CAREGIVER Magazine-Providing Options And Support-Issue 22-August/September 2022

CAREGIVER

PROVIDING OPTIONS AND SUPPORT

FREE COPY

Issue 22

August/September 20221

You’re Invited! BETTER WITH AGE Fun Day October 13th, 9am-1pm Shoppes at NorthPark

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.

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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

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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

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CONTENT

20 2022 OK SR. Games 08 The Powerful Peters Family

OK SR. Games 14 Game Schedule To Participate

Forever Young

18

An Introspect On Aging

Medicare Jet Setters 20 Groovy Boomer Wedding

Movie Spotlight 23 Maverick

Caregivers Corner 23 Change Is Inevitable

30 Ask Lisa

People Need People

32 Better With Age

Fun Day - Oct 13th • 9 AM - 1 PM

36 Community Heartbeat

Affordable Housing - Brace for Impact

38 Oklahoma Assistance Resource Guide

40 Medicare Annual Enrollment

42

Easy Tips To Prepare

42 Master Gardener Container Gardening

44 Remember When...

Fun At The Fair!

46 45th Annual Sr. Day OK State Fair Fly Me To The Moon, Sept. 21st

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ON THE COVER: Meet the Peters Siblings. Their family’s enthusiasm and dedication to living a healthy active life make them legendary Oklahomans. They are an amazing example of the benefits of exercise, socializing, being active, resilient, and productive at all stages of life. They have faced adversity and triumphed together and prove you can get Better With Age. Enjoy reading their story, OK Sr. Games: The Powerful Peters Family, on page 8.

44 CAREGIVER Magazine CAREGIVER Magazine

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48 Years of Excellence!

The Most Experienced Continuing Care Retirement Community in the Area, caring for seniors since 1974!

SPANISH COVE is a community that values living life to its fullest! We’re located in Yukon, attracting residents from all areas of the state. We are a Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRC) offering every level of care from independent living to home health care, assisted living, memory care and skilled nursing.

Residents enjoy a lifestyle that is maintenance-free and carefully customized to offer a fulfilling life with options to explore their interests. Spanish Cove understands that staying active, being healthy in body, mind, and spirit is what living is all about. We believe in lifelong learning and opportunities to enrich life.

We’re offering HUGE move incentives!

Get the most out of the hot housing market while it lasts.

1. Rate Freeze for 3 years on Select 1 Bedroom Apartments (This has NEVER BEFORE OFFERED!) 2. Discounted, Move-In Ready 1-Bedroom Deluxe and 2-Bedroom Select Apartments 3. Packing, Moving and Unpacking Services/Allowances up to $2,500 on Select Apartments 4. Rental Advantage Program on Select Apartments for those not interested in Life-Care

Hurry! These are only available while we have move-in ready apartments or until Aug. 31, 2022, whichever comes first. On Sept. 1st, rates will increase.

Call Jill at (405) 354-5906 Schedule a tour or visit spanishcove.com Spanish Cove Retirement Village is a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organization.

11 Palm Ave., Yukon , OK

You’re Invited! BETTER WITH AGE Fun Day October 13th, 9am-1pm Shoppes at NorthPark

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Dear Readers, I hope you are well and enjoying all summer has to offer.

In this issue, we are highlighting healthy living, exercise, socialization, and the many benefits of friendships. The next few months have a plethora of activities and events you can plug into; OK Sr. Games, Sr. Day at the OK St. Fair, and our Better With Age Fun Day. Plenty of fun and excitement to look forward to.

I hope you are truly getting Better With Age. However, I know that is not the case for so many. I don’t think we give ourselves enough credit for what we can still accomplish and truthfully if you’re a caregiver for a loved one you may not be living your best life because you are keeping your care recipient from living their best life. If my words seem harsh let me explain.

Life happens and we all age, minor health issues that are not taken seriously, in the beginning, can lead to a health crisis, and an accident or fall can send us on a downward health spiral. Sickness, pain, and aches affect our mental state, and our mental state affects our physical well-being, it is a vicious cycle. If that loop is not stopped it will speed up our expiration date.

What we put in our heads, our hearts and our mouth directly affects our well-being. If our goal is to live a long vibrant healthy happy purposeful life that doesn’t happen effortlessly. That is why recovering fully from an accident is essential to staying on track or jumping on a better healthier track. It is also one aspect where caregivers can be a hindrance in our loved one’s recovery.

Shocking right, but you can simply do too much for them and they can’t fully recover. You can’t encase them in bubble wrap and not let them get back to their healthier self by doing everything for them. If you want them to recover, let them. If you’re the one trying to recover know their behavior is out of love but you need to have a serious discussion with them before it gets way out of hand and you can no longer walk because they roll you everywhere fearful you’re going to fall. For this reason, I see the value of skilled nursing and in-patient rehab after an accident or surgery because the staff care for you but they don’t limit recovery by over-assisting.

Health conditions that don’t get redirected will shorten our lives and make us feel miserable as we age. Diabetes is the single biggest health crisis facing our country and our state. No one goes from normal healthy blood sugar levels to a diabetic overnight. It is a process and we are in 100% control of stopping type 2 diabetes. We have the ability to stop eating sugary snacks and drinks, grains meant to fatten livestock, junk foods, and high glycemic fruits. They are all no different than eating candy in our bloodstream.

Diabetes prevents wounds from healing and increases our chance of blindness, kidney failure, heart disease, stroke, Alzheimers, and amputation. In 2017, I survived a pulmonary embolism astounding the doctors that I lived. I was morbidly obese and very sick. In 2018 I made the simple change to eating a very low glycemic diet and have lost over 160lbs, so far. I would be dead if I had not changed what I ate. The heavier we are the harder it is to move and moving builds muscle, balance and stamina. Moving more positively impacts our lives no matter our age or current health level.

Feeding our minds being lifelong students by constantly learning new things keep our brains active and healthy. Surround yourself with genuinely happy positive people. Our souls need human interaction. We are not designed to be isolated from one another. We need laughter and joy that only human interaction provides. Socialize more, laugh more enjoy your life to the fullest. May God bless you and your family on your journey of improved health and well-being. You can get Better With Age and live your best life now! It is never too late to start.

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 Jim Kettler Emberlee Nash Cover Photographer Kylee Neil Contributing Photographers Jessie Newell Emberlee Nash

Community Outreach Lisa Sydnor 405-314-7840 l.sydnor@betterwithageok.com

Layout Wise Marketing ADVERTISING Publisher LaShanya Nash 405.532.6057 l.nash@betterwithageok.com ACCOUNTING ANDREA O’HAIR

Sincerely, LaShanya L. Nash

Digital Copy: CaregiverOklahoma.com

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2022 OKlahoma Senior Games

By Lisa Sydnor

excellence. For the Peters siblings, “all of the above and more” are their reasons for participating in the Oklahoma Senior Games.

The Peters family is an amazing example of the benefits of exercise, socializing, being active, resilient, and productive at all stages of life.

The siblings excel in their chosen sports and participate in Oklahoma Senior Games for different, yet same, reasons.

When asked why they participate in the Oklahoma Senior Games there were varied responses; competition, socialization, exercise, purpose, staying fit, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, feeling younger, and resilience. A competitive spirit and resilient nature are usually contributing factors that keep you pushing forward when you think you have maxed out.

It is a spark, a light, to keep you striving for 8

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Regina Peters Stewart, 65 years, clarified her motivation, saying: “I want to stay active, busy, be productive, feel younger and be healthy.” Regina has always been a tomboy; ready to take on any challenge her brothers threw at her, then and now.

Track and field is her sport of choice. There were no sports programs in high school for girls when Regina was in school.

No opportunity to earn an athletic college scholarship. Regina persevered; earning an associate degree from Rose State College; attending Oklahoma University for one year, finally, at the age of 40, she earned her degree in Organizational Leadership from Southern Nazarene University.

Regina does some form of exercise daily. Competition is in her blood. She makes choices every day to be healthy, and promote personal wellness. Oklahoma had no Senior Games organization so Regina traveled out of state to participate in Issue 22

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Senior Games and qualified for National Senior Games for two years. In 2016, Regina organized four Peters family teams to compete in the Sooner State Games in Sulphur. The all-female relay teams were comprised of her two daughters, five nieces, and three cousins. Regina’s team won first and second place in the races. In 2015, she organized and created Oklahoma Senior Games (OSG). She continues to serve as President of the organization.

Tony Peters, 69 years, former Oklahoma University (OU) & National Football League (NFL) football player, said of his reasons for participating, “It’s my competitive nature, gives me purpose and keeps me active, keeps my spirits up. It is important to stay engaged; I believe we should go as long as we are mentally and physically able.” Tony has a teaching certification with a degree in Social Studies. He teaches history and government; as well as coaching football at a Tulsa High School.

Tony played football at OU under Barry Switzer and was part of the 1974 team winning a National Championship. Later he played in the NFL for the Cleveland Browns. He was a Washington Redskins for ten years and played in Super Bowl XVII and in the Pro Bowl in 1982.

returning in 1992 to complete his degree. In the late 1990s, he served as assistant athletic director under Steve Owens.

Terry played in the NFL with the Denver Broncos; in Canadian football for the Montreal Alouettes, and then for the United States Football League. For the past 25 years, he has been a partner in a company in the gaming industry.

Terry plays golf with an eight handicap. He stated, “Staying active, playing in Celebrity Tournaments, being in Oklahoma Senior Games, keeps me psychologically prepared, physically in shape, and ready to compete.”

Karl Peters, 62 years, who was a high school track and football; in college concentrated on football, stated, “Due to a significant sports injury, I do not take my physical health for granted. Staying active and fit is essential to a healthy lifestyle and to my mental and physical health.”

Karl played football at OU where he sustained injuries that ended his football career.

Karl completed his college education, earning a degree in Human Resources. He worked in Albertson’s management for ten years before going to UPS where he has been for

Golf is his sport now. He has a handicap of six.

According to Google (yes, I know nothing about golf!) that is a pretty good handicap. He often plays in Celebrity Golf Tournaments.

Terry Peters, 67 years, also a former OU & NFL football player, agreed with Tony saying, “It’s that competition! We are very competitive and staying active and healthy are critical.”

Terry was State Champion in Hurdles; qualified to run track at the 1973 Olympic Trials and received over 100 college scholarship offers. Terry went to North Texas University for three (3) weeks when he got a call saying, “Barry wants you.” “Goodbye Texas, Hello OU” where he was on National Championship teams in 1974 and 1975 and named MVP of the Fiesta Bowl in 1976! Terry earned a degree in Physiology and Education. He left college in 1978, You’re Invited! BETTER WITH AGE Fun Day October 13th, 9am-1pm Shoppes at NorthPark

9

more than 30 years. Karl feels staying fit – at whatever level you can achieve –is imperative both mentally and physically.

He found an avenue to continue his involvement in football by coaching high school teams. He also shared his time and talent as a volunteer little league coach. As a golfer, he continues to participate in tournaments and in Oklahoma Senior Games.

Tony, Terry, Regina and Karl Peters grew up in the Pauls Valley, OK area. Life has not always been easy. That’s where resilience has provided the ability to persevere and continue to work toward goals. The Peters family has a built-in support system. Yes, they compete with each other, but they also support and stand beside each other; that’s their story. It began when they were very young and continues to sustain them as older adults.

According to a study by Psychology Today, what we have seen in recent years is a high rate of resilience among older adults.

Resilience is defined as the psychological quality that allows some people to be knocked down by the adversities of life and come back at least as strong as before. Rather than letting difficulties, traumatic events, or failure overcome them and

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drain their resolve, highly resilient people find a way to change course, emotionally heal, and continue moving toward their goals. The Peters family has a high degree of resilience.

Today health is defined by wellness and physical capacities.

Wellness is defined as the active process of becoming aware of and making choices toward a healthy and fulfilling life. Wellness is more than being free from illness. It is a dynamic process of change and growth. Simply stated, we are responsible for our own well-being. We make choices every day to support this well-being or to undermine it. Make choices to move your body as much as possible; expand your social sphere; eat right; drink right; do not use tobacco, alcohol, or other addictive products; challenge your mind with positivity – take care of yourself.

The National Wellness Institute defines wellness as “a conscious, self-directed and evolving process of achieving your full potential.” The Peters family lives and epitomizes the definition of wellness. Oklahoma Senior Games supports not just health but wellness and encourages everyone to strive to achieve their full potential.

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Register at okcwalk.com You’re Invited! BETTER WITH AGE Fun Day October 13th, 9am-1pm Shoppes at NorthPark

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It has been mentioned that the siblings are competitive; that’s an understatement. In 2017, the Peters family reunion presented a perfect opportunity for Regina’s daughter, Stephanie Peters, to organize the First Peters Olympics; more than 40 family members participated in the Olympics. Tony, Terry, Carl, and Regina’s team won first place in three different events. The Peters family is an example of not just health, but wellness. Let’s all take a lesson from their playbook and truly strive for wellness.

Have you ever considered participating in Oklahoma Senior Games? What about archery, cycling, water walking, golf, line dance, golf croquet, cornhole, track & field, race walk, power walk, basketball, table tennis, pickleball, shuffleboard, swimming, bowling, and the options go on. More than 700 participants are expected at Oklahoma Senior Games being held in Bixby, El Reno, Lawton, Moore, Muskogee, Norman, Oklahoma City, Owasso, Perry, Shawnee, Tulsa, and Yukon in September-October, 2022. See you at the OKLAHOMA SENIOR GAMES! To register or find more information on OSG go to: www.OKSeniorGames.com.

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(405) 535-9987

Its Never Too Late To Live Happily Ever After.

UPCOMING EVENTS —

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2022 OKLAHOMA SENIOR GAMES SCHEDULE

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Do you enjoy the spirit of competition, the warmth of a new friend, then the 2022 Senior games is just what the doctor ordered. Join us for fun and senior fellowship.

Basketball Golf Croquet Water Walking 5K Race Walk 5K Power Walk Swimming Oklahoma State Fair Booth Cornhole Archery 5K and 10K Road Races Line Dancing Bowling Track and Field 1500 M Race and Power Walks Golf Triathlon Cycling Tennis Volleyball Pickleball Shuffleboard Table Tennis Weight Lifting Fitness Racquetball Badminton Celebration of Athletes

PICKLEBALL

Sept 3 Sept 10 1:30 Sept 10 Sept 10 Sept 10 Sept 11 Sept 15-25 Sept 17 Sept 17 Sept 17 Sept 24 Sept 24-25 Oct 1 Oct 1 Oct 1 Oct 1 Oct 8 Oct 12, 13, 14 Oct 15 Oct 21, 22, 23 Oct 22 Oct 22 Oct 29 Various Dates TBA TBA Nov 5

Santa Fe Family Life Center. OKC LaFortune Park, Tulsa Westwood Family Aquatic Center, Norman Riverside Parks, Tulsa Riverside Parks, Tulsa Westwood Family Aquatic Center, Norman Oklahoma Fair Grounds Hard Rock Hotel and Casino, Tulsa Trosper Park, OKC Perry Chamber of Commerce, Perry Oklahoma State Fair, OKC Coffee Creek Lanes, Owasso Shawnee High School, Shawnee Shawnee High School, Shawnee Muskogee Golf Club, Muskogee Lake El Reno, El Reno Fort Sill, Lawton RH 91, Tulsa Moore Community Center, Moore Life Time Athletic, OKC Bixby Community Center, Bixby Moore Community Center, Moore Kaizen Performance Center, Norman Many Locations: see OKSeniorGames.com TBA TBA The White House Mansion, Tulsa

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(405) 821-1500

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4 to our sponsor’s, veterans receive a

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For these athletes a golf cart is much better than a car, rollerblades or even a plane...FORE!

Don Hammons and Tim Gies were happy with their performance as they greeted Jack Nortz and Le Le.

no, Tulsa

rce, Perry

so awnee awnee Booth Sept 15-25 l Basketball kogee Sept 17

Grounds Sept 3 Oklahoma SeptFair 3 Santa Fe FamilySanta Life Center.

Fe Family OKCLife Center. OKC and Casino, Tulsa uet Golf Croquet Sept 10 Hard 1:30 Rock SeptHotel 10LaFortune 1:30 Park, LaFortune Tulsa Park, Tulsa Sept 17 Trosper Park, OKC alking Water Walking Sept 10 Sept 10Westwood Family Westwood Aquatic Family Center,Aquatic NormanCenter, Norman s Sept 17 Perry Chamber of Commerce, Perry Walk 5K Race Walk Sept 10 Sept 10Riverside Parks,Riverside Tulsa Parks, Tulsa Sept 24 Oklahoma State Fair, OKC r, Moore Walk5K Power Walk Sept 10 Sept 10Riverside Parks,Riverside Tulsa Parks, Tulsa Sept 24-25 Coffee Creek Lanes, Owasso gBixby Swimming Sept 11 Sept 11Westwood Family Westwood Aquatic Family Center,Aquatic NormanCenter, Norman Oct 1 Shawnee High School, Shawnee Moore ar, State Oklahoma Fair BoothState FairSept Booth 15-25 Sept 15-25 Oklahoma Fair Oklahoma Grounds Fair Grounds erNorman Walks Oct 1 Shawnee High School, Shawnee er, Cornhole Sept 17 Muskogee SeptGolf 17Hard HotelHard andRock Casino, Hotel Tulsa and Casino, Tulsa Club,Rock Muskogee eniorGames.comOct 1 ArcheryOct 1 Sept 17 Lake ElSept Trosper Park, OKC Reno,17ElTrosper Reno Park, OKC K Road 5KRaces and Oct 10K8Road Races Sept 17 Fort Sill, Sept 17 Perry Chamber Perry of Commerce, Chamber Perry of Commerce, Perry Lawton n, TulsaLine Dancing ing Fair, OKC State Fair, OKC Oct 12, 13, 14Sept 24 RH 91, Sept Tulsa24Oklahoma StateOklahoma rGames.com BowlingOct 15 Sept 24-25 24-25 Coffee CreekMoore Lanes, Coffee Owasso Creek Lanes, Owasso Moore Sept Community Center, FieldTrack and OctAthletic, 1 Shawnee Shawnee Shawnee High School, Shawnee OctField 21, 22, 23Oct 1 Life Time OKC High School, 2022 OKLAHOMA SENIOR GAMES ace and 1500 Power MOct Race Walks Oct 1Walks Oct 1 Shawnee School, Shawnee Shawnee High School, Shawnee 22 and Power Bixby Community Center,High Bixby Golf Oct 22 Oct 1 SCHEDULE 1 Muskogee Muskogee Club, Muskogee Golf Club, Muskogee Moore Oct Community Center,Golf Moore Oct 29 Performance Triathlon Oct 1 Kaizen Oct 1 Lake ElCenter, Reno,Norman ElLake RenoEl Reno, El Reno Basketball Sept 3 Santa Fe Family Life Center. OKC Various DatesOct 8 SeptMany Locations: seeSill, OKSeniorGames.com Cycling Fort LawtonFort Sill, Lawton Golf Croquet 10 1:30Oct 8 LaFortune Park, Tulsa Water Walking 1014 Oct 12, Westwood Aquatic Center, Norman TBA TBA Tennis Oct 12,Sept 13, RH 13,91, 14Family Tulsa RH 91, Tulsa 5K Race Walk Sept 10 Riverside Parks, Tulsa TBA TBA Volleyball Oct 15 Sept 10 Oct 15Riverside Moore Community Moore Center, Community Moore Center, Moore 5K Power Walk Parks, Tulsa Swimming Sept 11 White House Westwood Family Aquatic Center, Norman es Nov 5 The Mansion, Tulsa Pickleball Oct 21, 22, 23 Oct 21, Life 22, 23 Time Athletic, Life OKC Time Athletic, OKC Oklahoma State Fair Booth Sept 15-25 Oklahoma Fair Grounds Cornhole Rock Hotel and Casino,Bixby Tulsa orGames.com (405)Oct 821-1500 info@OKSeniorGames.com ard Shuffleboard 22 Sept 17 Oct 22Hard Bixby Community Center, Community Bixby Center, Bixby Archery Sept 17 Trosper Park, OKC nis Table5KTennis Oct 22Perry Moore Moore Community Moore Center, Moore and 10K Road Races Oct 22 Sept 17 ChamberCommunity of Commerce, PerryCenter, Line Dancing State Fair, OKC Kaizen fting Weight Lifting Oct 29 Sept 24 Oct 29Oklahoma Kaizen Performance Center, Performance NormanCenter, Norman Bowling Sept 24-25 Coffee Creek Lanes, Owasso Fitness Various Dates Various Many Dates Locations: Many see OKSeniorGames.com Locations: see OKSeniorGames.com Track and Field Oct 1 Shawnee High School, Shawnee 1500 M Race and Power Walks Oct 1 Shawnee High School, Shawnee all Racquetball TBA TBA TBA TBA Golf Oct 1 Muskogee Golf Club, Muskogee Triathlon El Reno, El Reno n Badminton TBA Oct 1 TBA LakeTBA TBA Cycling Oct 8 Fort Sill, Lawton on of Athletes Celebration of Athletes Nov 5 Oct 12, 13, 14Nov 5RHThe White House TheMansion, White House TulsaMansion, Tulsa Tennis 91, Tulsa

From the Spartan warriors to the Roman soldiers, men have tested their strength, stamina and sheer will.

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TO REGISTER FOR THE GAMES OR FOR MORE INFORMATION:

They pushed their bodies and themselves to the brink. Well, thank goodness we don’t live in those times anymore!!!

Do you enjoy the spirit of competition, the warmth of a new friend, then the , homaSeniorGames.com OklahomaSeniorGames.com (405) 821-1500 (405) info@OKSeniorGames.com 821-1500 info@OKSeniorGames.com 2022 Senior games is just what the www.okseniorgames.com doctor ordered. Join us for fun and info@okseniorgames.com senior fellowship.

(405) (405) 821-1500 OklahomaSeniorGames.com 821-1500 info@OKSeniorGames.com Volleyball Pickleball Shuffleboard Table Tennis Weight Lifting Fitness Racquetball Badminton Celebration of Athletes

Oct 15 Oct 21, 22, 23 Oct 22 Oct 22 Oct 29 Various Dates TBA TBA Nov 5

Moore Community Center, Moore Life Time Athletic, OKC Bixby Community Center, Bixby Moore Community Center, Moore Kaizen Performance Center, Norman Many Locations: see OKSeniorGames.com TBA TBA The White House Mansion, Tulsa

2022 OKLAHOMA SENIOR GAMES SCHEDULE Basketball Golf Croquet Water Walking 5K Race Walk 5K Power Walk Swimming Oklahoma State Fair Booth Cornhole Archery 5K and 10K Road Races Line Dancing Bowling Track and Field 1500 M Race and Power Walks Golf Triathlon Cycling Tennis Volleyball Pickleball Shuffleboard Table Tennis Weight Lifting Fitness Racquetball Badminton Celebration of Athletes

Sept 3 Sept 10 1:30 Sept 10 Sept 10 Sept 10 Sept 11 Sept 15-25 Sept 17 Sept 17 Sept 17 Sept 24 Sept 24-25 Oct 1 Oct 1 Oct 1 Oct 1 Oct 8 Oct 12, 13, 14 Oct 15 Oct 21, 22, 23 Oct 22 Oct 22 Oct 29 Various Dates TBA TBA Nov 5

Santa Fe Family Life Center. OKC LaFortune Park, Tulsa Westwood Family Aquatic Center, Norman Riverside Parks, Tulsa Riverside Parks, Tulsa Westwood Family Aquatic Center, Norman Oklahoma Fair Grounds Hard Rock Hotel and Casino, Tulsa Trosper Park, OKC Perry Chamber of Commerce, Perry Oklahoma State Fair, OKC Coffee Creek Lanes, Owasso Shawnee High School, Shawnee Shawnee High School, Shawnee Muskogee Golf Club, Muskogee Lake El Reno, El Reno Fort Sill, Lawton RH 91, Tulsa Moore Community Center, Moore Life Time Athletic, OKC Bixby Community Center, Bixby Moore Community Center, Moore Kaizen Performance Center, Norman Many Locations: see OKSeniorGames.com TBA TBA The White House Mansion, Tulsa

OklahomaSeniorGames.com (405) 821-1500 info@OKSeniorGames.com

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No matter where you are in life.

HOSPICE Health

WE’RE HERE TO HELP.

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

FREEDOM FREEDOM 16

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Issue 22

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ITS NOT ABOUT DYING...

ITS ABOUT LIVING!

HOSPICE

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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.

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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

You’re Invited! BETTER WITH AGE Fun Day October 13th, 9am-1pm Shoppes at NorthPark

17

Forever Young “I once asked an elderly man what it was like to be old and to know the majority of his life was behind him. He told me that he has been the same age his entire life. He said the voice inside of his head had never aged. He has always just been the same boy.

His mother’s son. He had always wondered when he would grow up and be an old man.

He said he watched his body age and his

faculties dull but the person he is inside never got tired. Never aged. Never changed.

Our spirits are eternal. Our souls are forever. The next time you encounter an elderly person, look at them and know they are still a child, just as you are still a child and children will always need love, attention and purpose.” ~ Author Unknown

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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.

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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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HERE TO SERVE OUR COMMUNITY

Plan Of Care An individualized plan of care is developed for each patient, identifying his/her special medical and physical needs and strengths.

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Our center’s progressive treatment program is ideal for those recovering from surgery, illness or injury.

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The transition from hospital to home is further enhanced by a nursing staff trained and experienced in both medical management and rehabilitation.

Following physician’s protocols, our professional nursing team provides medical assessment and monitoring, medication and pain management as well as rehabilitative support.

www.emeraldoklahoma.com You’re Invited! BETTER WITH AGE Fun Day October 13th, 9am-1pm Shoppes at NorthPark

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How to Plan a Groovy Baby Boomer Wedding

By Neil Johnson, and Shelley Stutchman-Johnson

“It’s easier to be killed by a terrorist than it is to find a husband over the age of 40!” This line was in the classic movie “Sleepless in Seattle.” There have been statistical polls and plenty of remarks in films and books that would make you believe this is true. However, Neil Johnson and I prove that this quote in ‘Sleepless in Seattle’ is wrong and that love and marriage are groovy at any age.

When Neil first saw me, he thought, “I’m not going to talk to her. She looks like trouble.”

MEDICARE

When I saw Neil, and we were the only two sitting at the bar, I decided to strike up a pleasant conversation. I wasn’t looking for anyone. I thought a friendly chat would make my dinner more enjoyable. Once I started talking, rather than being rude, Neil was polite and listened. For almost a year, we would talk about once a week. In March, of this year, I was diagnosed with breast cancer. According to statistical polls, I didn’t have very good odds of finding a boyfriend, much less a husband. I found both, showing that we groovy baby boomers defy all odds. Always have, always will. A great friendship developed, a romance blossomed, and love won. On June 17th, 2022, at age seventy-one and sixtyseven, we married and had a groovy wedding.

What is a groovy wedding, you may be asking? A groovy wedding is one with a heart of peace and love, the music’s beat, and the guests’ hippie soul.

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Neil wore a colorful multi-colored tie-dye shirt, shorts, and tennis shoes. I wore a boho white sun dress, white feathers in my hair for the veil, white lace sandals, and a colorful bouquet tied with ribbons by our daughters.

A diamond peace necklace adorned my neck. We asked our guests to wear tie-dyed T-Shirts, shorts, miniskirts, or anything that made them feel groovy. All loved the dress code. Everyone was feeling their inner hippie all evening. Free to be who you want to be.

We worked with the staff at the Edmond Convention Center and the Hilton Garden Inn to throw this groovy event. Our planner Sherri Banister was fun and professional. She helped us plan many of the details to make the wedding groovy.

We decided not to splurge on decorations so we could treat our friends to an open bar and a bountiful buffet. Our centerpieces were bright frosted cupcakes with peace symbols and placed on vibrantly colored cardboard cupcake holders. A psychedelic peace symbol necklace was our gift to each of our guests. Tinted tiedyed napkins gave a pop of color to the white tablecloths, and we found some groovy decorations at the dollar tree to add to the tables.

The most important thing at a groovy wedding is the music. Find a great DJ. We found Jeff Aynes, better known as Jammin’ Jeff. We didn’t realize it, but Jeff has done so many weddings; he gives you brilliant tips on making

Y o u ’ r e I Yn ov iut’er de ! I nBv Ei tTeTdE !R BWEI T THE RA GWE I TF H u n A DG aE y F Ou cn t Do ba ey r O1 c3ttohb, e9r a1m3 -t 1hp, m9 aSmh -o1pppme sS ah to pNpoer st haPt a Nr ko r t h P a r k

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everything flow. Going with our groovy theme, “Feelin Groovy” is the song we used as my sister Willow LaMunyon, walked me, or should I say, skipped me down the aisle.

We didn’t want any family or friends having to bear the burden of taking photographs so that they could enjoy the evening to their fullest. We hired the best photographer ever, Diana Bristol.

Neil and I danced our first dance as man and wife to the song, “A Groovy Kind of Love.” For the rest of the night, Jeff played songs from the ‘60s and ‘70s. During this era, the best music ever played was created.

The dance floor stayed full as the night rocked on.

The melodies brought back many memories of our peace, love, and rock & roll youth. If you are planning a groovy event and need the perfect DJ, you can reach Jeff at 405.204.6961.

Diana is full of creative ideas and makes picture-taking fun. She used the backdrop of a groovy cardboard van for many of our pictures. Diana can be reached at 405.640.2014.

The owner of Caregiver Magazine, LaShanya Nash, her Dir. of Community Outreach, Lisa Sydnor, and her advertising sales representative Patty Reeves were at this wedding feeling groovy themselves.

Having a groovy wedding is all about acting your spirit, not your age.

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Tom Cruise is sixty years old. He is one of us. A baby boomer with the fire still in his belly to live life to the fullest. In his new movie, Top Gun: Maverick, the years have matured Tom, making his face even more expressive and handsome.

My favorite scene in the movie is when Tom Cruise opens the door to head out of the office of his superior officer. Rear Admiral, Hammer, said to Tom, “The end is inevitable, Maverick. Your kind is headed for extinction. “ Tom slowly turned around to face the officer, that charming Cruise smile on his face, and answered, “Maybe so, sir. But not today.”

From the male perspective, Neil described Top Gun: Maverick as a new and tremendously improved sequel to the original, making it his all-time favorite action movie.

Movie Spotlight Groovy Films for Seniors Maverick Review by Shelley Stutchman-Johnson and Neil Johnson

The jets, the hold-your-breath maneuvers, and the character development put this film in unparalleled greats.

Val Kilmer, age 62, as Iceman, is back. Jennifer Connelly, age 52, is the love interest, and Ed Harris plays Hammer at age 71. Bravo to Top Gun: Maverick for making this an actual intergenerational movie and giving the lead to our fellow Baby Boomer, Tom Cruise.

To enhance your pleasure of this film, we suggest watching the original Top Gun first, if you haven’t seen it, to fully appreciate what Top Gun: Maverick brings to the screen.

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For more information, Please Call (405) 285-5983 Y o u ’ r e I n vYiot ue ’dr!e IBnEvTi Tt eE dR ! WBI TE HT T AE R G EWFI uT nH DAaGyE OF cutno bDeary 1 O3 ct ht o, b9earm1 -31 tphm, 9S ah m o p- 1ppems aSth oNpopr et hs Paatr kN o r t h P a r k

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

We specialize in care for seniors.

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Doctors who actually spend time with you.

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

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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.

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CAREGIVERS O R N E R By Kathy Cocks, RN Change Is Inevitable I called Mom. “Hi,” I said. “How are you doing?”

She replied “I have to choose between eating and breathing. This life is not worth living. I feel this darkness coming over me.”

Mom was 77 years old and had outlived what the doctors thought she would with her heart only functioning at 16 percent for the last 17 years.

Depression and anxiety haunted my whole life as I struggled to manage mental health issues. Not my mom. She was strong-willed. She refused to use a walker even though she had fallen in rose bushes and scratched up her arms. Now I heard a vulnerability in her voice and felt helpless living so far away. She struggled with anxiety when Dad left the house. Fear enveloped her and she did not want to be left alone.

My sister-in-law would just show up and sit with mom.

My mom who insisted on organizing every detail of all our family events now struggled to plan her next meal.

No matter how strong a person is if they live long enough something will fail in their body. Now I am watching my 90 year Dad, who spent his retirement years building hundreds of habitat homes for 26

CAREGIVER Magazine

vulnerable populations, decline physically. He hauled 300-pound rocks out of his creek to build walkways, patio walls, and porches for family and friends. He cut tiles to make beautiful backsplashes for these low-income homes. Now he struggles to walk as his knees hurt and his balance is off. He is depending on us kids to find his next living place and sort through his houseful of belongings especially his tools which gave him so much joy.

Countless times I have talked to adult children as tears welled up in their eyes to see their parents’ fragility.

Like so many others I wish I could stop the march of time. One thing we know, relationships are constantly changing. When we were teenagers, we thought our parents were stupid. I remember my secret eye rolls at their fashion sense or the movies they wanted to watch. Then as young adults, we called our parents frequently as we navigated picking a mate, buying a house, or just how to change the stopper in a toilet.

Along the way, it becomes hopefully a respectful relationship between two healthy adults.

Then they began to struggle with technology and societal changes. Next, they struggle with maintaining the lawn and the house. More and more we are helping them. For many, it is an emotional journey, as the relationship is again changing. Many times we want to come in and fix things but our schedule is full.

Yet our parents are still adults, and they need our help, but they do not want us taking over control.

During this phase, it is important to learn about the aging process to interact beneficially with our loved ones. Older people have trouble learning new technology. I have seen young people go up to a computer and push three buttons and say, “look how easy that is”. The senior adult has no idea what was just done. Older adults also have trouble multitasking. It is important to approach one topic at a time. Do not talk to your parents about their will and the need to find a new place to live all at once.

That is overwhelming for them.

Remember this new phase that you are in with your parents is a learning process—a time of trials and errors. Discouragement will probably creep up on you

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like vines encircling a building, but we must not give up keeping communication open with our parents.

Even though this time of change as our parents age can be difficult, we can walk through this process with a few principles. Unless our parents have dementia, it is important to treat them as adults. Have respectful conversations. One gentleman was not taking a shower and the kids thought it was because he did not care about his hygiene. When I asked, he stated it was so hard to take a shower and he was so exhausted afterward. I recommended the family purchase a shower chair and a handheld shower wand to make showering easier and enjoyable. Ask questions. I also found that when we have those difficult conversations it is not usually one and done. For instance, if the loved one needs to move into a simpler home or apartment because it is easier to maintain those may be conversations that are had over a year.

Ultimately, it is their decision where to live. I remember talking to one couple almost two years because their big sprawling house with 5 acres

Kathy Cocks, RN www.kathysconsulting.com

405-202-0708 info@kathysconsulting.com

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in the country was falling apart. They resisted moving because that was too much change. Eventually, though, they became overwhelmed and then realized they needed a simpler lifestyle and made the move. If the children had made them move before they were ready, there would have been bad feelings.

Even though we want to give our parents autonomy, we do need to be alert to warning signs that they are not able to care for themselves or have an underlying illness.

Are their clothes falling off? This is a sign of weight loss and many children discover parents have been eating only saltine crackers because they have forgotten how to cook. Do they smell? They may have trouble cleaning themselves appropriately. Are they confused, have mood swings, or personality changes? All of these signs warrant further investigation and should be evaluated by their doctor.

Lastly, ask for help for yourselves or assistance helping your parent. Are you trying to do this job alone? Look for community resources, paid resources, and friends to help out. Seek out professional help if dealing with an aging loved one is affecting your mental or physical health. One gentleman was taking care of his wife who was rapidly declining, and they could not agree on anything and were threatening to get divorced. Eventually, the husband went to counseling and learned ways to communicate more effectively with his wife. This did not ease all the problems, but it gave him the tools to address problems and deal with them.

For those of us dealing with the challenges of aging parents, we had the privilege to have many years of experiences with them before they slowed down. Yet now as we enter a new phase it too can be rewarding.

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Thank You for your service!

Now let us be in service to you...

7 State Veterans Homes

Mental Health Support & Suicide Prevention

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Call us today!

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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.

1. Routine. “Get up at the same time each day. Get dressed. Give yourself at least one accomplishable goal to complete each day.”

2. Take care of yourself. The mind-body connection is essential. “Engage in self-care,” Vannorsdall advises.

“Prioritize good sleep, good nutrition, fresh air and exercise. Find a safe way to socialize and stay connected with friends and family.”

3. Be careful with drugs and alcohol. “Substance overuse is a risk among people who have anxiety and depression.”

PEOPLE NEED PEOPLE Before the COVID-19 quarantine, loneliness, lack of socialization and isolation were pressing issues. After the quarantine, loneliness, lack of socialization, and being isolated for so long has created an epidemic of depression. Many who had never previously experienced depression have admitted to not understanding how incapacitating and demoralizing it is. Suicide due to depression and isolation is a major concern post-quarantine.

Research by Tracy D Vannorsdall, Ph.D., published on February 14, 2022, by Johns Hopkins Medicine listed four ways to combat depression and anxiety.

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4. Get help: It’s easier than ever with mental health telemedicine. If you or someone you love has symptoms of anxiety or depression, help is available. In addition to in-person counseling, new options can put therapy as close as your phone or laptop.

Recreation and senior centers have added to the problem by not opening since the lifting of the quarantine. Some open only to deliver boxed lunches to those who come to the centers and close immediately. There are no programs. In a time of critical need, several nonprofit organizations have eliminated senior programs.

All these circumstances complicate and intensify the situation. How can the general public help and be a part of the solution? Do you have programs in your church or your neighborhood associations you can participate in?

Do social clubs, community centers, libraries or recreation facilities near you have programs? There is a great need.

And, a great opportunity to serve – think outside the box!

Could your church open the doors outside of normal worship service - even once a week – to a morning or afternoon of music, games, conversation, and exercise?

Send the buses to pick up anyone in the neighborhood who wants to participate and transport them to the Issue 22

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facility. Recruit volunteers to organize, monitor and lead activities.

How about a friendship call chain? Each volunteer is assigned a specific number of people to call weekly and check in on them; chat for a time; and, share opportunities to get out of the house.

There are many things to do in Oklahoma; some are free or at a minimal cost. Check out the Oklahoma City Calendar of Events at www.OKC.gov, Scissortail Park Calendar at www.scissortailpark.org for more fun visit one of the Oklahoma City Senior Wellness Centers at: www.okc.gov/government/maps-3. Oklahoma is a great state and many adventures await you at www. travelok.com click on the event calendar and find great ways to make new friends or enjoy events with friends and family.

Participate in the programs available through the Oklahoma City Parks & Recreation Department.

Check out Will Rogers Senior Center or sign up for weekly emails. You will learn of art shows, festivals, music, car shows, antiquing, vintage sales, and many more opportunities to enjoy Oklahoma City and throughout Oklahoma!

Here’s the thing about being isolated – you must be proactive in ending your isolation. Call a friend, neighbor, family or church member. Go to your Neighborhood Association meetings, church, activities

Take charge of your life. Don’t sit around complaining about what you don’t have; take steps to change. Every morning, get up and get dressed to get out of the house; then, when possible get out of the house. Sometimes I just sit on the front porch. People wave as they walk/ drive by and I wave back. Take the initiative, wave first! Speak to your neighbors. Take a walk in your neighborhood. Speak to everyone you see; most will speak, and many will engage in a short conversation. If you do this regularly, you will soon have new friends, and feel better because you exercised and you will have that one thing that will brighten the day for many, including you, a S-M-I-L-E. “Smile and the world smiles with you” is truer than you might believe.

Mark your calendar for these upcoming FREE events: the 45th annual Senior Day at the OK State Fair, Wednesday, September 21st, 10am - 7pm, (find more information on p. 42 & 43). Our next BETTER WITH AGE Fun Day is October 13th, 9am - 1pm at the Shoppes at NorthPark (find more information on p. 32)

BE A HERO

e Sweet Tou h T c h

est.

*NO CAPE NEEDED

h

Blessed W it

centers, TRIAD (OK City Police Dept.), or SALT (OK County Sheriff’s Office) meetings. Go to anything that puts you in contact with PEOPLE. Barbara Streisand’s famous song, “People”, conveys this message best, “People, People who need people, Are the luckiest people in the world;” that’s the truth! Maybe you don’t feel lucky, but you are here and you have the power to change your own environment.

Volunteer your time!

405.698.1313 Kevin Y., Volunteer Driver A proud partner of:

► 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!

Contact us today to join our team!

khloeskonfections.com orders@khloeskonfections.com

33 West 15th St., Edmond, OK 73013

Become a volunteer driver with the RSVP of Central Oklahoma Provide-A-Ride Team!

405-605-3110

WWW.RSVPOKC.ORG

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FALL FUN AWAITS!

By LaShanya Nash

With two Fun Days completed and one more Fun Day on the horizon, 2022 has definitely been an exciting and Fun year! We had this year’s second BETTER WITH AGE Fun Day on May 12th. The energy and positivity felt throughout the Shoppes at NorthPark, were inspirational. My goal since the beginning, in the spring of 2019, of Better With Age Fun Days, is to entertain, educate and encourage all who attend.

More than 900 attendees were impressed and educated by 76 enthusiastic exhibitors. The upcoming Fun Day will be the best yet with over 95 exhibitors bringing over 100 door prizes for you to win. They also provide at no cost, blood pressure checks, balance tests, vision exams, and the recycling of used medical equipment.

Tom Nix, performer extraordinaire, will be playing the keyboards and singing, topping it off with audience participation! The legendary Oklahoma singer Cathy Castello will perform our opening ceremony Patriotic medley. DJ Jammin Jeff Aynes, another superb talent will emcee all while playing tunes that make the day simply flow by! OHAI instructors always do a great job showing us how to add exercise into our day and that tradition continues. The lovely ladies of the “Not Just Country Line Dancers” will dance and teach the more adventurous attendees and exhibitors a few new steps. The Oklahoma Senior Follies add their voices to the day. Along with various live musicians.

Many thanks to our sponsors: Spanish Cove, Archwell Health, Compass Sr. Living Solutions, and OKALA (Oklahoma Assisted Living Association).

Courtesy of Spanish Cove and Archwell Health who are the food and beverage sponsors a great variety of complementary beverages, food items and snacks will be available, including hot breakfast biscuits, fresh fruit, yogurt, granola bars and more. Providing everyone options for nourishment for the entire event.

It will be fun, informative and high-energy! Add the October 13th Better With Age Fun Day to your calendars and join us at the Shoppes at NorthPark, 121st & North May Ave. from 9am - 1pm. Great fun and surprises await!

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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.

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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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C MMUNITY HEARTBEAT

By Lisa Sydnor

Lack Of Affordable Housing: Brace for Impact This is the second in a series of articles on low-income and affordable housing. Many become and remain homeless because they cannot maintain their housing and they cannot find affordable housing.

Let’s look at what is “affordable.” A single mom with two children works a 40-hour week at $10 per hour. That is $400 a week or $1733 monthly (before taxes) or approximately $1386; after taxes @20%. The rule of thumb is you must make three times the rent to qualify. You qualify for a $575 property. Where do you find a clean, livable, safe, two-bedroom rental unit for $575? Oh but wait, you must also have a deposit equal to the first month’s rent and a deposit on every utility. Just for this exercise let’s say the utility deposit is $50 each for water, electricity and gas. Income $1386; Move-in $1300 rent/deposit & $150 utility deposits = $1450. How do you “save” enough to move into a rental unit? Where do you live in the interim? Is this sustainable? It isn’t just finding a place to live; it must be financially sustainable.

Think of a snowball a small child makes. Now visualize rolling it down Pikes Peak, seeing it pick up speed and volume, crushing everything in its path. That’s homelessness. Many are being crushed in its path and the devastation left behind impacts everyone.

On July 8, 2022, the Oklahoman reported: “The number of evictions has risen by up to 56% above average in the past few months, and has been trending upward since the end of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s eviction moratorium in August 2021, according to data provided by the Legal Services Corp.”

One could make the correlation that with this upsurge in evictions, homelessness will increase. With more than 300 evictions a day, 1500 a week, 6,000 plus in a month … Where do these families and individuals 36

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find shelter? Perhaps some will live with family, and friends, in their cars, or live in squalor, fear, on the street. According to the World Population Review, Oklahoma has fewer than 4000 homeless, that number will double or triple if we can’t stem the tide of evictions.

What can we, as a community, do to stem the advancement of that snowball? What can we, as individuals, do? Where do we start? I don’t know. There are committees and task forces working on the affordable housing issue. These plans provide more affordable housing options in 2-5 years, which is a case of too little too late. There is a big difference between affordable housing and truly affordable housing. Is it affordable especially for our seniors living on a finite budget with no way to supplement their income? If the rent is $695 month but you only receive $960 a month in social security, that isn’t affordable or secure. How do we bring all these ideas together? Discussing ideas isn’t enough. What do we, the general public, do now? Someone in this audience has an idea, a plan, a way for everyone to help and make a positive, lasting impact now, not in 2-5 years. If you know of or have any suggestions or possible solutions we want to hear from you, please call 405-314-7840.

IMAGINE ALL YOUR RELOCATION PIECES COMING TOGETHER SEAMLESSLY

“

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

“

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 - Frances Baker Connie to sell my home, and, also helped me in purchasing my current Dan Straughn, Executive Director of The Homeless home.

She has a heart for her clients Alliance provided the following insight. and invaluable expertise inA the entireFOR ALL SEASONS OF LIFE: REALTOR “When discussing the issue of homelessness, it’s important to remember that people experiencing homelessness process!

Thank are you, Connie!

Connie@HomesteadRealtyco.com | 405.613.6890 | Connie.HomesteadRealtyco.com

people just like you and me. They are someone’s child, - Frances Baker someone’s friend, someone’s former classmate. Homelessness is just a temporary living situation. It does not define who someone is.

I am forever grateful to have had Connie to

It doesn’t always look like the stereotype you might envision sell my home, and, also helped me in purchasA REALTOR FOR ALL SEASONS OF LIFE: or see standing on the corner. There are many people ing my current home. She has a heart for her experiencing homelessness Connie@HomesteadRealtyco.com in our community who you don’t | 405.613.6890 | Connie.HomesteadRealtyco.com clients and invaluable expertise in the entire see because they are staying in shelters, or maybe you do see process! Thank you, Connie! them – at work, school, scanning your groceries at the store, - Frances Baker waiting on you at a restaurant – and you don’t know they are living without a home. Homelessness affects people of all ages, races and genders.

FOR A FREE CONSULTATION CALL

And there is something everyone can do to help our neighbors without a home. Last year, the Homeless Alliance helped house 858 people. And we’re not the only organization working to help people end their homelessness. But the need in this community is greater than any of our nonprofits can meet.”

For information on the Homeless Alliance or how you can help: call 405-415-1410 or online homelessalliance.org

RESOURCE GUIDE ON NEXT PAGE

®

405.613.6890

Homestead & Co Realty 2601 Kelley Pointe Pkwy, Ste 201 Edmond, OK 73012 Cell: 405.613.6890

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RESOURCE GUIDE

With the addition of a section for resources, the goal is for our readers to have essential services and IMMEDIATE NEED information at their fingertips.

211 COMMUNITY RESOURCES Oklahoma 2-1-1 Resource Directory (navigateresources.net) Go online to 2 1 1 or call 405 840-9396 or toll-free 877-362-1606.

988 MENTAL HEALTH 988 is a direct line to trained behavioral health professionals.

Food pantries; rental assistance; utility assistance, counseling; respite; support groups; back-to-school; plus many other services.

AREAWIDE AGING AGENCY Areawide Aging Agency - Oklahoma City | Senior Assistance 4101 Perimeter Center Dr, Ste 310 405-942-8500 Serves anyone 60 and over: Caregiver Support; Caregiver Respite; Health & Wellness; Legal; Nutrition; Transportation COMMUNITY ACTION AGENCY www.caaofokc.org 405-232-0199 | execdir@caaofokc.org Emergency; Early childhood; Community; Financial; Housing

PAY LESS

D-DENT D-DENT (d-dentok.org) 405-424-8092 or 800-522-9510 Email: healthysmiles@d-dentok.org Restorative full-mouth dental care; free of charge DAILY LIVING CENTERS www.dlcok,org 3000 N. Rockwell Ave 405-233-3531 email: Amanda@dlokc.org Adult Day Care; transportation EMSA AND OKC UTILITIES Home - EMSA (emsaonline.com) Phone: EMSA 405-297-9700 EMSACares – Join through EMSA or in Oklahoma City add $3.65 to monthly water bill

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?

Human Services

Jean Kidd

Teresa Ryan

Mary Ann Briscoe

Marilyn Conley

Sue Grant

Debra Shadid

Elizabeth.Kidd@okdhs.org (405) 630-9715 MaryAnn.Briscoe@okdhs.org (405) 640-1002 Sgrant@incog.org (918) 579-9477

Anita.CTR.Ryan@okdhs.org (405) 642-1538 Marilyn.CTR.Conley@okdhs.org (405) 982-1914 Debra.CTR.Shadid@okdhs.org (405) 212-7910

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

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FOOD PANTRIES Go online to 2 1 1 and enter zip code for food pantries in your zip code or text your zip code to 898-211 NANA’S CLOSET Nana’s Closet | Helping Grandparents Raise Grandkids (nanasclosetokc.org) Phone: 405-735-7022 Email: nanasclosetokc@yahoo.com Grandparents/family raising children; clothing, some household items NICOA www.nicoa.org Phone: 405-951-9240 Email: tharjo@nicoa.org job training; job placement OKCARES www.okcares.org 405-271-2710 | info@okcares.org Respite for caregivers; Resource Directory; Support Groups PET FOOD PANTRY Pet Food Pantry of Oklahoma (petfoodpantryokc.org) 405-6642858 | info@petfoodpantryokc.org Free pet food for 63+ or Veterans; spay or neuter; free or low cost vaccinations

RSVP www.rsvp.org Phone: 405-605-3110 Email: beth.patterson@rsvpokc.org Transportation REGIONAL FOOD BANK OF OKLAHOMA Phone: 405-972-1111 Email: Info@rfbo.org Supplemental Commodities; f ood pantries; food SOONER SUCCESS SoonerSuccess.ouhsc.edu Phone: 405-271-2710 Email: Sooner-success@ouhsc.edu Health care; Lifespan; Respite vouchers SUICIDE PREVENTION 1-800-273-talk or Lifeline Crisis Chat is available for those needing support Lifeline is available 24/7 UTILITY ASSISTANCE Call your provider.

Ask for assistance.

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MEDICARE’S ANNUAL ENROLLMENT PERIOD Four Simple Tips to Help You Prepare Choosing the right healthcare plan is increasingly important as you get older. Around 50% of all the calls we receive to CAREGIVER Magazine each year are on medicare insurance plans or dissatisfaction with selected plans. It is summer and you may be wondering why we are writing about open enrollment. But fall is right around the corner and that means Medicare’s annual enrollment period.

Know The Dates With the hustle and bustle of daily life, it’s easy to forget when you’re supposed to do what with your Medicare plan. “Open enrollment dates are the same every year, so mark your calendar. Here’s how it works: New plans get released on October 1, October 15 is the first day you can make a change to your plan, and December 7 is the deadline to make a selection. Don’t wait until the last day to get it done. If you do, you might not get your ID card until well into February. Start your research early and make an educated, informed decision.” Medicare’s annual enrollment, or annual election period, starts October 15 and runs to December 7.

Look Out For Your ANOC “Every year, insurance companies have to send their members a Plan Annual Notice of Change, or ANOC, which outlines plan changes for the coming year. This comes by U.S. mail or e-mail, and it can easily be mistaken for junk or land in your spam folder. Keep an eye out for it, and when you get it, read it thoroughly. Possible changes could include your insurance company raising your co-pay, changing your premium, no longer covering your doctor, and including or excluding extras like dental, vision and hearing coverage. Your plan might also be terminated entirely, it’s rare, but it can happen.”

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Work With A Broker “A Medicare broker represents multiple insurance companies and can help you compare and contrast plans, find the best one for you, then enroll you in the option you choose. This service is free to you, and it can be helpful to work with an experienced broker since many of the Medicare plans can look very similar at first glance; experts will help ensure you do not make a mistake. When you work with a broker, you avoid some of the stress.”

Be Ready With The Right Questions “Before you start working with a broker, take the time to sit down and write out everything you want and need in a healthcare plan. For example, make a list of the doctors you need to see and the hospitals you regularly go to.

Write out all the medications you take that you need to be covered. Then have that list handy when you talk with the broker. The broker will be able to help you zero in on a plan that covers your doctors, hospitals, and all of your drugs. In addition, you’ll learn which plans include extras, like vision and dental, if you need them. Arming yourself in advance with a wants-and-needs list, as well as all your questions, will help you keep your conversation with the broker focused and time-efficient.”

Don’t do this over the phone, unless you have worked with your trusted broker for many years and are 100% confident something as important as your healthcare insurance choices can be conducted over the phone.

My best advice schedule a time to meet in person with your broker.

The full article can be found in Forbes, “Five Tips For Preparing For Medicare’s Annual Enrollment Period”, July, 15th 2022 author, Robert W. Bache

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45 YEARS OF Combined Experience

Preserving your health, wealth, and the freedom to live life the way you choose!

EUNICE EUNICE KHOURY KHOURY

Host of of Host Well Preserved Preserved Well Radio Show Show Radio on KTOK KTOK on

4 Medicare Options 4 Long-Term Care 4 Retirement Options 4 Life Insurance Make Your Appointment TODAY! Make Your Appointment TODAY!

405.848.5790 405.848.5790 Before Before

4800 N. Mayfair Dr. • OKC, OK, 73112 | www.wellpreser vedadvisor y.com 4800 N. Mayfair Dr. • OKC, OK, 73112 | www.wellpreser vedadvisor y.com

You’re Invited! BETTER WITH AGE Fun Day October 13th, 9am-1pm Shoppes at NorthPark

After After

41

By Charles Lillard, Oklahoma County Extension Master Gardener

CONTAINER GARDENING Container gardening is a great choice for caregivers.

We are busy and the summer heat is bearing down on us. However, you don’t have to have an excuse to use containers. They have lots of advantages. Even those of us who garden outside find places where containers are the best choice. One of the advantages is that you can place them wherever you want. We use containers for house plants and to add to our landscape. When using them outside, we can bring them in for storage or protection. Inside you must have a container but outside containers give you lots of flexibility.

The container itself adds color to your interior or your landscape. Think of all the advantages of container gardening. Containers provide a protected environment.

You can provide the best soil. You can give them just the right amount of water. You feed them when they need it. The wind doesn’t have to be a factor. You put them where they get the prescribed amount of sun. All of these factors make container gardening a great choice.

Whether you are a gardening pro or just starting, you can’t go wrong using containers.

What do you put in containers? The answer is anything you want to grow. Perhaps you have heard of the design method of “thriller, filler, and spiller”? A thriller is generally taller or showier. I like to use grasses or caladiums. A filler is a plant that is not as tall but has a spreading growth habit. Begonias, impatience, marigolds, and coral bells would be examples of fillers.

A spiller is a plant that grows over the side of the container. Examples of spiller are ivy, money wart, sweet potato, and asparagus fern. This design method does make for interest in your container, but it isn’t your only choice.

Many gardeners have containers with one color or one plant. Containers can grow flowers, vegetables, 42

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shrubs, or succulents. You should always consider plant requirements when using containers. Potting mix is recommended over potting soil. Potting soil includes actual soil from the ground and will be heavy and stay wet. Potting mixes are lighter and are best for containers. The size of the pot to some extent depends on the plant. Tomatoes need depth of soil while succulents need very little depth.

Watering needs differ from plant to plant as well as light needs. Check the label on plants to see if it is sun or shadeloving. When planting several plants in one container, make sure they have similar needs.

Containers do not have to be expensive. There are attractive plastic and composite containers available. If the weight of the container is a consideration, check out the manmade products that save our backs. One thing to check is the drain hole in the bottom. If there is not a drainage hole you will need to drill one. If the pot is large you should consider putting lightweight filler in the bottom.

Plastic bottles take up space and take away from the weight.

Different plants require different depths so make sure and give the root system of your plants room. Another trick I have learned is to use a coffee filter to cover the drainage hole while filling the pot with the medium. Container gardening doesn’t require a lot of our time but it gives us the beauty of nature that we enjoy.

Charles Lillard is an Oklahoma County Extension Master Gardener at the OSU Extension Center you can reach him at 405-713-1125.

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Remember When...

By Angela Blake

Remember when You spent the entire day with your siblings and didn’t have time to argue with each other ?

Remember when You couldn’t wait to fill up on your favorite fair foods like fresh cotton candy and foot-long corn dogs?

Remember when You, your mom, your aunts and even the neighbor ladies competed to see who made the best jelly of the season?

44 Magazine CAREGIVER Magazine 4 4 CAREGIVER

22 IssueIssue 22

CaregiverOklahoma.com CaregiverOklahoma.com

We had fun at the FAIR! Remember when Your parents would drop you and your friends off so you could spend the whole day wandering around the fair?

Remember when You thought you were so big because you could go on a ride all by yourself?

Remember when Kids from all over the county showed up with big smiles and even bigger livestock to compete for top honors?

Y o u ’ r e I Yn ov ui t’er ed ! I nBv Ei tTeTdE !R BWEI TT THE RA GWE I TF H u nA DG aE y F Ou nc t Do ba ey r O1c3ttohb, e9r a1m3 -t 1hp, m9 aSmh -o1pppme sS ha to pNpoerst haPt a Nr ko r t h P a r k

445 5

45TH ANNUAL

SENIOR D AY

Energized by

Wednesday, September 21

Free admission for Seniors 55+ (proof of age required)

SCHEDULE OF ACTIVITIES EXHIBITORS, PHOTO BOOTH & FREE HEALTH SCREENINGS .

SCREENINGS . . . . . . . 10 a .m . - 7 p .m .

DOOR PRIZES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Session 1: 10 a .m . - 1 p .m .

Session 2: 1 - 3:30 p .m .

Session 3: 3:30 - 6 p .m .

OUT & ABOUT: SPACE WALK . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 a .m . - 2 p .m .

TAI CHI . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10:05 a .m . & 4:10 p .m .

JUMPIN JUPITER . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10:25 a .m .

THE OKIE STOMPERS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10:40 a .m . & 2:00 p .m .

STARDUST . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11:10 a .m .

STARDUST PUPPIES OF PENZANCE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11:40 a .m .

YMCA COMMUNITY LINE DANCERS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12:05 p .m .

LOVE YOU TO THE MOON AND BACK COUPLES CHALLENGE . . . 12 .35 p .m .

TO INFINITY AND BEYOND . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1:05 p .m .

IT’S NOT ROCKET SCIENCE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1:35 p .m .

REACH FOR THE STARS GAME SHOW . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2:30 p .m .

VOCAL SOUNDS OF OKLAHOMA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4:35 p .m .

PROFESSOR PULSAR’S TRIVIA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4:55 p .m .

ELVIS VISITS THE MOON . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5:30 p .m .

OH MY STARS! . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 p .m .

ASTRONAUT’S LINE DANCE LESSONS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6:10 p .m .

SHAWN KLUSH - TRIBUTE TO ELVIS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7:30 p .m .

Chickasaw Country Entertainment Stage

For more detailed information visit the Senior Day page on the Oklahoma State Fair website .

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C H E C K O U T W H AT ’ S G O I N G O N AT T H E M O O N !

C H E C K O U T W H AT ’ S G O I N G O N AT T H E M O O N !

FREE HEALTH SCREENINGS • Blood Pressure Screenings FREE HEALTH SCREENINGS

by Bellevue Health & Rehab • Center Blood Pressure Screenings

by Bellevue Health & Rehab • Blood Sugar Screenings Center

by Synergy Home Care • Blood Sugar Screenings • Depression & Memory Screenings

by Synergy Home Care

by Autumn Life Center for Geriatric • Behavioral DepressionHealth & Memory Screenings

by Autumn Life Center for Geriatric • Diabetic Foot Screenings Behavioral Health

by Brookdale Senior Living • Diabetic Foot Screenings SENIOR HEALTH AND RECREATION EXHIBITORS

by Brookdale Senior Living

Diabetic Foot Screenings

by Oklahoma Foot & Ankle • Diabetic Foot Screenings • Flu Shots, Pneumonia and B12

by Oklahoma Foot & Ankle

by Total Wellness • Flu-Shots, andforB12 A cost Pneumonia will be incurred all shots

by Total - You Wellness must have your insurance card in •

- hand A costif will be incurred foryour all shots insurance covers shots!

- You must have your insurance card in • Vision Screenings hand if insurance covers your shots!

by Bridges Health • Vision Screenings

by Bridges Health

Oklahoma ABLE Alzheimer’s Association SENIOR HEALTH Come one, come all AND and RECREATION join us for ourEXHIBITORS 45th Annual Oklahoma State Tech Fair Senior Day on Oklahoma Foot & Ankle Autumn Life Center for Geriatric Behavioral Health Wednesday, 21. All seniors, 55+, are admitted Oklahoma to the FairABLE FREE on this day.

Tech Alzheimer’sSept.

Association Osher Lifelong Learning Institiue Bellevue Health & Rehabilitation Center (Proof of age, Oklahoma Foot & Ankle Autumn Life required) Center for Geriatric Behavioral Health

Parkinson Foundation of Oklahoma Brookdale Senior Living Osher Lifelong Learning Institiue Health TIPS Bellevue FOR THE DAY & Rehabilitation Center Pioneer Library System Bridges Health • AllBrookdale Senior Day activities start or are in the Special Events Area Foundation of Oklahoma Senior Living(except The Elvis Extravaganza)Parkinson Poison Control Caregiver Magazine located at the south end of the MODERN LIVING BUILDING, and will be held from 10 a.m. to 7 Pioneer Library System Bridges Health Service Group of Oklahoma Complete Home Health & Hospice p.m.

Enter at gates 1, 2, 6, or 10 and catch one of the free trams which begin running at 10 a.m.

Poison Control Caregiver Magazine Sunbeam FamilyBlvd Services ○ DHS Ask Trams to stop at Gate 3 or by the fountain on General Pershing to drop you off as Service Group of Oklahoma Complete Home Health & Hospice they the closest drop-off& points to Inc. the building.

Synergy Home Care Firstare Choice Home Health Hospice Sunbeam Family DHS and manual wheelchairs are available to rent inside • Electric 1/2, 6 Services & 9, while supplies last TotalGates Wellness Hearing Loss Association of America Synergy Home Care First Choice Home Health & Hospice Inc. • FREE coffee and snacks at 10:00Program a.m. until GONE. Be TRIAD early!

Integris Advanced Care Planning Hearing Association of America SnacksLoss hosted

by Bellevue Health & Rehab Center Total Wellness Vitality Living Villiage Metropolitan Library System TRIAD Program • AllIntegris exhibitAdvanced buildings Care openPlanning at 10 a.m.

Vitality Living Villiage Metropolitan Library System REGISTRATION will be on Senior Day and is needed for the following: DOOR PRIZES • (Registration: Door Prizes: 3 Sessions - 10 a.m.

1 p.m., 1 p.m.-2:3:30 p.m., 3:30p.m.

- 6 p.m.

Session 1: 10 a.m - 1-p.m., Session 1 p.m.

- 3:30 & Session 3: 3:30 - 6 p.m.)

• DOOR Out &PRIZES About: Space Walk: 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.

(Registration: Session 10Back a.m 1 p.m., Session 2: one 110 p.m.

- 3:30 p.m. & donated Sessiongifts.

3: 3:30 - 6 p.m.)

• Pick Love the Moon and Challenge: -of11:30 a.m. upYou yourtoticket at the 1: prize table-Couples for a chance to win many exciting There multiple the- 11 morning, • will Tobe Infinity anddrawings Beyond:in10 a.m. the early afternoon and then again during the late Pick up your ticket at the prize table for chance toafter win the oneend of many exciting donated gifts.

There Each session’s be adiscarded of their respective time.

So be sure you • afternoon.

It’s Not Rocket Science:tickets 12:30 will - 1:30 p.m. will be multiple drawings in the morning, the early afternoon and then again during the late forStars: both afternoon door prize sessions. Winners will be announced over our loud speaker.

• register Reachagain for the 2 - 2:30 p.m. afternoon. tickets will besession. discarded after the end of At their So be the Each winner during each Special Notice: therespective end of thetime. evening, allsure line you dance • Check Toe Painting: 4session’s - board 4:20 p.m. register again for both afternoon door prize sessions.

Winners will be announced over our loud speaker. participants (you must be dancing) will receive special tickets for a chance to win unclaimed prizes.

Check the winner boardyou during session. Special Notice: At the at endthe of the evening, all line dance Volunteers will greet at each the registration table located front of the room. participants (you must be dancing) will receive special tickets for a chance to win unclaimed prizes.

You’re Invited! BETTER WITH AGE Fun Day October 13th, 9am-1pm Shoppes at NorthPark

47

150

$ $ to 150a amonth month to buy covered buy coveredover-the-counter over-the-counter productsand andgroceries groceries products

Get a prepaid card to buy covered over-the-counter (OTC) products and groceries. of manyover-the-counter extra benefits you could with t a prepaid card It’s to just buyone covered (OTC)get products UnitedHealthcare Dual Complete® LP (HMO D-SNP).

d groceries. It’s just one of many extra benefits you could get with With $150 a month one prepaidLP card, you can: itedHealthcare Dualon Complete® (HMO D-SNP).

• Buy everyday health care products, including pain relievers, vitamins,

th $150 a month bandages, on one prepaid can: supplements, antacids,card, cough you drops, allergy relief,

toothpastehealth and more Buy everyday care products, including pain relievers, vitamins, • Buy healthy foods, including fruits,cough vegetables, fish,allergy meat, dairy, supplements, bandages, antacids, drops, relief, beans, bread, cereals, pasta and more oothpaste and more

• Shop at participating stores, including many national retailers and Buy healthy foods, including fruits, vegetables, fish, meat, dairy, neighborhood stores, or order online with free home delivery options

beans, bread, cereals, pasta and more

Dual Complete is a health plan for people who:

• Have both Medicaid and Dual Complete is a hea Medicare

Shop at participating stores, including many national retailers and See if you can get this plan. Call today. plan for people who: neighborhood stores, or order online with free home delivery options • Could use more help to cover more care 1-855-277-4716, TTY 711 • Have both Medicaid a and costs 8 a.m. – 8 p.m. local time, 7 days a week Medicare

ee if you can get this plan. Call today.

• Want more benefits for • Could use more help a $0 plan premium

to cover more care and costs

855-277-4716, TTY 711 a.m. – 8 p.m. local time, 7 days a week

• Want more benefits fo 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.

Y0066_210720_044907_M 22SPRJ64529_H5322-031-000

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CAREGIVER Magazine

Issue 22

CaregiverOklahoma.com