CAREGIVER Magazine-Issue 26-April/May 2023

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

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GREATER OKLAHOMA CITY METRO AREA

BETHANY

The Grand at Bethany

Skilled Nursing & Therapy 7000 NW 32nd Street

405-789-7242

BLANCHARD

Senior Village Healthcare Center

1104 N Madison Ave

405-485-3315

CHICKASHA

Cottonwood Creek

Skilled Nursing & Therapy

2300 Iowa Avenue 405-224-6456

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

The Timbers

Skilled Nursing & Therapy

2520 S Rankin Street 405-341-1433

EL RENO River Oaks

Skilled Nursing & Therapy 1901 Parkview Drive 405-262-2833

NORMAN Grace

Skilled Nursing & Therapy

4554 W Main Street 405-366-8800

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

OKLAHOMA CITY

Brookwood

Skilled Nursing & Therapy 940 SW 84th Street 405-636-0626

Capitol Hill

Skilled Nursing & Therapy 2400 SW 55th Street

405-681-5381

Fairmont Skilled Nursing & Therapy Memory Care

3233 NW 10th Street 405-943-8366

Kingwood

Skilled Nursing & Therapy 1921 NE 21st Street 405-424-1449

St. Ann’s

Skilled Nursing & Therapy 9400 St. Ann Drive 405-728-7888

Wildewood

Skilled Nursing & Therapy

1913 NE 50th Street 405-427-5414

The Wilshire

Skilled Nursing & Therapy 505 E Wilshire Blvd 405-478-0531

SHAWNEE

The Regency

Skilled Nursing & Therapy 1610 N Bryan Avenue 405-275-9004

STILLWATER

Stillwater Creek

Skilled Nursing & Therapy 1215 W 10th Street

405-372-1000

TECUMSEH

Heritage Skilled Nursing & Therapy

201 W Walnut Street 405-598-2167

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

care discharge coordination.

I hope you’re doing well and enjoying the warmer weather. With the arrival of spring, it’s that time of year again to mark your calendars to attend the 4th Annual Better With Age FunDays on May 11th at the Shoppes at NorthPark. It is also a great time to plant a few veggie and flower seeds to enjoy all summer long.

Spring is always an exciting time just when we can’t stand another flake of snow or a belowfreezing day in Oklahoma the allergy season heralds, “springs here”! But oh so brief, run to the store for antihistamines and sunscreen because this perfectly pleasant weather won’t last long. Enjoy it while you can the summer scorcher is quickly on its way.

I have to admit spring and fall in Oklahoma are my favorite seasons but don’t squander either they are delightful and magical. At our home, we are blessed each spring by a quirky trio of feathered friends, that must be as equally amused by my bunch as we are with them. This is their fourth year visiting. A canoodling cooing pair of Mourning Doves we’ve named Chirp and JoJo, and the very entertaining, slightly unhinged, and zany, American Robin known as Flexy. He loves flexing his muscles while strutting the backyard fence. He’s a fierce little bird with the heart of an Eagle. He has a passion and panache for dive-bombing unsuspecting squirrels.

I hope to see you at the FunDay on May 11th. Until then make the most of these spring days. Nature is calling kick off the winter footwear and let your feet feel fresh grass. Dig in the dirt, plant something, reclaim your backyard or patio, and thank our creator for all the rejuvenating beauty and blessings of spring.

Sincerely,

LaShanya L. Nash

EDITORIAL

Editor-In-Chief

LaShanya Nash

Art Director

Angela Blake

Writers

LaShanya Nash

Lisa Sydnor

Kathy Cocks, RN

Angela Blake

Shelley Stutchman

Jim Kettler

Emberlee Nash

Dep. Tara Hardin

Charles Lillard

Danna Szymanski

Cover Photographer

Jessie Newell

Contributing Photographers

LaShanya Nash

Emberlee Nash

Community Outreach

Lisa Sydnor

405-314-7840

l.sydnor@betterwithageok.com

Layout Wise Marketing ADVERTISING

To advertise contact: Publisher

LaShanya Nash

405.532.6057

l.nash@betterwithageok.com

How to get started...

We will meet with you or fill out a brief assessment over the phone.

Discuss what type of community and locations best meet your needs.

Review financial resources and identify communities that fit your budget.

Schedule and accompany you on tours to help evaluate the offerings of each community.

We help coordinate the move in and follow up as you settle into your new home.

By Lisa Sydnor

Gilbert “Choc” Charleston was born December 24, 1923, on a ranch near Duncan, OK. Choc is a Choctaw and his heritage permeates his life. It is who he is – how he thinks – dictates his every action. In 1929, Choc started school in a oneroom schoolhouse just outside of Duncan. The teacher prohibited speaking anything but English in the school. There were 25 students, six were Charleston siblings. When any of the students spoke their native language they were beaten, not spanked, beaten with a rubber hose. The family left the ranch and moved to town. Second grade wasn’t much better for the children, as they were abused by other students. They were called terrible names and were humiliated by most students.

Choc was a member of a men’s quartet in high school. He was a champion boxer. He was awarded a boxing scholarship to Cameron College. Billie readily admits that when she was ten years old and Choc was 14 she was a pain in his side always wanting to hang out with him When, at 16, Choc had a job delivering dry cleaning from Duncan to Marlow, Billie’s parents asked if he could take Billie to her grandparents’ home which was on his route. He agreed. Billie liked to hear him sing. She made lists of her favorite songs and on the trips to Marlow, he sang every song on her favorites list.

When you talk with Choc you soon learn that his lovely wife of 78 years, Billie Charleston is, simply stated, the center of his universe. She has always rejuvenated, empowered, and supported him. Billie will be 96 on April 6, 2023. Married on July 3, 1944, together, they have journeyed life’s unpredictable path. They had two sons; Mike, a professor at Penn State, died of cancer at age 46; Stephen is a retired Bishop of the Episcopal diocese and academic. They have three grandchildren, one greatgrandson and are joyously looking forward to a great-granddaughter in April 2023.

Choc had been in college for a year when he received the infamous draft letter from “Uncle Sam”. Choc served in the Army during World War II. He was assigned to Fort Lewis, Washington, became a tank driver, and was a member of the Army boxing team. While on leave he was surprised to hear a sweet voice say, “Hi, Choc!” He said, “I turned around and there was Billie. Boy had she changed! She was the most beautiful woman I had ever seen. She invited me to dinner at her grandparents’ home. We talked for hours; when it was time to leave Billie asked when I had to go back and I told her tomorrow. She said she wished I didn’t have to leave so soon. I responded, why don’t we just get married? Billie said, Okay. I kissed her, our first kiss, and got her ring size. A week later we met in Kansas City and got married.” They went back to base and were together for three weeks prior to shipping out. Thus began the adventure of over 78 years together. They never went on a date, but one kiss sealed the deal.

His ship arrived in Europe and the troops disembarked in England. He saw action in Belgium, Holland, France, Luxembourg,

is where the heart is.

England, Wales and Germany. The tracks were blown off of the tank he was driving; the crew jumped out and ran away from the disabled tank. All survived. The next day he and another soldier drove to the main Allied Supply Depot in Belgium to get another tank. Upon arrival, the soldiers were told to go to the mess tent and eat. Choc says it was the first hot meal in over 30 days and the food was delicious. The next day they had a choice of resting for 24-48 hours before returning to base or returning immediately. Choc wanted to delay 24 hours before starting the arduous 12hour drive back to base. His friend wanted to return immediately as they had not received mail for some time and he wanted to get back hoping for letters from his girl. They headed back to base and when they arrived the Captain was happy to see them. The Germans hit the depot and had blown it “off the face of the earth.” Choc says love saved his life.

His unit was shipped to France just days after D-Day. They drove the tanks off the landing craft into the water and up the beach; then on toward Paris; they were redirected to Luxembourg, Belgium and Holland. “No one should ever have to see the carnage we witnessed in Aachen, Germany. There were bodies everywhere, civilians and animals. It was awful.” He saw action at the Battle of the Bulge, from December 1944 – January 1945.

In Bamberg, Germany the U.S. Forces took over the German tanker base. He was offered a promotion to Sgt. Major if he volunteered to stay. He turned the offer down stating he wouldn’t take it for Eisenhower’s position. He then went to Nuremberg in charge of the employees for the USO troops. As the only Indian in the outfit, everyone knew who he was; when the movie stars wanted something, they were told, “You have to ask the Indian.”

Choc arrived home from the war on December 4, 1945. He is proud of his service to his country. For his service he was awarded the Presidential Unit Citation; the American Defense Service Award; the Army Good Conduct Medal; Battle of the Bulge Commemorative Medal; World War II Victory Medal; European – African – Middle Eastern Campaign Medal; and, Army of Occupation Medal.

After being discharged, Choc returned to Duncan, enrolled at Cameron College to continue his college education, and began the next phase of life. His focus was on his family, going to school, working, and acclimating to civilian life with Billie by his side.

He went to work for Firestone; quickly became assistant manager of the store, then moved into management of a

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Goodyear Store. From there he moved into the oil business. From roustabout, roughneck, to sales; Choc knew the oil business from the ground up. During this time Billie expressed interest in starting a business. Choc bought an old motel on May Avenue and Billie began selling used furniture and other items. She was very successful and soon moved to selling only antique furniture.

After years of selling oilfield equipment, Choc went home one day and told Billie he didn’t want to be in the oil business and was considering other opportunities. Billie supported his decision. Choc quit, knowing he needed a change he joined Billie in her business. He began finding antique furniture for Billie to sell; traveling to the east coast and the northern states. He brought truckloads of antique furniture for the store. Billie sold out within weeks of receiving a truckload of antique furniture. Choc bought box trucks to handle the quantity of furniture he was buying. They went to auctions and held auctions. This “store” became Antique Alley. The evolution of a used furniture store to Antique Alley to Choctaw Trading Post and Choctaw Trading Post Café was amazing.

Billie had begun making jewelry and wanted to focus on that endeavor. Choc said it only made sense as he could spend the same amount of money and carry the inventory in box trucks or one briefcase The briefcase won; the business focus became jewelry. Billie made necklaces and bracelets; Choc made the earrings. Together, whether in business or in their personal lives, they were (and are) in sync.

Choc bought most of the block from NW 14th to NW 15th Street on North Portland Avenue in Oklahoma City. When they decided to close the café

in the late 1980s, Choc called the Chief of the Cheyenne Tribe and asked if she wanted the restaurant equipment. She said yes but sadly couldn’t afford it. Choc said all you need is “a truck, trailer and three Bucks” and it’s all yours. The Cheyenne Head Start program became the beneficiary of all the commercial kitchen equipment, supplies and café furnishings.

Choc and Billie retired in 1989; sold their home and traveled the world for five years. They took turns selecting the destinations. Choc was constantly seeking out tribes and meeting chiefs. He is a loving caregiver to Billie who needs his help after having a stroke in 2022 and losing much of her eyesight. Every morning he selects her dress, shoes and jewelry; preparing her for the day. And, by the way, he has excellent taste.

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This story is a brief look at the life of a man who put his heritage and service to his country and to others first. Choc was a spokesperson for the Oklahoma Department of Tourism; his pictures graced many OK publications. He has welcomed dignitaries from around the world to Oklahoma. The names of celebrities and politicians who counted Choc as a friend would fill pages. Just to name drop a few: President Carter, Cary Grant, Dale Robertson, Mickey Rooney, Lauren Bacall, Rita Hayworth; many Oklahoma political figures, including Alfalfa Bill Murray, George Nigh, Henry Bellmon, Brad Henry, Mary Fallon, and David Boren. Choc was friends with Quanah Parker’s grandson and Geronimo’s cousin, Jason Betzinet.

The Choctaws were the first tribe to arrive in Oklahoma on the Trail of Tears in

1831 Choc’s father and grandfather were Presbyterian ministers. His grandfather made a dugout in a dry creek bed in 1890 to shelter his family. Stephens County Historical Museum in Duncan has a display of World Wars II and Native American memorabilia donated by Choc. Items on display include four issues of the Stars & Stripes Newspaper; a Choctaw wedding vase; beaded moccasins, belt, and cane; and, a replica of the tank driven by Choc.

He is a walking, true, history book and a great storyteller. He has lived his life by: “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.” Choc Charleston is a gracious, kind, respectful, loving man. He greeted everyone with a smile and a firm handshake. This is his legacy for his family, his Tribe, his State, his Country – what more could one ask but to be known for making this world a better place?

Thank You For Your Service —

All State Veterans Homes currently hiring nurses (RN/LPN/CMA/CNA), housekeeping, food service, laundry. Competitive pay and great benefits!

Veterans with a VA service-connected disability rating of 70-100% live with us for free and keep all their compensation!

Veterans (and surviving spouses) previously awarded sales tax exempt status prior to November 1, 2021 must register in the Oklahoma Veterans Registry no later than July 1, 2023 in order to remain eligible for the benefit of sales tax exemption. The Oklahoma Veterans Registry can be accessed at the following link: registry.odva.ok.gov/registration

ARDMORE VETERANS HOME 1015 S Commerce St

Ardmore , OK 73401

Phone: (580) 223-2266

CLAREMORE VETERANS CENTER 3001 W. Blue Starr Drive Claremore , OK 74017-0988

Phone: 918-342-5432

CLINTON VETERANS CENTER 1701 South 4th St, Clinton , OK 73601

Phone: 580-331-2200

LAWTON/FT SILL VETERANS HOME 501 S.E. Flower Mound Road

Lawton , OK 73501

Phone: 580-351-6511

NORMAN VETERANS HOME

1776 E. Robinson St. Norman, OK 73070

Phone: 405-360-5600

SALLISAW VETERANS HOME – COMING SOON—

SULPHUR VETERANS HOME 304 E. Fairlane

Sulphur , OK 73086

Phone: 580-331-6400

TALIHINA VETERANS CENTER 10014 SE. 1138th Ave, Talihina, OK 74571

Phone: 918-567-2251

Fax: 918-567-2950

The staff of CAREGIVER Magazine is committed to connecting those in need with services and programs. If you have a question or you are looking for services, call 405-314-7840 or email l.sydnor@betterwithageok.com; include your name and phone number in the message. We can help you find resources such as 211; NewView Oklahoma; Will Rogers Senior Center; a home health care agency; a place to live, fraud prevention, etc.

NATIONAL INDIAN COUNCIL ON AGING

In this issue, we are highlighting Oklahoma Native Americans. It seems appropriate to mention a couple of the Native American agencies that serve inclusively. One organization is the National Indian Council on Aging (NICOA) which is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization founded in 1976 by members of the National Tribal Chairmen’s Association who called for a national organization focused on the needs of aging American Indian and Alaska Native elders. The mission of NICOA is to advocate for improved comprehensive health, social services and economic well-being for American Indian and Alaska Native elders.

NICOA operates as a national sponsor for the Senior Community Service Employment Program authorized under Title V of the Older Americans Act. The mission is to provide opportunities for lowincome elders through paid training, meaningful community service, and skills development. NICOA’s SCSEP provides services to anyone in the service area eligible for the program; help elders find work, develop new skills and talents, and build their financial security by taking advantage of the Senior Community Service Employment Program (SCSEP). SCSEP is an on-the-job training and employment program designed to help those age 55 and older update their

jobs skills, build work experience and confidence, and continue to have economic security and well-being.

SCSEP is administered by the U.S. Department of Labor under the authority of the Older Americans Act of 1965, Title V. SCSEP is the only federally funded community service and job training program focused exclusively on serving low-income elders 55 and older, in nearly all 3,000 U.S. counties and territories through state and national grantees. SCSEP helps job-seeking elders gain the skills necessary to re-enter the workforce. The program provides grant-sponsored (subsidized) income and training to participants while they serve their communities, which improves their well-being and prepares them for regular (unsubsidized) employment.

Paul Durrett, director of NICOA in Oklahoma said, “Our program is rebuilding after COVID. We have a job developer on staff, training has resumed and our staff and participants are excited about next steps. Prior to COVID, we had 88 participants in the program. Our goal is to train and place, minimally, 75 elders in 2023. We are actively recruiting non-profits and government agencies for work sites.”

To learn more about the program, sign up for training, or become a work site, contact NICOA at 405-951-9240.

NASHI accomplishes this mission by forming a partnership of residents, businesses, financial leaders, and local government officials who jointly commit to establishing policies and programs to revitalize lowerincome communities for the benefit of current residents. Providing technical assistance to Tribally Designated Housing for Elders to strengthen organizational and individual capacity is another avenue to the mission. NASHI insures communications between residents, city government, and financial institutions in regard to financial terms and methods; as well as cooperative efforts to promote home loan programs are clear. NASHI created a complete Homebuyer Education curriculum including teaching aids that address needs and services in Native America and other communities; and, provides property management and “lease to own” programs that create avenues to homeownership. NASHI also provides specific assessments and surveys for Native American communities to assist economic development initiatives and engages in other activities and functions as are proper and in furtherance, of the goals and purposes of this

For additional information on programs and eligibility

NATIVE AMERICAN HOUSING SERVICES, INC.

“The mission of the Native American Housing Services, Inc. (NAHSI) is to promote decent, safe, sanitary, and affordable housing for qualified individuals and families within the State of Oklahoma. “

Written by Medicare Jet-Setters

Stutchman

Groovy Groovy

When was the last time you went to a museum? Immerse yourself in history and enjoy the stories and lessons of the past.

Edmond Historical Society Museum 413 South Boulevard, Edmond, OK 73034

The Edmond Historical Society Museum offers a fascinating and sometimes amusing history about the beginnings of Edmond, Oklahoma. Before Edmond had a name, one of the traveling freight agents for the Atchison, Topeka, and Santa Fe Railroad frequently worked in this area. His name was Edmond Schuyler Burdick.  Formerly designated “Mile Marker 103” by a party of surveyors with the Southern Kansas Railway, the name was officially changed on March 28, 1887 by Santa Fe officials to Edmond. Edmond Burdick never even lived in the town named after

One of the amusing pieces of information was about the competition between the first churches in Edmond. St. John, the Baptist Church, opened its doors for mass just two months after the land run on June 24, 1889. At the time, there were five Catholic families in Edmond. Not to be outdone, seventy Protestants joined forces to hold the first Union Sunday School in a new store building on the evening of June 23, 1889.

Next, my eyes wandered over to the IBM manual typewriter. Nearby was a princess telephone, a Sears black and white TV, a transistor radio, and a Zenith radio that was the same one my parents had. There was also an Atari. Holy moly, the things I used were now museum pieces? Where have the years gone?

Check out the Edmond Historical Society Museum. You will laugh and learn and won’t even spend a dime because the museum entrance is free.

Neil Johnson and Shelley

Cultural

The American Indian Cultural Center & Museum is a must-see. For senior citizens, the cost is $10.00 per ticket. Touring this museum changed me forever. I will no longer refer to the Indians as Native Americans. I learned they preferred to be called First Americans. The First Americans were the first on this land, though the last to gain US Citizenship.

There are several theaters inside the museum where you can sit and absorb the history of The First Americans. One of the theaters was round. The graphics and total immersion into the account of the First Americans came to life in this extraordinary setting.

The First Americans honored women, as shown in Lavonna Lovern’s (Eastern Band Cherokee) quote, Feminist scholar,2011. “Because of the ability to give life, the title of “Mother” was a designation of power, not one of sentimentality…Indian women were respected and protected.”

The art in the museum is colorful, intricate, and beautiful. Each painting seemed to tell a story. The details in the beadwork amazed me at the skill it must have taken.

Tinker Air Force Base is named after a First American, Major General Clarence L. Tinker. His First American name was Tse Tse Moi. He was the first Native American to become a major general in the US Army. He was awarded the Soldier’s Medal for gallantry and the Distinguished Service Medal. General Tinker lost his life in a combat mission during WWII. Each year, his bravery and sacrifice are recognized with a song in his honor during the Osage dances.

Thank

The American Banjo Museum 9 E Sheridan Ave, Oklahoma City, OK 73104

The museum is currently home to over 400 instruments. You will see every Bango, from primitive handmade ones to contemporary ones. It is a fascinating walk-through time as you discover every new era of banjo evolution. The museum’s massive gathering of ornately decorated four-string tenor and plectrum banjos from the Jazz Age of the 1920s and 30s is the most extensive collection of its type on public display in the world and is a real national treasure.

There were also glitzy clothes some of the famous banjo entertainers had worn on display.

Oklahoma is home to over 500 museums.

The Oklahoma Museums Association website hosts a list of Oklahoma museums which can be sorted alphabetically or by city. OMA institutional member museums have a link to their website. Go to Museum Archive | Oklahoma Museums Association (okmuseums.org)

Museums are groovy. Since Oklahoma has over 500 choices, look at the list on their website, and make plans to get up and go to an Oklahoma museum.

Downsizing

What I want to stress the most about 80 for Brady is do not assume it is a chick flick. This movie entertains both the guys and the gals equally. It is funny, has substance, and has enough football and Tom Brady to make it enjoyable for both men and women.

We enjoyed this movie with two other couples. The men laughed every bit as hard as the women did. The laughs keep coming throughout the entire film. As baby boomers, you will enjoy seeing the stars we grew up with still going strong. Jane Fonda is eighty-five years old; Lily Tomlin is eighty-three; Rita Moreno is ninety-one; and Sally Field is the baby of the group at seventy-six years old.

Movie

Films

ParadisePlant

Creating a tropical oasis inside our homes is all very well for the green-fingered, but what about the brownfingered, less knowledgable plant parents among us? Well it’s thanks to the many great “faux” options available up and down the high street and online that allow us all to benefit from this leafy look. This trick is to mix the two, so your easier-to-care for house plants such as palms and succulents could be real, whilst the harder and more expensive options could be artificial, but visitors to your home will never know.

H o m e H e a l t h

F o c u s e d o n h e l p i n g y o u m a n a g e a c h r o n i c c o n d i t i o n o r r e c o v e r f r o m a n a c u t e i l l n e s s , s u r g e r y , a c c i d e n t , o r a c h a n g e i n m e d i c a l c o n d i t i o n

H o s p i c e C a r e

O f f e r s e n d - o f - l i f e c a r e , i n c l u d i n g s u p p o r t f o r y o u r p h y s i c a l a n d e m o t i o n a l n e e d s , a n d t h e n e e d s o f y o u r w h o l e f a m i l y .

P a l l i a t i v e C a r e

F o c u s e s o n a d d r e s s i n g t h e p h y s i c a l , e m o t i o n a l , s p i r i t u a l , a n d s o c i a l n e e d s o f t h e p a t i e n t w h i l e r e c o v e r i n g o r r e c e i v i n g t r e a t m e n t

c e n t r i c h e a l t h . c o m

CAREGIVERS

By Kathy Cocks, RN

Signs of Dementia

Dementia is described as a cognitive impairment that affects a person’s ability to manage their life, manage their social interactions or perform basic functions. In the United States, about 5.8 million people suffer with dementia and the risk increases the older an individual gets. Three percent of people aged 65-74 have dementia but this rises to 17 percent for someone 75-84 and then 32 percent for those over the age of 85.

Many families are facing having an aged loved one diagnosed with dementia. Dementia does not just cause memory loss, it also can change a person’s personality and take away their ability to make rational decisions. What are some first steps a person should take when a family member is diagnosed with dementia?

The first thing I think about is safety—is the person living in a safe situation and making safe decisions. Begin by evaluating their driving habits. Examine the car and see if there are a number of dents on the car. Have they been getting tickets or involved in accidents? Have they called you from somewhere and gotten lost? These are all warning signs that they should not drive. Driving in the United States especially here in Oklahoma is a sign of independence. It

may be important to get in the car and have the individual drive. They may be safe to drive down the street to the drug store but not across town to the mall. If they are willing to be limited on their driving like only going short distances or only during the day I recommend putting a GPS tracker on the car to make sure they are being safe. If it becomes necessary to take the keys make sure to give them alternatives to driving. You can hire individuals that can drive them or take turns driving them with different friends and family. If they refuse to quit driving you may need to let their doctor know, or inform the department of motor vehicle safety.

The second thing to examine is their nutritional needs and their food. Look through the cabinets and refrigerator and see if they have food to cook and food that has not spoiled. It is easy to forget when a package or container of food was opened and then eat something that gives them food poisoning. See if they have eaten items left for them in their refrigerator. Sometimes a person with dementia forgets where the food is so they only eat crackers because that is what is sitting out on the counter. Listen and see if they complain about being hungry or if their clothes are getting looser. Along with food make sure they have a way

to prepare their food safely. Look and see if they have burned pots and pans to make sure they are not leaving the stove on. If you suspect they could start a fire this would be a good time to have a family visit and place cameras in the house and determine if they are being unsafe. Some individuals forgot how to use the microwave so it might be a good idea to sign them up for meals on wheels that bring them a hot meal during the week.

People with early signs of dementia can become trusting of people and get themselves scammed or in some dangerous situations. I had a client where family said a man told her he had mowed her lawn and she owed him one hundred dollars. She said she did not have any cash and he said I can take you to the bank. She let him drive her to the bank and get him the money. Thankfully something worse did not happen to her. It is important that they will not just leave the house and walk away and wander either by themselves or with a stranger. This is also the time to protect their assets and make sure that trusting people either family or a trust manager is monitoring their bank and investments so that their assets are protected for their care.

Finally, we look at how a person manages their medication. Maybe the medications need to be set up in some type of planner and the person can take their medication independently. But this also needs to be monitored because many individuals with dementia will get their days mixed up and could take medications two days in a row. Some people will purchase machines that dispense medications at a certain time of the day and set off an alarm. One of the most common ER visits for older individuals is having taken too much or too little medication. This is a common reason that those with dementia will move out of their home. It is important to always think about safety when a person has dementia but is still living at home.

JANUARY 2023

Employee of the Month

I love being a caretaker. I love hearing the stories they have and I also enjoy getting some of the wisdom they’ve gathered over the years. Knowing that I make a difference each day, makes me love my job at ComForCare Home Care.

AMY WATKINS

FEBRUARY 2023

Employee of the Month

Why I love being a caregiver! With a degree in Accounting, my heart longed for more in life. Being a Natural Nurturer by heart, I always felt I wanted to do something in the medical field. I wasn’t really interested in going back to school to achieve that though. After taking care of & losing both my mother and father-in-law this past August & September to cancer, I knew it was time to do what makes me happy. Helping take care of others is truly where my heart is and that is why I love being a caregiver with ComForCare Home Care.”

MARCH 2023

Employee of the Month

“I really like being there for my client. I enjoy the time we spend together. It feels good to help them. I enjoy working for ComForCare Home Care.”

C MMUNITY HEARTBEAT

By Lisa Sydnor

IMAGINE HARVESTING FROM YOUR GARDEN

Imagine hand-picked fruits and veggies grown from your own garden. In Issue 25 we looked at where and how to get help with food needs. I wanted to carry this one step further and talk about how you can help yourself. Let’s talk gardens and the versatility of what your “garden” might look like.

I grew up planting, weeding, harvesting, and canning from our garden and from my paternal grandparents’ garden. Our garden was about a quarter acre and my grandparents’ garden was over two (2) acres. Everyone worked the gardens and everyone reaped the rewards. Now that I live in an apartment my garden consists of three (3) large flower pots.

Skyline Ministries has a garden program with two purposes: to provide fresh produce for the Food Resource Center and to offer patrons the opportunity to learn more about gardening. Seasonal gardening classes are led by the garden program manager.

“Many people think gardening and growing begin in the spring. Actually, growing begins in the fall and happens year-round. You need to know what to grow, how it grows, and when.” stated Travis Andrews, Garden Program Manager at Skyline

Urban Ministries. He has tips and suggestions to help you get started with your garden.

There are Urban Farming classes open to the public at Skyline on Wednesday evenings and Saturdays where you learn best practices and simple techniques for growing in an urban setting. A critical component to the gardening classes is learning how to prepare and preserve prior to refrigeration. Email Travis to sign up for the free classes. tandrews@ okcskyline.org

Skyline uses composting to utilize waste and produces organic liquid fertilizer that is used in the greenhouse and gardens. Skyline can help you learn how to produce compost in your own home.

There are a wide variety of crops that may be grown in a flower pot or window box. Select the crops you want to grow each season and plant accordingly. Many plants grow and produce well in containers, for example, radishes, leaf lettuce, strawberries, blueberries, greens, cherry tomatoes, spinach, peppers, and a large selection of squash and zucchinis. Make sure to select seed varieties suitable for containers and containers sized appropriately for the varieties you’re planting.

Knowing how to start your produce is critical. Some seeds are best directly planted in soil. Others are best started indoors and transplanted as seedlings outdoors after fear of possible frost. You can also go to a garden center to select plants making sure they are vibrant and healthy. Potting soil and liquid fertilizer are keys to growing healthy plants in containers. There are organic of each available to avoid harmful chemicals.

You can volunteer in the greenhouse and gardens by contacting Skyline Ministries at 405-605-3094 or emailing tandrews@ okcskyline.org. As a volunteer you will learn to cultivate your own garden; help the Food Resource Center provide more fresh food to clients; and, enjoy fresh fruits and veggies at your own table. Seeing the fruits of your labor can give you a sense of accomplishment, purpose, and pride in being more self-sufficient.

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.

Intensive rehabilitation

Our center’s progressive treatment program is ideal for those recovering from surgery, illness or injury. We use an interdisciplinary team approach to manage the physical and emotional care needs of our patients.

Specialized Nursing Care

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

FIVE LOCATIONS TO SERVE YOU

3 fun and effective outdoor exercises

for seniors

The benefits of spending time in the great outdoors are significant. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, spending time outdoors may improve mental health and help to reduce stress, and the vitamin D the body absorbs while outside can have a positive effect on blood cells and the immune system.

Vitamin D helps the body absorb calcium, which strengthens bones. That’s especially beneficial for seniors, as the National Council on Aging notes that bone density often decreases after age 50, which can increase the risk of fractures.

Spending time outdoors also provides a social benefit, encouraging individuals from all walks of life, including seniors, to get out of their homes and spend time with others. With so much to gain, seniors can consider these three outdoor exercises as they seek to maintain or improve their overall health.

1. Walking: Walking is free and effective. In fact, a brisk 30-minute walk can improve blood flow, contribute to a stronger heart, strengthen bones, and help people sleep better at night. In addition, a 2022 study found that people between the ages of 40 and 79 who walked about 9,800 steps per day were 51 percent less likely to develop dementia than people who didn’t walk much at all.

2. Cycling: Riding a bike is both fun and a great form of outdoor exercise. Studies show just how valuable it can be to ride a bike. For example, a 2020 study published in the journal The Lancet found that people who cycled were 24 percent less likely to die of heart disease and 11 percent less likely to develop cancer. Seniors can incorporate cycling into their daily routines and enjoy all the fun, healthy benefits that riding a bike provides.

3. Hiking: Hiking is a bit more strenuous than walking, particularly when individuals choose to traverse steep and/or rocky terrain. WebMD notes that hiking after age 60 can help people reduce their risk of falls and fractures; lower their risk for a host of ailments, including coronary heart disease, colon cancer and diabetes; reduce blood pressure, even in adults who have already been diagnosed with hypertension; and maintain healthy bones and joints. Hiking is not a one-size-fits-all activity, so seniors, especially those who would characterize themselves as novice hikers, are urged to speak with their physicians prior to hiking trails that are not flat.

Seniors can consider these three fun activities and others as they answer the call of the great outdoors. Walking, cycling and hiking offer a great reason to get out of the house and reap the healthrelated benefits of spending time outside.

By LaShanya Nash

An Edmond, Oklahoma family-owned bakery, Khloe’s Konfections, is on a mission to send cookie care packages to soldiers serving aboard the USS Nimitz. Celebrating family, community, and our country is at the heart of all that they do.

When asked about the project the message was straightforward and genuine, “Being part of a family of veterans, we are surrounded by everyday heroes who have made the sacrifice of service to our country. Knowing first-hand what it is like to be deployed or at camp, missing your loved ones, and the wonderful things that make the simplest days special.”

Khloe’s Konfections owners, Lex and Shametra Heatrice, believe that “a little butter and a lot of love can make even the darkest days brighter. That’s why we started the “Butter & Love” campaign to ship cookies to deployed soldiers around the world.”

They are kicking off the campaign with the soldiers serving aboard the USS Nimitz currently on deployment in the Pacific. The USS Nimitz is the oldest U.S. aircraft carrier in service and the oldest serving aircraft carrier in the world. Virtually a selfcontained city, Nimitz serves over 5,000 Sailors and Marines.

The Heatrices’ goal is to get 500 dozen cookies sponsored at $27 per dozen. Khloe’s Konfections will handle the shipping and send them out weekly during the months of March and April. Caregiver Magazine proudly supports this cause. I know our service men and women will enjoy the “Butter & Love” cookie care packages sent to them. They will be baked with love from an incredible Oklahoma small business. If you would like to join us and participate in sponsoring a cookie care package, visit their website at www.khloeskonfections.com/ butter&love

By Deputy Tara Hardin, Oklahoma County Sheriff

WATCH YOUR MAIL

I recently heard that fraud has now surpassed oil as the world’s largest income resource. Whether that is true or not, it is definitely big business these days with losses in the BILLIONS! Here are a few of the latest scams and frauds and some simple steps you can take to avoid becoming a victim.

Thieves know when it’s tax season and what to look for in the mail. Your tax return contains very sensitive, personal information. So if you are mailing your tax return only do so by taking it inside the post office during business hours and just before the scheduled pickup time. Never mail a tax return or any other sensitive information or funds from your home mailbox, from an outside big blue mailbox, or even from the post office over the weekend.

Additionally, monitor your incoming mail. You can do this by signing up for INFORMED DELIVERY through the US Postal Service. The post office will send you an email daily with a picture of the mail that is supposed to be delivered that day. You will then know immediately if something is missing from your mailbox. You can sign up for this service by going to USPS.com and look for Informed Delivery under the Quick Tools tab.

Have you given much thought to the volume of information that is out there in various databases about each of us, how it is obtained, and how it’s

tion is getting tougher and tougher these days but a simple, inexpensive shredder is one way to limit the possibility of your information falling into the hands of criminals. Shred any and all paperwork that has personal information on it, including your address, or credit card numbers. This obviously includes things like bank statements or credit card statements but it also includes things like prescription labels, junk mail, magazine labels, and even receipts from the drive-thru often have your name and the last 4 of your credit card. Make shredding these things part of your normal daily routine and help protect your personal information.

Fraudsters and hackers often pose to be from a business or government agency you know and trust. They send spoofed emails, texts, and phone calls telling you things such as you’ve had potentially fraudulent charges on your account, or your package delivery has been delayed, that you’ve won a prize, or even that you have a warrant for your arrest.

Never click on links in texts or emails and do not answer calls that are not from your personal contacts. If you truly are waiting on a package delivery or think you may have had fraudulent charges on your account, get out of that email/text/phone call and contact that business directly to confirm but do NOT reply or use the links or phone numbers they have asked you to use. Instead, do the research yourself and look up the contact information.

Also, government agencies, such as the Sheriff’s office or the IRS will never contact you by phone and ask you to pay a warrant, fine, or back taxes. And lastly, remember if you are being asked to pay in gift cards, wire transfers, crypto-currency, or a courier being sent to your house to pick up cash, it is without a doubt a scam.

If you’d like more information on how you can avoid becoming a victim of the latest scam, fraud, or crime targeting seniors please contact our office at 405-8692555 for information on free monthly classes taught at 20 locations around Oklahoma County. You can also sign up for the same free monthly class online by going to www.metrotech.edu/events and look for the Crime Prevention Series.

ASSISTED LIVING

Longterm Care Options in Oklahoma —

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)

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)

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.

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.

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

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

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

H a n d y h e l p f o r a g i n g i n p l a c e !

A d d g r a b b a r s a n y w h e r e i n y o u r h o m e .

R e p l a c e m e n t o f i n t e r i o r a n d e x t e r i o r

d o o r k n o b s t o h a n d l e s , k e y p a d e n t r y

s y s t e m s a n d w i r e l e s s d o o r b e l l c a m e r a s .

U p g r a d e t o h i g h p r o f i l e t o i l e t .

T E X T O R C A L L

Serving the OKC Metro s c h e d u l e a n o c o s t

C O N S U L T A T I O N

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By Danna Szymanski, Oklahoma County Master Gardener

P-L-A-N-T YOUR GARDEN

P-L-A-N-T Your Garden with These FIVE steps

Acronyms abound because many of them actually help us remember important facts. The acronym F-A-S-T, for example, helps people easily access the signs of stroke. F stands for facial drooping, A for arm weakness, S for speech difficulties, and T for time.

During the springtime of every year, people just like you want to grow a garden but many don’t know where to start. This is where my new acronym will help. P-L-A-N-T will help you remember the easy-to-do steps for starting your own garden in whatever space you have available!

Plan: When planning for your backyard or container garden, consider what you want to grow, where to plant it, when to plant it, and how to plant it. For example, if you want to grow tomatoes, make sure you have a space that receives full sun for 6-8 hours or more per day. You can choose to plant your tomato plants in a container or in the ground, and you can choose between plants or seeds. Consider getting your soil tested through the OSU Extension to find out what specific nutrients your soil needs. HERE IN OKLAHOMA, PLAN AHEAD TO PLANT AFTER APRIL 15TH!

Learn: Before planting your garden, take some time to learn all you can about the plant you want to grow. For our tomato example, tomato plants require abundant moisture, so make sure you place them in a location that’s easily accessible for watering. Tomatoes, for example, may also need some type of support system or cage,

and they need well-drained soil since poor drainage promotes root loss. Start learning at https://extension. okstate.edu/fact-sheets/ which has great info on all things growing in Oklahoma.

Add together: After planning and learning, you’re ready to plant your garden. If you’re placing a plant in a container, add the potting soil and make a hole. Again, for a tomato plant, place it into the hole and then fill the hole with additional soil. Follow the planting by watering everything very well. If you are planting a tomato, make sure you set the tomato plant slightly deeper than it originally grew so the lower leaves are close to the ground. For staked or caged plants, place tomato plants at least three feet apart. For unsupported tomato plants, leave three to five feet between them.

Nourish: Besides sun and soil, plants need water and fertilization to help produce the desired amount of fruit or flowers. A complete garden fertilizer should be added to the soil when your plants are young and need the extra help. Tomatoes, for example, prefer a fertilizer low in nitrogen, high in phosphorus, and medium to high in potassium. Look for fertilizer that suits your preferences

and don’t forget to nourish your plants several times throughout the growing season.

Time: The last step in planting your backyard garden is time. If you’re planting into the ground, make sure the timing is right. Soil temperatures should be above 60 degrees Fahrenheit. According to the Oklahoma Cooperative Extension Service, these conditions usually occur in mid-April. To avoid a late freeze, wait until the average last freeze date for your area, usually around April 15. Then give your plants time to develop and process all the wonderful things you give them. Tomatoes, for instance, take six to eight weeks to produce an 8-inch tall, dark green plant from seed.

No matter what you choose to plant, following these five steps will prepare you and your plants for a summer full of life and wonderful produce in your own space. So no matter the type of space or type of plant, try something now - get outside and start planting!

For more information contact the OSU Extension Center at 405-713-1125 or visit their website at: https://extension.okstate.edu/

With one FunDay completed and two more FunDays on the horizon, 2023 is definitely off to a fun start! This year’s 2nd Annual Del City Better With Age FunDay was on March 23rd. Our goal since the beginning, in the spring of 2019, of Better With Age FunDays, is to entertain, educate and enlighten all who attend. Some comments as attendees were surrounding the exhibitors; “This is so much fun!”, “I can’t believe they fed everyone for free all day, I’m stuffed!”, “When is the big fun day at the Northpark Mall? I will be there.” 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 another wonderful collaboration. 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 “Joint Post Color Guard” from VFW Post 9969 and American Legion Post 73 thank you. Tom Nix, performer extraordinaire, thank you for playing the keyboard, singing, and encouraging the audience participation! DJ Jammin Jeff Aynes, another superb production as emcee all while playing tunes that made the day flow by! There were the lovely ladies of the “Not Just Country Line Dancers”, who are the personification of becoming better with age, dancing and teaching the more adventurous attendees and exhibitors a few new steps.

Thank you to our amazing exhibitors who provided giveaways, resources and information. The attendees won over 50 door prizes you provided. The energy and positivity could be felt throughout the Del City community center it was inspirational.

A special thank you to Centric Health for sponsoring the fabulous photo booth that gave a keepsake memory of the FunDay. Complementary food items and snacks, including hot breakfast biscuits, fresh fruit, yogurt, granola bars and more. Provided everyone with options for nourishment for the entire event.

The 2nd Annual Del City Better With Age FunDay was fun, informative and high-energy! Add the 4th Annual NorthPark FunDays on May 11th and October 12th to your calendars and join us at the Shoppes at NorthPark, 122nd & North May Ave. from 9 am - 1 pm.

GREAT FUN AND SURPRISES ARE WAITING!

4 t h A n n u a l 4 h A a l 4 t A n n u a l

Y o u ' r e I n v i t e d ! Y o u r e I v i t e d ! o u ' r e I n v t e d !

A B L E T E C H i s p r o v i d i n g c u r b s i d e d o n a t i o n d r o p - o f f o f u s e d m e d i c a l e q u i p m e n t !

F R E E A d m i s s i o n ! F R E E F o o d ! O V E R 8 0 D O O R P R I Z E S ! 9 0 + E x h i b i t o r s !

N o r e g i s t r a t i o n n e e d e d f o r t h e p u b l i c , j u s t c o m e a n d e n j o y t h e F U N ! p

E x h i b i t o r R e g i s t r a t i o n N O W O P E N ! E x h i b i t o r R e g i s t r a t i o n N O W O P E N ! E x h i b i t o r R e g i s t r a t i o n N O W O P E N !

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Remember When...

Remember when you had to wash the family car every Saturday and that meant getting out a sponge and bucket and using elbow grease to get it sparkling clean?

Remember when your Grandma would send you to pick enough blackberries for her to make a pie and when the basket made it back half of them were in your belly instead of in the basket?

Remember when kids as young as preschoolers were required to collect and wash the eggs each day? With the price of eggs today, we just didn’t know how good we had it back then.

Remember when the women would get together and hold a quilting bee to create beautiful quilts that are probably still around today?

We Did Chores?

Remember when spring meant planting so in the fall all of the fruits and vegetables could be canned and put up in the cellar? Food from the grocery store was not a normalcy, if you went to get something for dinner, you went to the basement.

Remember when you had to feed the animals before and after school? I remember carrying two 5-gallon buckets at a time to “balance” out the weight and make it easier to carry.

Remember when laundry was hung outside instead of put into the dryer? I even had my favorite clothes pins and would get mad if my sister tried to use them instead of the ones that didn’t work as well.

Remember when butter didn’t come in plastic containers? We would skim the cream off of the milk and when we had enough saved we churned it into butter ourselves.