33 minute read
Caregivers Corner
CAREGIVERS O R N E R
By Kathy Cocks, RN
Spring Cleaning
We all get excited about spring—warm weather, green grass and beautiful flowers. But somehow, we also associate spring with cleaning. We put away our coldweather clothes and then take the time to get rid of stuff we do not use. Sometimes our accumulation of “stuff” can be overwhelming.
What can we do this spring? We can organize and get rid of a few things not just to have a more tranquil space but a safer home. I have been into homes that are jammed-packed with furniture. Yet most of my clients need to use a walker and they have trouble navigating around the furniture. Or they have bruises from a piece of furniture that is impeding their movement.
Then look at items that are fall risks and do something about them. Throw rugs are one of the most dangerous items in the house because the padding that makes them nonslip begins to degrade and create a fall hazard. Most doorways have raised thresh holds that people can trip on if they can not lift their feet very well. A professional can design thresh holds that are level with the floor.
Next time watch how your loved one gets in and out of bed. It is harder than it looks, but a simple slide under the bed handrail gives them something to hold onto making it much easier and safer. I have also seen older people try to grab a bedside table to get up and many of these have sharp corners. Many seniors get up in the middle of the night to go to the bathroom and may feel groggy. Just another reason a bed rail can come in handy and help prevent a fall.
Most people do not want to leave lights on at night that disturb their sleep, but they need some kind of light as they navigate their way to the bathroom. Motion-activated low light can be installed or plugged in that turns on when it senses a person moving and it is a type of light that does not cause your brain to wake up fully. This is an inexpensive solution to keep loved ones safe at night.
Bathrooms tend to have large tile, cold floors, and sometimes spilled water which makes for a dangerous situation. Many homeowners are afraid if they install handrails or other aids it will decrease the value of their home but you should also remember these aids can be removed prior to putting your home on the market. Your comfort and safety in the present are the priority. There are inexpensive standard silver handrails, but manufacturers make stylish options to match your home’s existing fixtures. You can also purchase towel racks and toilet paper dispensers that can also function as handrails. You can have a bench installed in your shower that looks nice and can hold your weight. Even shelves can be installed in such a way as to function as a handrail. If you do not know how to purchase or install this equipment always consult with a professional to make sure everything is installed safely. A small investment can save money in the long run as individuals avoid expensive hospital and rehabilitation stays.
As a caregiver go through a mock day in the life of your loved one and evaluate the home based on functionality and safety. If they use a mobility aid put yourself in their circumstance. Go through their daily routine moving from room to room. Make a list of what works and what doesn’t. Sometimes all they need is sturdy handrails to get in and out of bed or up and down the porch.
Many people purchase a fall button in case they need emergency help. You can also have a keypad installed. But people do not think about how the
emergency personnel will get into their home. Some Fire Departments have a system in place where you can register your code. This allows emergency personnel to enter the home to provide assistance faster and prevents them from busting through the front door potentially saving you thousands of dollars in repairs. When performing your spring cleaning this year look for ways to make your home safer. If excess furniture is putting you at risk donate those items to a good cause. Kathy Cocks, RN www.kathysconsulting.com 405-202-0708
info@kathysconsulting.com
We
A comprehensive approach of care to clients
with Alzheimer's and other forms of dementia.
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engaging clients with the world and people
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remaining skills and abilities.
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Alzheimer’s and Dementia Care Private-Duty Nursing Personal Home Care
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Y O U R C O M F O R T A N D S A F E T Y I S O U R F O C U S
Serving the OKC Metro
C A L L T O S C H E D U L E A F R E E C O N S U L T A T I O N 405-353-7867
Add grab bars anywhere in your home. Replacement of interior and exterior door knobs to handles, keypad entry systems and wireless doorbell cameras. Upgrade to high profile toilet. Replace light bulbs. Solutions for low maintenance of yards. We offer a wide variety of need-based solutions.
ASSISTED LIVINGLongterm Care Options in Oklahoma — 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
By Neil Johnson, and Shelley Stutchman
MEDICARE Groovy Spring Patio Dining
Something about spring in Oklahoma makes us want to dine outside. The breeze is warm, mixed with a cool touch as the evening approaches. Nature is coming alive again with colors that rival an artist’s painting. An Oklahoma sunset has a brilliance unique to anywhere else.
Medicare Jet-Setters Neil and Shelley have reviewed and tested the following patio dining spots around OKC and Edmond that are senior citizen-friendly. That means the chairs are comfortable and have backs, the patio is clean and pretty, it is physically easy to enter, and the acoustics are good.
Pearls Oyster Bar: 5641 N. Classen Blvd, Oklahoma City, OK 73118
Pearls has a large patio with a New Orleans atmosphere. Jazzy blues piped outside, and the volume is just right, loud enough to create the mood but does not interfere with conversation. Pearls also have a rooftop patio; however, you need to climb the stairs to enjoy that one. We enjoy sitting out on the deck on Tuesday evenings. That is because, on Tuesdays, you can get their fresh oysters on the half shell for only one dollar each.
La Baguette Bistro: 7408 N May Ave, Oklahoma City, OK 73116
Do you ever have the yearning to get away and take a vacation, but you don’t have the time? Then check out the patio at La Baguette. You can sit under the shadows of the Eifel Tower anchored to the roof. A canopy of twinkle lights set the mood on a Spring evening. The food is always good and oh so French. You may want to wear your beret.
The Cheesecake Factory: 5600 N Penn Avenue, Oklahoma City, OK 73112
The Cheesecake Factory has two patios to enjoy. What could be better than sitting on their sunny terrace, with piped-in music, and enjoying your favorite slice of heaven, I mean cheesecake, with a cold glass of iced tea? My favorite is the original cheesecake topped with fresh glazed strawberries.
Flip’s Wine Bar & Trattoria: 5801 N Western Ave, Oklahoma City, OK 73118
A lazy spring Saturday afternoon is the perfect time to visit Flip’s Wine Bar & Trattoria and sit on their charming patio. A late European-influenced lunch menu and an excellent wine or sparkling water turn a regular Saturday afternoon into a mini escape. Get some sun, unwind, and enjoy Flip’s patio, no better way to celebrate spring.
Louie’s Grill & Bar: 9401 Lake Hefner Pkwy., Oklahoma City, OK 73120
On these spring days, do you want to take a walk around Lake Hefner with your dog in tow, then enjoy a drink and bite to eat? Louie’s lakeside patio is the perfect spot. You can dine outside with a beautiful view of the lake, and your dog is welcome. Try out the patio at Louie’s Grill & Bar this spring to relax with your best furry friend. PS..you don’t have to own a dog to enjoy this outdoor dining paradise.
Inspirations Gifts Décor & Tea Room: 2118 W Edmond Rd, Edmond, OK 73003
To sit outside, dine, enjoy the beauty of nature, and relax is what patio partaking is all about. The patio at Inspirations Tea Room provides all those ingredients. This patio will sweep you away from your everyday cares. I suggest a lovely brunch on the deck with one of their specialty coffees or teas.
Your own backyard: Out your back door. IMAGINE ALL YOUR RELOCATION PIECES COMING TOGETHER SEAMLESSLY
THINKING ABOUT SELLING YOUR FAMILY HOME, RELOCATING OR DOWNSIZING? “ I am forever grateful to have had Connie to sell my home, and, also helped me in purchasing my current home. She has a heart for her clients and invaluable expertise in the entire IMAGINE ALL YOUR RELOCATION PIECES COMING TOGETHER SEAMLESSLY “ process! Thank you, Connie! - Frances Baker I am forever grateful to have had Connie to sell my home, and, also helped me in purchasing my current home. She has a heart for her clients A REALTOR FOR ALL SEASONS OF LIFE: and invaluable expertise in the entire Connie@HomesteadRealtyco.comprocess! Thank you, Connie! | 405.613.6890 | Connie.HomesteadRealtyco.com - Frances Baker I am forever grateful to have had Connie to
A REALTOR FOR ALL SEASONS OF LIFE: sell my home, and, also helped me in purchasing my current home. She has a heart for her Connie@HomesteadRealtyco.com | 405.613.6890 | Connie.HomesteadRealtyco.com clients and invaluable expertise in the entire process! Thank you, Connie! - Frances Baker
The best outdoor patio dining of all may be your backyard located right outside your backdoor. Grill yourself the perfect steak and pour your favorite drink. Then sit back, enjoy the spring breeze, and while you are at it, ask Alexa to play “Feelin Groovy,” (the 59th Street Bridge Song) by Simon and Garfunkle.
FOR A FREE CONSULTATION CALL
Homestead & Co Realty 405.613.6890 2601 Kelley Pointe Pkwy, Ste 201 Edmond, OK 73012 Cell: 405.613.6890 O ce: 405.509.0541
Movie Spotlight Groovy Films for Seniors
The Last Laugh on Netflix
Review by Shelley Stutchman
Thank you, Netflix, for recognizing an entire population of seniors that love movies showcasing characters we can relate with and enjoy. There is a plethora of flicks featuring stories about the life of the twenty-something age bracket. It is groovy to finally have films featuring the baby boomer generation. Netflix created “The Last Laugh” in 2019 for seniors. Chevy Chase and Richard Dreyfuss are the main characters and just as funny and wonderful now as they were when we watched them at their height of popularity in the 1970s and ‘80s. The meat of the story takes us on a journey with Chevy and Richard getting back into the showbiz industry after leaving it fifty years earlier. The show’s heart is about inspiring us that it’s never too late to get your act together.
Both Chevy and Richard have less hair, more wrinkles, and age spots, but that only makes their facial expressions more vivid. The development of their characters will draw you in, and they will get inside your heart. “The Last Laugh” will make you laugh, cry, and feel empowered.
Find “The Last Laugh” on Netflix. It confirms getting older is groovy.
Archwell Health:
A positive change in primary care.
Anne McIntosh is a perky, sassy, joyous, “never met a stranger”, 84-year-old. Anne didn’t retire until she was 71 years old after working retail for more than 53 years. Anne is very much a people person, and the quarantine was especially difficult for her. She stated: “The COVID quarantine almost killed me. I lost 20 pounds, became very sad, was dreadfully lonely, and lost so much energy and strength. By the time of the open house for this ArchWell HealthTM clinic, I was also very depressed. I fell in love with Dr. Medina and the idea of a “one-stop-shop” so to speak. And look at me now!”
Last fall, Anne saw a lot of activity in the Windsor Mall building where she had worked for the discount store TG&Y and wondered what was going into that space. When she received the invitation to attend the grand opening, she and her granddaughter went to see what was happening in her former workplace. During the grand opening, she met Dr. Andria Medina, had a tour of the center, and caught the vision that changed her life. At ArchWell Health, Anne plays bingo and rummy, participates in exercise classes, and is in physical therapy to regain muscle mass and strength.
Dr. Andria Medina is a wife, mother, award-winning scholar, honored physician, published researcher, and former associate professor at Oklahoma University. She is a lifelong resident of the north Oklahoma City area. She earned her bachelor’s; medical degree; did her residency and Chief Residency in Internal Medicine; and earned her doctorate in Biological Chemistry and Molecular Biology from Oklahoma University. She supervised a residency program, taught, and attended a large caseload. Medina said of her time at OU, “OU raised me. I was there for more than 20 years;
As a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, Dr. Medina began re-evaluating work/family life balance. Her husband Joey Medina, a physician’s assistant working nights in an ER in Oklahoma City, was also re-evaluating his professional life. The future for their two children, Sydney, 11, and Lennon, 4, weighed heavily on their hearts. During this period, ArchWell Health approached Dr. Medina about leading a team in their comprehensive senior patient primary care clinic.
Dr. Medina had not considered leaving OU, just realigning her priorities and perhaps lightening her responsibilities. However, as she researched ArchWell Health’s model of comprehensive primary care for people 65 and over, she realized comprehensive primary care for 450-500 senior patients was caregiving her way.
The Medina’s both work days now; have more family time and critical partner time. Dr. Medina now has a patient load that is more manageable, allowing time to know her patients, practice in a softer, more relaxed environment, and live a more balanced family/work life.
Staff at ArchWell Health can be seen in the common areas talking with patients, second-guessing a play made in a rummy game, or watching yoga or exercise classes.
Dr. Medina wants to KNOW each patient, what their family/home life is like, are they married? Do they have children? Are they retired? Where did they work? This information helps to shape the individual care plan for each of Dr. Medina’s patients. And because she sees fewer patients, Dr. Medina is able to schedule same-day appointments. That makes it easier for her patients to access their healthcare when they need it.
Locations
Locations Mid-Del
6951 Southeast 15th St Mid-Del Midwest City, OK 73110 6951 Southeast 15th St Midwest City, OK 73110
Windsor
Windsor 4629 NW 23rd St 4629 NW 23rd St Oklahoma City, OK 73127Oklahoma City, OK 73127
TM
primary care doctors for seniors
Southwestern
7313 S Western Ave primary care Oklahoma City, OK 73139 for seniors
OFF TO A FUN START!
By Lisa Sydnor
With one Fun Day completed and two more Fun Days on the horizon, 2022 is definitely off to a fun start! We had this year’s first BETTER WITH AGE Health & Safety Fun Day in Del City on March 24th. Our goal since the beginning, in the spring of 2019, of Better With Age Health & Safety Fun Days, is to entertain, educate and enlighten all who attend. Some comments as attendees were surrounding the exhibitors; “Wow! This is amazing!”, “I’m having so much fun!”, “I had no idea that this event would actually be this much fun.”, “I’ve got so much information to read when I get home, I may be up all night!”, “When is the next fun day? I want to go to it.” Your excitement, laughter, singing, and joy are music to our ears!
To the City of Del City, the Mayor, City Manager and City staff, thank you for a wonderful collaborative partnership. It is easy and fun when you have great people eager to have a successful event who work hard to make it happen.
To the Color Guard from Forty and Eight and American Legion Post 73, thank you. Tom Nix, performer extraordinaire, thank you for playing the keyboards and singing, but you topped it with audience participation! DJ Jammin Jeff Aynes, another superb production as emcee all while playing tunes that made the day simply flow by! OHAI instructors always do a great job and that tradition continues. There were the lovely ladies of the “Not Just Country Line Dancers” dancing and teaching the more adventurous attendees and exhibitors a few new steps.
More than 225 attendees were impressed and educated by 59 enthusiastic exhibitors. Thank you to our exhibitors who provided at no cost blood pressure checks, balance tests, vision exams, and the recycling of medical equipment. The attendees won over 40 amazing door prizes provided by the exhibitors. The energy and positivity could be felt throughout the Del City community center it was inspirational.
Many thanks to our sponsors: New View Oklahoma, OG&E and Cigna. Having OG&E bags and hand sanitizer at the reception table for all attendees is a perk. Courtesy of New View and Cigna who were the food and beverage sponsors a great variety of complementary food items and snacks, including hot breakfast biscuits, fresh fruit, yogurt, granola bars and more, providing everyone options for nourishment the entire event.
The breakout sessions offered a broad spectrum of information. Deputy Tara Hardin, Oklahoma County Sherriff’s Department, and Capt. Bradley Cowden, City of Del City Police Department are on top of the current scams and fraudulent activities affecting our State. Joel Kintsel, Executive Director of the Oklahoma Department of Veterans Affairs, along with Robert Arrington, Shaun Kirkland, and Josh Houston reviewed the many benefits available to veterans and how to access them. Ray Walker, Divisional Director, Medicare Assistance Program, Oklahoma Insurance Department, reviewed the Medicare Assistance Program and its impact on individuals and the State. Matthew Willoughby, Assistant Attorney General from the Oklahoma Office of Attorney General covered how to identify and report fraud.
All in all, it was fun, informative and highenergy! Add the May 12th and October 13th Fun Days to your calendars and join us at the Shoppes at NorthPark, 121st & North May Ave. from 9am - 1pm. Great fun and surprises are waiting!
By Charles Lillard, Oklahoma County Extension Master Gardener
ANNUALS OR PERENNIALS?
Caregivers get some self-care by giving care to plants. As a caregiver, you give much. There is a reward from the care we give. Caring for plants has rewards also. I became a certified Master Gardener when I retired in 2012. During the years that followed, I have given care and received care. This article will be of special interest to gardeners but it is my hope that perhaps non-gardeners will be challenged to become gardeners. This can happen on a number of levels. It can mean container gardening or creating an outdoor space to dig in the dirt. There is something therapeutic about digging in the dirt, which we will be calling soil henceforth. This article can pertain to the plants by your window or those surrounding your home.
Those who love to dig outside have been looking forward to April since November. Temperatures are rising, the soil is warming, and it is time to plant.
As you look for plants to put in your landscape or containers, you should consider location (shade or sun), water needs, height desired, and perennial or annual. Plants bought at garden centers will have a tag designating them as perennial or annual. Sometimes you see a tag that will read tender perennial. I have heard it said that tender perennials in Oklahoma (zones 6-7) are actually annuals. That is not always true. It just means you might lose this plant after one growing season. A perennial plant should last for more than one or two growing seasons. The oak tree in my backyard is a perennial. It has lived for over 100 years. Most perennials will not live that long but will have multiple growing seasons. The top part of the plant may die back each winter and regrow the following spring from the same root system.
An annual will have only one growing season. It is good for the short-haul but cannot be counted on to live past the first freeze. Annuals perform their entire life cycle from seed to flower to seed in a single growing season. Only the dormant seed bridges the gap between one generation and the next.
There are also Biennial plants. These plants require two years to complete their life cycle. Biennial plants flower and form seeds in the second season followed by the plant’s death.
There is no denying that perennials are a good investment. They are the foundation plants that landscaping is planned around. They come back year after year and give us much enjoyment.
So why plant annuals? Because we love geraniums, petunias, begonias, impatiens, coleus, and the list goes on. Annuals create colorful displays that last an entire growing season. A popular trend is to use tropical plants that would never survive a hard winter but add so much to the landscape. This list could include banana, caladium, cannas, castor bean, elephant ear, mandevilla, bougainvillea, hibiscus, fuchsia, and dracaena. Some of these can be dug up and stored for the winter but may be an annual if not. Outdoor containers are ideal for tropical plants. You just bring them inside before the first frost.
Enjoy annuals while you can. They are worth the joy they give, even if for one season.
If you have questions on gardening and horticulture OSU Extension Center has the answers, call 405-713-1125
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If you answer YES to these 3 questions, you may qualify for assistance!
Locate your MIPPA coordinator and contact them today.
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?
Human Services
Jean Kidd
Elizabeth.Kidd@okdhs.org (405) 630-9715 Mary Ann Briscoe
MaryAnn.Briscoe@okdhs.org (405) 640-1002 Sue Grant
Sgrant@incog.org (918) 579-9477 Teresa Ryan
Anita.CTR.Ryan@okdhs.org (405) 642-1538 Marilyn Conley
Marilyn.CTR.Conley@okdhs.org (405) 982-1914 Debra Shadid
Debra.CTR.Shadid@okdhs.org (405) 212-7910
For more information go to https://oklahoma.gov/okdhs/medicareandmeds/mippa.html
As we age, it’s even more important to practice good UV safety. Check out these sun protection tips for older adults.
Most skin cancers result from sun damage over time. Since seniors have lived longer, we have had the most exposure to the sun.
Our skin undergoes changes as we age, which weakens our defenses against skin disease. Our thinner skin allows UV light to penetrate more deeply, which can make us more vulnerable to skin damage. Smoking and pollution also harm our body’s ability to protect us from damage from the sun. All of this increases our risk of getting skin cancer.
Skin cancer is one of the most preventable forms of cancer.What are some UV safety tips for older adults?
• Pay attention to the time. The sun’s UV rays are the strongest between 10 am and 4 pm. Try to schedule your time outside in the early morning or afternoon. If you must be outside during this time, stay in the shade.Let Our Family Take Care of Yours
www.integrityseniorcareokc.com
Bathing - Dressing Meal Preparation Respite Care Home Health Care Alzheimer ' s Care Errands Hospice Light Housekeeping Medication Reminders
"Integrity Senior Care treated Mom with the utmost respect! The staff is very caring, efficient and treated her like family and gave me peace of mind! I couldn't thank the caregiver's enough for all their hard work and generosity. I would recommend Integrity Senior Care to anyone. " Judith Crain 11212 N. May Ave, Suite 207 OKC, OK 73013 (405)810-5128
• Use the right sunscreen. Choose a sunscreen that is SPF 15 or higher and has “blocks UVA and UVB” or “broad spectrum” on the label.
• Use sunscreen correctly. Sunscreen should be applied 20 minutes before being in the sun and then reapplied every 2 hours. Be sure to reapply immediately after swimming or heavy sweating.
• Wear protective clothing. Wearing protective clothing like a wide-brimmed hat, a long-sleeved shirt, and long pants can protect you from the sun’s harmful rays. Some types of outdoor clothing are designed to filter UV rays. Also, be sure to remember your UVfiltering sunglasses.
Taking a few extra precautions will allow you to enjoy your time outdoors.
Fri • May 20 7:30 PM Sat • May 21 3:00 PM Sun • May 22 3:00 PM
The Back Forty
By Jim Kettler
In about 1976, I worked for the chain of TG&Y Stores Co. At that time, I supervised the mailroom. It was a really busy mailroom, serving over 900 retail stores, several division offices, and about 10 warehouses. One day a co-worker came through the mailroom and said, “Cary Grant is in the reception room.” I thought “oh yeah, and Mickey Mantle is touring the parking lot.” In a few minutes, another coworker came through the mailroom and said, “Cary Grant is down in the cafeteria, drinking coffee with one of the buyers.” That’s when I decided I had to investigate.
I went to the company cafeteria and when I walked in the door, there was Cary Grant, drinking coffee with the head of the buying department. My jaw dropped, I blinked my eyes and went over to them. I shook hands with Cary Grant! We exchanged greetings and I went back to work. It was a little unreal.
Our receptionist, Patty, said she got a peck on the cheek from Mr. Grant. She said, “isn’t he good-looking for 72 years old?” That’s when I had the most foolish thought of my life. I was only 28 years old at the time, and I thought “I hope I look that good when I’m 72 years old.” Well, I’m now 73 years old, and I can tell you that I missed the mark miserably.
That thought never left my mind, though. In fact, that whole story is just to explain the inspiration for a poem – maybe even song lyrics – I wrote recently.
A few days ago, I was thinking about that long-ago encounter with Cary Grant, and the silly thought that went through my mind that day. From that, some words started coming together in my head and, before I knew it, I had the beginnings of a poem that could even become a song. Probably a country song. Read it and see if it doesn’t sound like a country song.
When I get to heaven, I’m going to look like Cary Grant I’ll sound like James Earl Jones and do all the things that here I can’t I’ll be tall and slim and handsome, I’ll sing like Vince Gill does I’ll play guitar like Roy Clark and be cool just like Elvis was
Well, it’s not a prize winner, of course. But it was fun just writing it down. Do you ever become inspired at times to write a book, do some wood carving, take up a new pastime, or just any new activity? The sources of your inspiration could be any number of things, but the important thing is to act on your inspiration.
Quite a few years ago, I heard the late Zig Ziglar speak at a national conference. He told the story of how he had been inspired to lose weight. He was already a well-known motivational speaker at the time, and one morning he caught a glimpse of himself in the mirror just as he was getting dressed. He said, “there I was, speaking every day to crowds about how they can be their very best if they just think positively. And there I was, a big fat boy who wasn’t listening to myself and had the size to prove it.” He went on to tell how he decided to start jogging to get in better shape. He said, “the first day, I put on my new jogging suit and ran to the mailbox. I was out of breath, so I ran back in the house. The next day, I ran to the mailbox next door. In a week, I could run to the corner and back. By the next month, I could run around the block, and in a few months, I had lost over a hundred pounds and could run a mile.”
Inspiration comes in all kinds of packages, sometimes in the form of shock or even disappointment. But however it comes, if we act on it, it can change the direction of our lives. Act on your inspiration, won’t you? You might just change your world.
Giving New Meaning To Life!
If maintaining independence is key - you can continue to thrive and socialize with an amazing group of senior adults. If personal care assistance is needed - our staff can help you live a healthier lifestyle. If you are caring for someone with Alzheimer's or another type of dementia, we specialize in caring for those who are walking the journey with a dementia causing disease.
Assisted Living and
Memory Care
Arbor House is about personal freedom and choices. We pride ourselves in providing high quality service in a comfortable, secure environment.
Arbor House of Norman (405) 292-9200 4501 W Main St, Norman, OK 73072 Reminisce Center of Norman (405) 310-2499 151 48th Ave SW Norman, OK 73072 Arbor House Midwest City (405) 455-3900 9240 E. Reno Ave. Midwest City, OK 73130 Arbor House of Mustang (405) 376-2872 850 N. Clearsprings Rd. Mustang, OK 73064
SERVING YOU AND YOUR LOVED ONES
Senior Transitions recognizes and manages the stress of relocating our older adults along with their lifetime of memories.
We ’ll Coordinate Your Move
Provide a written and pictorial inventory Pack items to be moved, shipped, or sold Arrange for professional movers Unpack, remove the mess and get you settled in–(beds
Ship or store items going to family and friends Arrange for an estate sale and donations
made, clocks/coffee pot plugged in, and pictures hung)
Disposition of Items Not Going to Your New Home
Oklahoma City: Patti Hamlin (405) 315-3844
Tulsa: Tiffany Light (918) 488-0004
Amber Bergeson, Owner
"Our move was a walk in the park with your services.
CALL TODAY FOR YOUR COMPLEMENTARY CONSULTATION
$150 a month to $150 a month to buy covered over-the-counter buy covered over-the-counter products and groceries products and groceries
Get a prepaid card to buy covered over-the-counter (OTC) products and groceries. It’s just one of many extra benefits you could get with UnitedHealthcare Dual Complete® LP (HMO D-SNP). Get a prepaid card to buy covered over-the-counter (OTC) products and groceries. It’s just one of many extra benefits you could get with With $150 a month on one prepaid card, you can: UnitedHealthcare Dual Complete® LP (HMO D-SNP). • Buy everyday health care products, including pain relievers, vitamins, supplements, bandages, antacids, cough drops, allergy relief, With $150 a month on one prepaid card, you can: toothpaste and more Buy everyday health care products, including pain relievers, vitamins, • Buy healthy foods, including fruits, vegetables, fish, meat, dairy, supplements, bandages, antacids, cough drops, allergy relief, beans, bread, cereals, pasta and moretoothpaste and more • Shop at participating stores, including many national retailers and neighborhood stores, or order online with free home delivery options Buy healthy foods, including fruits, vegetables, fish, meat, dairy, beans, bread, cereals, pasta and more See if you can get this plan. Call today. Shop at participating stores, including many national retailers and neighborhood stores, or order online with free home delivery options
See if you can get this plan. Call today.
Dual Complete is a health plan for people who:
• Have both Medicaid and
MedicareDual Complete is a health • Could use more help plan for people who: to cover more care • Have both Medicaid and and costsMedicare • Want more benefits for a $0 plan premium • Could use more help to cover more care and costs • Want more benefits for a $0 plan premium
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. CAREGIVER Magazine48 Y0066_210720_044907_M Issue 20 CaregiverOklahoma.com 22SPRJ64529_H5322-031-000
