. From museums to public transportation to 2-for-1 specials at restaurants, planning ahead can lead to big savings.

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IMAGINE ALL YOUR RELOCATION PIECES COMING TOGETHER SEAMLESSLY

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IMAGINE ALL YOUR RELOCATION PIECES I am THINKING forever grateful to have had ABOUT SELLING Connie to sell my home, and, also COMING TOGETHER SEAMLESSLY FAMILY HOME, helped me inYOUR purchasing my current

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“

home. She has a heart for her clients RELOCATING and invaluable expertise in the OR entire DOWNSIZING?

process! Thank you, Connie! I am forever grateful to have had

Starting around age 55 there is a decrease - Frances Baker Connieintohow sellwell my adult home, and, also drivers process, remember and judge driving events, such in purchasing my current as the distance of oncoming traffic. helped We mayme notice losses in home. She has a heart for her clients our vision, memory, strength, flexibility, and reaction time. invaluable inA the entireFOR ALL SEASONS OF LIFE: REALTOR Aging doesn’t affect all drivers in theand same way. Your expertise health is closely connected to your ability to drive safely. Older process! Thank you, Connie! Connie@HomesteadRealtyco.com | 405.613.6890 | Connie.HomesteadRealtyco.com drivers and their families should discuss the matter with their - Frances Baker healthcare provider. The importance of keeping an aging family member safe without compromising their independence and mobility is I am forever grateful to have had Connie to essential to maintaining a thriving, engaged life. The topic sell my home, and, also helped me in purchasA REALTOR ALL SEASONS OF LIFE: of driving and seniors generates many concerns FOR and is an ing my current home. She has a heart for her uncomfortable topic that becomes the elephant in the Connie@HomesteadRealtyco.com | 405.613.6890 | Connie.HomesteadRealtyco.com room when families do engage parents in aging-related clients and invaluable expertise in the entire conversations. As a result, the subject is often delayed process! Thank you, Connie! until evidence of poor driving behaviors or signs of serious - Frances Baker cognitive or physical decline begin to appear.

LICENSE RENEWAL FOR SENIOR DRIVERS

Oklahoma drivers who are 70 years of age or older at the time their current driver license expires are generally required to renew their license in person at a local DPS office. In addition to taking a vision test (see below), you may in certain situations be asked to take a written knowledge test as well. In preparation for this, you can review the Oklahoma Drivers Handbook and take practice tests before going for your license renewal. For faster service at the DPS, you can make an appointment for your visit by calling your DMV office. 40

CAREGIVER Magazine

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Handy help for aging in place! YOUR COMFORT AND SAFETY IS OUR FOCUS Add grab bars anywhere in your home. Replacement of interior and exterior

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THE DPS REEXAMINATION

A DPS reexamination is when a person’s driving skills must be reevaluated based on one or more factors, including the driver’s physical or mental condition, or driving record. A DPS reexamination may be recommended by a family member, physical or emergency medical technician, or peace officer. Other times, information in your license renewal application or on your driving record may prompt a reexamination. The reexamination involves the immediate evaluation of an individual by a DPS approved hearing officer. It consists of an interview, and may also involve a vision test, a written test, and/or a driving test. To prepare for the test, many older drivers choose to enroll in a driver’s education program or driving school for seniors to brush up their skills. Following the reexamination, the hearing officer will decide whether any action should be taken regarding your driving privileges, such as restrictions, probation, suspension or revocation.

THE RESTRICTED DRIVERS LICENSE

Sometimes, a physical or mental condition can impair a driver’s ability to safely operate a motor vehicle. The most common of these conditions is poor vision, but others

CAREGIVER Magazine

which may be age-related include cognitive skills like memory, coordination and flexibility. In some circumstances, older drivers may have a restriction placed on their driver license. The types of restrictions vary, and are based on the results of your vision test, driving test, and the driving examiner’s assessment. A restricted driver license is intended to ensure that you are driving within your abilities. Some of the most common license restrictions are those that: • Require eyeglasses, corrective contact lenses, or bioptic telescopic lens to be worn at certain times. • Permit driving from sunrise to sunset only, or prohibit driving during rush hour. • Restrict the geographical area in which a person is permitted to drive, or prohibit freeway driving. • Require special mechanical devices, or an additional side mirror on the vehicle. • Require extra support in order to ensure a safe and correct driving position. Mobility is essential to keeping seniors active and engaged in their communities. Together we can ensure our loved ones are both safe and mobile as they face the challanges of driving in today’s world.

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Thank You for your service! Now let us be in service to you...

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Valentine’s Day

It’s All in the Details... Every February 14th, people around the world exchange gifts, chocolates, and romantic greetings for a day set aside for lovers. Many traditions are followed, all in the name of St. Valentine. Still, people may not understand why such customs are upheld. Much of the history of Valentine’s Day and St. Valentine himself is shrouded in mystery and much of what’s widely accepted is inaccurate. To set the record straight, here are some facts about the holiday. 44 Magazine CAREGIVER Magazine 4 4CAREGIVER

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CaregiverOklahoma.com CaregiverOklahoma.com

• Valentine’s Day is believed to have originated from a celebration in Rome during the fifth century. This celebration paid tribute to St. Valentine, a Catholic priest. Other historians surmise it was a way to “Christianize” the pagan holiday of Lupercalia, which was a fertility festival. Included in the traditions were boys and girls drawing names from a box and exchanging gifts. • The Catholic Church acknowledges at least three different saints named Valentine or Valentinus. • All of the stories surrounding St. Valentine—whether they are disputed or not—paint him as a sympathetic and heroic individual. • Valentine’s Day is celebrated in the United States, Canada, Mexico, the United Kingdom, France, and Australia. • Valentine’s Day and Mother’s Day are the most popular holidays to give flowers. • According to Hallmark, women purchase 85% of all valentines.

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• According to the Greeting Card Association, an estimated one billion Valentine’s Day cards are sent each year, making Valentine’s Day the second largest cardsending holiday of the year behind Christmas. • Candy was among the earliest Valentine’s Day gifts and remains a popular gift today. • Some tales suggest that the type of bird a girl watches on Valentine’s Day predicts her future husband. A bluebird indicates a happy man, while a sparrow indicates a poor man. • In Medieval times, girls consumed unusual foods on Valentine’s Day in the belief it would make them dream of their future husbands. • Valentine’s Day greetings have been popular from the Middle Ages onward, though they have been usually verbal in nature. • The oldest known written valentine still in existence today was a poem written in 1415 by Charles, Duke of Orleans, to his wife while he was imprisoned in the Tower of London following his capture at the Battle of Agincourt.

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Remember When... By Lisa Sydnor

“Where there is love, there is life.”

Remember when you made a “mail box” for your Valentine’s from classmates? Remember when we made our own Valentine’s? There was no giving store bought stuff to the important people in your life.

Remember when your heart pounded at the sight of your “Valentine”? You held your breath waiting to see if he dropped a Valentine in your “mail box”.

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CaregiverOklahoma.com CaregiverOklahoma.com

Valentine’s Day! Remember when Valentine’s Day school dances were a sea of red and white formals? Even the guys got into the mood with red or white tuxedos, shirts, and shoes? You had matching red carnations!

Remember when you kept your Valentines in a padded heart box (after eating the candy, of course)?

Remember when your beau gave you a dandelion – a real flower that you put in a jar of water?

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UHCCommunityPlan.com/OK Plans are insured through UnitedHealthcare Insurance Company or one of its affiliated companies, a Medicare Advantage organization with a Medicare contract and a contract with the State Medicaid program. Enrollment in the plan depends on the plan’s contract renewal with Medicare. Benefits, features and/or devices vary by plan/area. Limitations and exclusions apply. Depending on your level of Medicaid eligibility, costs may vary. OTC and Healthy Food benefits have expiration time frames. Call the plan or refer to your Evidence of Coverage (EOC) for more information. © 2021 United HealthCare Services, Inc. All Rights Reserved. Y0066_210720_044907_M 22SPRJ64529_H5322-031-000

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