CAREGIVER Magazine-Issue 27-June/July 2023

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

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

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.

Dear Readers,

Summer is here! The great outdoors is calling just begging us to soak up some vitamin D and enjoy the sun’s warmth. This issue is about the value of being active as we age, maintaining or regaining our health. We’re featuring the Oklahoma Senior Games and their amazing mission of providing a fun way to improve our health and make new friends.

God has given each of us one life to live. We have goals we want to achieve and a legacy we want to leave. Improving and maintaining our health ensures we live a better quality purpose-filled life with family and friends.

Are you still setting goals, are you re-evaluating and challenging yourself daily? If not, why? Maybe you’re recovering from a health setback and feel discouraged about your health and life in general.

Routines and goals instill purpose. Small goals and tasks performed consistently create a habit. Healthy habits like moving with purpose, keeping a tidy home, making healthy food choices, good hygiene and self-care, brushing our teeth, reading and learning something new, trading sedentary for activity, surrounding ourselves with positive people that support us, and eliminating negative self-talk that keeps us stuck in a pattern of self-defeat. These are all great places to start.

EDITORIAL

Editor-In-Chief

LaShanya Nash

Art Director

Angela Blake

Writers

LaShanya Nash

Lisa Sydnor

Kathy Cocks, RN

Angela Blake

Shelley Stutchman

Carolyn Cummings

Emberlee Nash

Dep. Tara Hardin

Charles Lillard

Danna Szymanski

Cover Photographer

Emberlee Nash

Contributing Photographers

LaShanya Nash

Jessie Newell

Community Outreach

Lisa Sydnor

405-314-7840

l.sydnor@betterwithageok.com

Layout Wise Marketing

ADVERTISING

Thursday, October 12th, 9am-1pm

To advertise contact: Publisher

LaShanya Nash

405.532.6057

l.nash@betterwithageok.com

ACCOUNTING

ANDREA O’HAIR

Shoppes at Northpark, 122nd & N. May AVE

Exhibitor inquiry: info@betterwithageok.com or 405-532-6057 info@betterwithageok.com

CaregiverOklahoma.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.

Janet Thornton has been involved with the National Senior Games since 2006, when she and her husband, Buck, received a card in the mail informing them about a golf tournament in the National Senior Games. Buck loves to play golf, Janet signed him up! For several years they traveled across the United States making friends and having fun. Then came the opportunity to get the Oklahoma Senior Games up and running, and the rest, as they say, is history.

Oklahoma Senior Games (OSG) was re-established in Oklahoma in 2016. Kathleen Fitzgerald, Regina Stewart, Jan Scott, Doris Harris and Janet Thornton were instrumental in getting Oklahoma sanctioned as part of the National Senior Games. Many Oklahomans have benefited from being a part of the Games. To qualify for OSG you must be 50+ years old. You may register in multiple sports, such as golf, swimming, line dancing, shuffleboard, etc.

Oklahoma Senior Games is the recipient of a $500,000 grant from the Tobacco Settlement Endowment Trust (TSET) funds. These funds are earmarked for recruitment and training of instructors and participants in the OSG. OSG has team and individual sporting events, and they will help you learn how to play or refine your skills in a sport with knowledgeable instructors.

When line dancing became a sport in 2022, Janet mentioned it to a few friends who were eager to try something new. Janet quickly recruited friends and friends of friends to join her on this adventure. Charlotte Brown, Janet’s sister, was the first recruit. The fun part of this team is that the “six degrees of separation” is more like one degree.

Did you know Brookdale Home Health can help reduce your risk of injury and falls?

Our multidisciplinary treatment approach encompasses every system that contributes to balance and mobility.

Therapy programs:

Occupational therapy, Physical therapy, and Active Life Balance program.

Fall risk triggers: Balance problems, multiple medications, sensory deficits, mobility issues, low blood pressure and home hazards.

Janet Thornton

Nancy and Charlotte went from elementary to high school together, graduating in the sixties; Beverly and Rachel also graduated in the same high school class; Charlotte and Janet are sisters; and, one of the ladies dated Beverly’s exhusband! Thus, was formed the Dancing Queens and line dancing in Oklahoma took on a different look. This is Tulsa’s version of the Rockettes!

Meet the lovely ladies who call themselves the Dancing Queens and range in age from 71-81 years young. The red sparkling cowgirl boots and hats certainly add to their charm. These ladies meet life on their terms. They support each other; shop and travel together; they cry, laugh, spit nails, and sip wine together. In responding to the question, “Why did you join this team?” the common responses were: friendship, love of music and fun. They all love music and many of them meet at the Elks Club to dance. Other reasons mentioned were: great physical exercise, the opportunity for socialization, and exercising the brain by learning the routines. These dancers are serious about learning the choreography. In addition to rehearsals, they practice at home.

Linda McNamara

Janet couldn’t recruit her friends to a line dancing team without making that commitment herself. Looking at her life, she wondered how she could possibly add one more task. Thankfully, that task soon became a rejuvenating, inspirational part of her life. Janet lives in Muskogee which requires her to plan to be in Tulsa for rehearsals and performances. Janet recruits instructors and participants for all the sports. secures corporate sponsors, sells advertising, locates venues for, and facilitates events. She thrives on looking at a situation and figuring out how to make everything work.

Nancy Robertson is a nucleus for her friends. Just listening to her talk about fun times; who knew who first; how long she has known each person; and how they all come together in good times and bad, is enlightening and lifeaffirming. Nancy is a retired school teacher and had a second career as a medical researcher. She loves dancing with her friends! She admits dancing is a lot of work but well worth it. She says it is exhilarating when someone from the audience wants to learn to line dance.

Elison

Nancy Robertson

Charlotte Brown and Janet are sisters. Charlotte and her husband often host live concerts in their backyard. She was, naturally, the first dancer Janet recruited. Charlotte says Janet, who had both knees replaced, inspires her to keep going and not stop dancing. Charlotte worked at Tulsa Ballet where her love of dancing was nurtured. Dancing is a passion and she is excited to be in the upcoming OSG competition in September.

Rachel Davis says added benefits of line dancing are stress relief and “getting out of my comfort zone.” She calls it her “stress buster” and says performing in public definitely gets her out of her normal routine and broadens her horizons. The friendship, camaraderie, and knowing her friends support her keep her active.

Beverly Ramsey grew up with parents who did not approve of dancing. She says she is making up for it now. That made her a natural for the line dancers! After caring for her husband through his illness and until his death, she found she needed friends and socialization more than ever. Making new friends, the challenge of learning the

Charlotte Brown

dances, the pure joy of music and dancing have been her anchor. During this time, she also met her life partner, Eddie. Although his joy in dancing doesn’t match hers, he supports her and encourages her to dance!

Linda McNamara loves music and dancing. Before his death, her husband suffered from a brain tumor and a massive stroke. Linda was his primary caregiver. The experience taught her to live for now and enjoy life. Linda is a bundle of energy that exudes a fun vibe that is contagious. She loves her friends and knows where to go or who to call to share good news or when you are having a bad day. Much to her surprise and great joy, she is a newlywed of eight months.

Sherry Williams cared for her husband until his death. She turned to music and dancing to help her through. Sherry has been dancing all her life. She is a dance instructor at the Elks Club and participates in ballroom and west coast swing dancing. Sherry loves watching people enjoy dancing and their joy when they “get it right”! Getting people involved, watching as they benefit from the great exercise, and experiencing better brain health is her reward.

Where there’s a lack of knowledge there’s fear. Our complementary consultation calms the fears, removes the burden, and brings comfort to all involved.

G r e g O u r e n 32 years’ experience

Why Choose The Ouren Group?

"They make you their first priority. When you despair or something isn't going well they are on top of it with focus & lots of positive energy. The market is tight but they come through with flying colors. Very dedicated staff. Lots of laughs. Always available."

Melanie Henry

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

D o y o u n e e d t o s e l l y o u r h o m e a n d r e l o c a t e ?

Sherry believes dancing enhances your ability to focus, remember, and learn; moving to the beat of the music is rejuvenating for your body, heart and soul.

Watching these ladies perform, seeing the joy in their smiles, eyes and attitudes, listening as they share stories of their “girl trips” and fun nights out dancing is heartwarming. Their laughter is contagious! Their performances fill the spectators with hope and inspiration.

All of these ladies either have been or are currently caregivers. They know the stress, fatigue, and heartbreak of caring for a loved one. They credit music and dancing for “keeping them sane”, relieving stress, and helping them to cope. In Oklahoma, more

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

W o u l d y o u l i k e m o r e i n f o r m a t i o n a b o u t

A g i n g G r a c e f u l l y C o n c i e r g e S e r v i c e s ?

y l a o o t a m o i r a u a t o r r r o o y u l i e o e i f t i n a b u g i g G r a e f l l C n i r g e e v i c ?

Memorial Circle, Oklahoma City, OK 73142

Rachel Davis

Beverly Ramsey

half of all caregivers will predecease their care receiver. Yes, MORE than half. That is a frightening statistic. If you are a caregiver, remember that selfcare is essential and is not selfish. To care for others, you must stay healthy in body, mind and spirit.

If you want to be a part of the Oklahoma Senior Games visit their website okseniorgames.com and pick your sport. If you need instructions or have questions, contact Janet Thornton at 918-698-8461.

You never know what you can do if you don’t try.

S U P P O R T & E D U C A T I O N

F r e e o n l i n e a n d i n p e r s o n e d u c a t i o n p r o g r a m s , v i r t u a l a n d i n p e r s o n s u p p o r t g r o u p s a n d a 2 4 / 7 H e l p l i n e w i t h c l i n i c i a n s r e a d y t o h e l p

P O L I C Y & A D V O C A C Y

H e l p p a s s l a n d m a r k l e g i s l a t i o n a n d j o i n o u r n e t w o r k o f a d v o c a t e s w h o s e v o i c e s a r e c r i t i c a l t o e n g a g i n g e l e c t e d o f f i c i a l s

F U N D R A I S I N G

P a r t i c i p a t e o r v o l u n t e e r f o r o u r s i g n a t u r e e v e n t s t o r a i s e

a w a r e n e s s a n d

Sherry Williams

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

3 6 8 7

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

CAREGIVERS

O R N E R

One thing that can be delegated to a trusted individual is helping or monitoring the financials. Many older individuals struggle with paying their bills online and doing transactions via computer. This is something an individual living out of town can help with. They can help set up automatic bill payments and provide oversight to make sure the older person is not being scammed out of their money. It is important to have checks and balances on who is handling the finances so that a family member is not using it for their own personal use.

By Kathy Cocks, RN

DECREASE THE STRESS OF CAREGIVING

Caregiving is stressful. Notice my title—I did not say eliminate the stress of caregiving because that would be impossible. Recently I was helping an only child—a son—get care for his mom. He was making medical and financial decisions for another person who used to be able to make their own decisions. That’s on top of meeting an individual’s physical needs.

Sometimes adult children or other family members think that because there is a spouse or partner in the picture, the individual needing care has adequate care for them. Yet many of the spouses are also elderly, dealing with their own health problems and they need help.

The best way to decrease the stress of caregiving is to figure out what needs to be done and split up those duties. I also encourage family members to put it in writing— maybe a mass email of what each person agrees to do. It is best to develop some broad categories of what needs to be done to delegate responsibility. For instance, when a relative of mine that lived away from me needed care I took care of all the long-term care insurance claims because that was something I could do without being located physically close.

Figure out what errands need to be done and make sure someone is organizing that. Is someone in the family going to do yard work or do you need to hire someone to do that? Who is going to keep the house clean and make sure the laundry is done? If you hire companies, who is going to interview and vet them? After hiring a company make sure they did the job to your satisfaction and find out who to call if they did not.

How are the individuals going to get their groceries? Nowadays there are so many options. Many people order from an online company and have groceries delivered to their home. This would be a task someone in the family can do. With groceries, it is also important to have someone checking on the individual to make sure they are eating appropriately, and they are not leaving rotten food in the refrigerator. If an older person keeps getting stomach bugs that is a sign to check their refrigerator.

Who in the family is going to monitor an older person’s medical needs? Many times, as an older person becomes

frailer they have more doctors to visit and they have trouble remembering what is said at the appointment. One person needs to be designated to manage a person’s medical needs. I know a daughter who lives a long distance and she has a paid caregiver go with her mom to the doctor and take notes to let her know what the doctor says. Someone needs to make sure to keep track of when an individual can renew or change their Medicare plan. I recommend making a copy of all their insurance cards in case your loved one misplaces them.

Do not be afraid to check on their emotional and mental health needs. I know that many people in their eighties may not have been taught much about mental health but a discussion with them if necessary should be approached. It is normal to have some anxieties about day-to-day living or experience the blues and this does not indicate a mental health issue. If anxiety or depression interfere with a person’s ability to function in life then make sure to check with their health care professional. Just because a person is older does not mean that they should not get help or suffer.

On that note, whether you are doing a small part of caregiving, but honestly there are no small parts or taking care of someone full time do not hesitate to get help whether from friends, family, or pay for help so that you get a break.

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.

MOVE IT & USE IT OR LOSE IT

“You got to move it, move it!” That is a lyric from a song in the movie Madagascar and it says it all. Your body needs to move, every day, in every way possible for YOU. If you don’t “move it” you will lose the ability to move it. As we age, it can become more difficult to do simple tasks. Tasks we’ve always taken for granted, such as: taking the trash out; sweeping the floor; putting dishes on an upper (or lower) shelf; raking leaves; vacuuming; cleaning the tub/shower, and going for a walk. Sometimes, it seems performing simple household chores is no longer the norm. The trick is to keep “doing” every day. My family wants to wait on me. Seriously, I have to remind them that part of my daily routine is to “do stuff!” Are you uncomfortable walking outside or getting too far from home? Enlist a walking buddy or take advantage of all the wonderful health centers in Oklahoma City and use their tracks.

According to AARP research, every individual should “move it” 30 minutes daily, minimally. So sweep the floor, walk to the trash dumpster to dispose of garbage, walk to the mailbox, dance to your favorite song, do laundry, dust the furniture, water your plants, tend your garden, mow the lawn, clean out your car. Move it or lose it!

Are you worried about being forgetful? Do family and friends remind you of conversations you can’t remember?

Concerned because you can’t remember a friend’s last name? AARP Staying Sharp sighted research emphasizing the correlation between exercise and a healthier brain. According to John J. Ratey, neuropsychiatrist and associate clinical professor of psychiatry at Harvard Medical School, studies overwhelmingly point in a positive direction regarding the impact of exercise on cognitive decline. Exercise is one of the most constructive ways to boost and maintain brain health. Ratey emphasizes, “Exercise makes our brains work better, improves our thinking, memory and learning and induces brain growth as opposed to erosion.”

Want a tougher more resilient brain? Want a brain that increases growth levels which nourishes and protects cells? Try increasing

your daily exercise. Regular activity safeguards the aging brain in important ways, including, improving your mood and lowering stress. “Exercise is like taking an antidepressant,” Ratey says. Exercise helps support memory, learning and blood flow. You don’t need to run marathons or heft heavy dumbbells to see a benefit. Start with a walk every day. Don’t overdo it. Increase your walk naturally. You know when you can add another five minutes to your walks. Start with ten minutes once or twice daily; work your way up to 30 minutes once or twice daily. When you reach 30 minutes, take time to assess. Do you feel better overall? Do you sleep better? Did you lose a pound or two? Do you feel less stressed, less depressed? Did you meet a neighbor on your walks?

Keep a diary. Note changes in your physical, mental and emotional health. How has exercising changed or enhanced your life? Remember, you got to “move it”!

QUESTIONS ABOUT MEDICARE?

The Oklahoma Insurance Department’s MEDICARE ASSISTANCE PROGRAM can answer your questions.

We provide unbiased counseling and assistance for Medicare beneficiaries, their representatives, or people who will soon be eligible for Medicare.

We can give you the latest information about:

• Medicare Parts A and B

• Medicare Advantage Plans

• Part D Prescription Drug Benefits

• Medicare Supplemental Insurance

• Medicare Fraud Prevention and Detection

• Low Income Assistance for Prescriptions and Medicare Premiums

Groovy Groovy

Written by Medicare Jet-Setters

Strebel Creek Vineyard

11521

N. MacArthur, OKC, OK 73162

Who knew that right in the middle of OKC sits an oasis for wine lovers and boutique shoppers to enjoy? Neil and I discovered Strebel Creek Vineyard, and we will be back. The setting is peaceful, the wine is smooth, and the gift shop contains unique items. I challenge any woman who browses the boutique not to find something she can’t live without. Dr. Gary Strebel and his wife, Sherry, own and run Strebel Creek Vineyard. Dr. Strebel is a practicing OB/GYN physician and a hobby winemaker until he turned his hobby into a business for the masses to enjoy. They grow grapes at the winery and import grapes from Arkansas and California. For some excellent wines, a fantastic gift shop, a relaxing patio, and a delightful conversation with Debbie or Dr. Strebel and his wife Sherry visit Strebel Creek Vineyard.

Farfalla Wines

505

Poplar Avenue, Yukon, Oklahoma 73099

When you get up and go to discover new places in Oklahoma, sometimes you stumble upon a diamond. Farfalla Winery is that sparkling jewel. We entered the impeccably clean and cheerful tasting room. We could see the shiny silver wine vats in a room off to the side. Michelle’ Hart, the tasting room and office manager, flashed us her million-dollar smile and made us feel right at home with her groovy personality. Michelle’ is very knowledgeable and turns your experience into a fun adventure. She handed us the list of options for our tasting experience. There are three tastings available. The Dry Tasting for $4.00. The Semi-Sweet Tasting for $15.00. The Complete Tasting costs $20.00 and includes a souvenir glass and bonus samples. The label bursts forth on each bottle of wine with a colorful butterfly. The butterfly is the Farfalla logo.

Neil Johnson and Shelley Stutchman

Some of the sweetest adventures in the area. Live music, great food and and excellent wine are guaranteed when you visit one of these local wineries.

Michelle’ explained to me Farfalla is the Italian word for butterfly. Another Farfalla plus is the beautiful pool and outdoor seating you can sit and relax with your wine of choice. Neil’s favorite wine was the Strawberry Riesling. Neil loves strawberries and said he would enjoy this refreshing blend this summer while watching hummingbirds as we sit and sip from our front porch. The Peach Chardonnay was my favorite. The scent of ripe peaches explodes as you inhale the bouquet. Get up and go to the Farfalla Winery this summer.

The Flower Shop Winery & Pizzeria

629

W Main St, Yukon, OK 73099

Pizza and wine and everything is fine; this is how we felt when we visited The Flower Shop Winery & Pizzeria in Yukon. The wines we tasted were groovy, and the pizza was outstanding especially the flakey, light, buttery crust! Neil and I shared a wine flight tasting of The cost was only $8.50. Our favorite was Pinot Noir. Neil and I toured Willamette Valley in Oregon. Willamette Valley boasts of the best Pinot Noir in the nation. We were so happy to taste Yukon’s Pinot Noir of The Flower Shop. It was the first bottle of Pinot Noir we had ever found to compare to the wines we had in Oregon. They named this wine Charming Beauty, and the flower on the label is a Gladiolus Nanus. Neil and I agree. This wine is charming, and it is a beauty. You guessed it, a bottle of this wine went home with us. As we were enjoying our pizza and wine, I sneezed. A gentleman in the room said, “God Bless You.” I love small-town America, where people still say that when you sneeze.

Shakespeare Wine Company 524 West Kansas Avenue, Chickasha, Oklahoma 73018

Shakespeare Wine Company is Veteran owned. We explained to owner Cheri Jenks we were Medicare Jet-Setters and loved how she made Shakespeare Wine Company senior-friendly. The bar stools have backs, the music is soft and has an old-time Las Vegas lounge sound, and the bathroom has grab bars. The bathroom is so large you could easily get a wheelchair or walker inside. Cheri explained, “We like a laid-back atmosphere in the late afternoon to early evening. Then in the evening hours, it becomes livelier.”

The atmosphere has a strong pull to bring the romantic out in couples. I kissed my husband, and it was the sweetest kiss ever. The sip of their Austen sweet white, infused with ripe peaches, lingered on his lips. I would rename this the kissing wine. The food at Shakespeare Wine Company should be on the best-seller list. The owner baked the French Brie perfectly and drizzled it with Oklahoma honey. Yum! Another one of our favorite sweet white wines was the Zora. In this wine, your tongue will tingle with notes of pineapple and pears. This combination makes for an incredibly refreshing choice. The final wine we bought was Midnight in Paris. Neil called this a celebration wine because of the delicious dark chocolate notes. Be groovy, take a day trip, and support this Veteran owned winery.

The movie, Jesus Revolution, is a true story that begins in 1968 and leads you on a journey into the 1970s. A Southern California pastor, Chuck Smith, played by Kelsey Grammar, is preaching to an almost empty church because he cannot connect with the live-free generation of hippies. Eventually, the Pastor opens his doors to his church after hippie Lonnie Frisbee looks the Pastor in the eyes and says, “Pastor, we are an entire generation searching for God. Look at us with love. We are sheep without a shepherd, and all the churches have closed their doors to us.”

The Pastor knows the hippie is right. He welcomes them into his church, filling the almost empty pews to overflowing. The Jesus Freak revolution begins.

Many of the regular congregation members are upset by the Pastor welcoming the hippies. My favorite line in the movie is when one of the church members says, “Preacher, we just got a new carpet in our building, and these hippies with their bare feet are ruining our carpet.”

The preacher answers, “Are we in the business of saving carpets?”

This film is polished, has a great storyline, and does it all without being too preachy.

I expected to enjoy this movie as a walk down memory lane. I enjoyed the clothing styles, music, painted VW vans, and phrases like love and peace, dig it, square, and right on. My surprise came from the joy and the renewed hope I felt watching Jesus Revolution.

By Carolyn Cummings

“Well Preserved with Eunice Khoury” is the longest-running senior-focused program in Oklahoma. The radio program airs on News Radio 1000AM KTOK every Saturday morning at 9:00am. You can also follow the show on iHeart radio. IHeart Media is a free app that can be downloaded on any smartphone or computer.

For many years, Well Preserved had a game called “Tag the Tahoe”. The Chevy Tahoe was found at various locations and listeners called in to win cash. The Tahoe was reaching 300,000 miles and Eunice decided to retire the Tahoe from the radio show. The ‘Tag the Tahoe’ game ran for over four years, giving out over $25,000 to many loyal listeners.

To replace this program, Well Preserved started “Pay Back Saturday” in 2022. “Pay Back Saturday” honors local nonprofits that serve seniors in our area. Every quarter, a nonprofit is selected by a committee, and they are awarded a check for $1,200.00.

Our 4th quarter winner for 2023 is D-Dent. The program provides oral health assistance and free care for the Disabled and Elderly in need of dental treatment for the entire state. A network of Dentists and Hygienists volunteer their services for low-income, disabled, and uninsured seniors (age 60 and over). Ken Young, CEO of D-Dent, was a guest on Well Preserved on April 1st. D-Dent assisted with an event at Crossings Community Clinic/Good Shepard. They were able to provide dental service to 31 veterans with the help of “Pay Back Saturday”.

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In December of 2022, the recipient Was Full Circle Adult Day Care in Norman, OK. Their mission is to support and enrich the lives of seniors and people with disabilities, their family, and their community. They provide health monitoring and activities that stimulate an individual physically, cognitively, creatively, emotionally, and socially. Their services prevent or delay institutionalization by keeping people at home and in the community. They currently serve 100 people per year.

In September of 2022, the winner was Project Life serving the greater Oklahoma City area. Project Life is a non-profit through the OKC Fire Department. As Firefighters, the mission is to raise awareness of fire and life hazards in our community and provide solutions that reduce risk. Smoke

am forever grateful to have had Connie to sell my home, and, also helped me in purchasing my current home. She has a heart for her clients and invaluable expertise in the entire process! Thank you, Connie!

Frances Baker

Frances Baker

alarms aid in the prevention of injury and loss of life from fire. Over 3,000 smoke alarms were provided and installed this last year with the Project Life program.

Our very 1st winner was Nana’s Closet. Their mission is to help parents/ grandparents who are thrust back into their second round of raising children due to drugs and many other circumstances. Unfortunately, a lot of grandparents are in the middle of retiring or have retired so getting their grandkids is a big financial burden. Nana’s Closet is set up to help with sudden needs such as diapers, clothes, car seats, toys, etc. They now have a storefront provided by a local church where the children can “shop” for themselves. Nana’s Closet is solely funded by donations and is free of charge to grandparents.

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.

FIVE LOCATIONS TO SERVE YOU

FAMILY CAREGIVERS

BY THE NUMBERS

However, many caregivers are informal, family caregivers who are not paid for their services, but step in to help someone they love. Here's a look at some of the numbers regarding family caregivers, courtesy of the National Alliance for Caregiving, AARP, GallupHealthways Well-Being Index, Respect Care Givers, and the career experts at Zippia.

53 million: the number of Americans who are providing unpaid care to a family member or a friend.

9.5 million: the amount by which caregiver numbers increased between 2015 and 2020.

1 in 5: the number of Americans who are caregivers.

22: the percentage of caregivers who are middle-aged.

46: the average age of an employed caregiver.

70: the percentage of working caregivers who suffer work-related difficulties due to their dual roles.

34.7: the number of hours employed caregivers works each week, not including caregiver services.

70.7: the percentage of family caregivers who are women (29.3 percent are men).

88: the percentage of caregivers residing in urban or suburban areas.

69: the percentage of caregivers caring for parents or parents-in-law. Fifty-one percent care for a spouse or partner.

However, many caregivers caregivers who are in to help someone the numbers regarding National Alliance Healthways Well-Being and the career experts the number unpaid care to a family the amount increased between the number the percentage the average age the percentage work-related difficulties the number each week, not including the percentage women (29.3 percent the percentage suburban areas. the percentage parents-in-law. Fifty-one partner.

Caregivers come from all walks of life, even if people may be most likely to associate caregiving with the paid professionals who work as home health aides or in nursing care settings.

However, many caregivers are informal, family caregivers who are not paid for their services, but step in to help someone they love. Here’s a look at some of the numbers regarding family caregivers, courtesy of the National Alliance for Caregiving, AARP, Gallup-Healthways Well-Being Index, Respect Care Givers, and the career experts at Zippia.

53 million: the number of Americans who are providing unpaid care to a family member or a friend.

9.5 million: the amount by which caregiver numbers increased between 2015 and 2020.

1 in 5: the number of Americans who are caregivers.

22: the percentage of caregivers who are middle-aged.

46: the average age of an employed caregiver.

70: the percentage of working caregivers who suffer work-related difficulties due to their dual roles.

34.7: the number of hours employed caregivers works each week, not including caregiver services.

70.7: the percentage of family caregivers who are women (29.3 percent are men).

88: the percentage of caregivers residing in urban or suburban areas.

69: the percentage of caregivers caring for parents or In-laws. Fifty-one percent care for a spouse or partner.

THAT’S THE WARMTH OF FRIENDSHIP YOU’RE FEELING

Summer recalls carefree days, walks in the sun, reading a book under the shade tree, spending all day with friends. Feeling good! Well, summer’s here and the time is ripe for living independently, with just the right amount of assistance, in the life-enriching company of friends. At Lionwood Independent Living, it’s a season of wellness, fun, and experiencing new things. Experience it for yourself on a private tour.

Feel

You’re invited to learn something new!

Thursday, June 22 1:00PM

Beware: New Tactics in Online and Phone Scams

Thursday, June 29 11:00AM or 4:00PM

You May Be Entitled to VA Aid & Attendance Benefits

By Deputy Tara Hardin, Oklahoma County Sheriff

BEWARE OF SCAMMERS

According to the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3.gov), fraud against seniors is up 84% from 2021 to 2022. The fraud resulting in the highest overall dollar value loss was Investment Fraud with nearly $1B in losses. Second in dollar value loss but first in the number of incidents reported is that of Tech Support scams. This one is hitting our area particularly hard with significant dollar losses.

In today’s world, it is imperative that you have virus protection software and that you keep your devices up to date. And don’t forget your phone is also a computer device - it too needs to have virus protection software and be kept up to date. But no matter what protection software you choose, always remember that they do not know you are having an issue with your device unless YOU contact THEM. If you get a pop-up on your computer or tablet stating you have been locked out of your device for security reasons and to call the number provided - do NOT call the number - it is a scam! Please keep the contact information for your software protection written down elsewhere and only use that number to contact them if you have problems with your device - never the number you are being told to call.

Additionally, if you get this pop-up, the device has already been compromised so any attempts you make to look up the number for your virus protection company will only re-route you to the scammer’s phone number. That is why you need to have it written down or look up the contact on a different device.

The scammers, fraudsters, and hackers are getting to us in so many different ways that it is hard to know where the pop-up first was installed on your computer but suffice it to say you have at some point in time clicked on something you shouldn’t have which gave them access to send this pop-up to you. Practicing good cyber hygiene and keeping up to date on the latest scams and frauds is a neverending learning process and is why I encourage you to attend one of our free monthly lessons either in-person or online. You can get information on the times and locations of the 20 in-person classes by calling our office at 405-869-2567. For the online option, you can access the class by going to www.metrotech.edu/events and click on the Crime Prevention Series. These classes are available as a webinar at your convenience.

Additionally, the Oklahoma County Sheriff’s Office will be hosting a 3-day Fraud Prevention Conference along with the FBI and the Oklahoma Insurance Department at Metro Tech’s Springlake campus this summer. We have both local and national speakers who will be teaching the latest frauds and scams and giving you practical tips on how you can avoid becoming a victim. The dates for the conference are June 23, July 14, and July 28. Each day will cover a new topic so plan to attend all three days from 9am to 4pm. You can get more information on registration by calling 405-869-2567.

Are You Looking To Improve Your Patient Survey Rating?

US Healthcare Research is a CMS authorized home health and hospice CAHPS vendor that provides highquality patient satisfaction surveys and CAHPS program compliance at a low cost to your agency. We work one-onone with clients to review and help improve their Patient Survey Rating. We offer 24-hour account manager to familiarize clients with HHCAHPS/CAHPS program and how to help improve all aspects.

HOW WE SERVE YOUR AGENCY:

• Our surveys are performed in-house, allowing us to maintain a high level of quality control and a high response rate.

• A personal account manager, quarterly reviews of the scores, and help to improve those scores.

• Real-time reporting, updated as surveys are completed. No more waiting for a month or even a quarter for the reports to update.

• Some of the lowest prices in the industry and competitor price matching.

• U.S. Healthcare Research has been a CMS authorized Home Health CAHPS vendor since 2012 and continues to push the envelope of data science and research.

• We make CMS compliance easy and allow you to put the focus back on you and your patients.

www.ushcrc.com

To truly serve your patients, you must know what they are thinking. We know what your patients are thinking. We ask them thousands of times a year!

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

Employee of the Month

“I really enjoy working for ComForCare Home Care. It really helps when you enjoy the client that you serve. I really enjoy working for a company that has a lot of flexibility.”

MAY 2023

Employee of the Month

“What I like most is being able to see my patients every day. I like helping them with their needs, talking & laughing with them daily. I like just being able to be there for them. I feel like my job is what makes me the happiest in my life.”

By Charles Lillard, Oklahoma County Master Gardener

THE TASTE OF SUMMER: GROWING TOMATOES

You are a caregiver. Your tomatoes need you. We plant our vegetables either by seed or transplants. Root crops or legumes like beans or peas don’t benefit from transplanting. So the rule on those crops is plant the seed to a depth of 2 to 3 times the size of the seed. That would be the proper planting depth. July is a good time to plant beans, corn, eggplant, peppers, pumpkin, squash, and a host of other warm-season crops.

If you planted tomatoes as transplants in April, you may be harvesting a few tomatoes by now. Days to harvest are generally 70-90 days. Tomato is a crop where transplanting is recommended. You can transplant small or more mature tomato plants. I plant my tomatoes from less mature plants because it cost less. Therefore crop failure is not as expensive. Another decision is, will you plan determinate or indeterminate plants? Determinant tomatoes will grow to a certain height and produce fruit for a season. Indeterminate plants are vines. They will continue to grow and continue to produce fruit. If you are growing tomatoes in a container, determinate would be your best choice. I always plant a few of each. There are a plethora of choices when it comes to varieties. Some produce small fruit and some large. You can investigate varieties by going to osufacts.okstate. edu and search for tomato varieties.

Tomatoes should be grown in full sunlight and planted away from trees and shrubs. I know this, but my yard does not allow this. So I plant my tomatoes as far as I can from the shade of my large tree. Tomatoes need space to remain healthy. Two to four feet between rows is recommended. Plant the transplants slightly deeper than they were first growing. If the plants are leggy, remove the lower stems. During the month of June, the plants will need a recommended 1 inch of water per week. During July they will need two inches of water per week. They would like a pH of about 6.5. They use nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium in appropriate amounts. A soil sample will show you what your soil provides. If you fertilize without knowing what they need you are only guessing. I find that generally, my soil needs nitrogen. I put a small amount of blood meal around the plants to provide this. Too much nitrogen will create heavy vegetative growth and poor fruit set. Fertilizer applied at planting time will not supply adequate nutrients for the entire season.

Fertilize at the time when the first fruits appear. Mix the fertilizer into the soil then water, being careful not to get the fertilizer on the foliage.

Weeds compete for soil moisture and nutrients and serve as places for harmful insects to reside. Mulching can reduce hand weeding and hoeing. Tomatoes may need to be staked or caged. The wind can do damage. During warm weather, tomato fruit should be harvested twice a week. The red color in tomato fruit does not form when temperatures are above 86°F. I harvest fruit when it starts to turn pink and before birds can do their damage.

The first bacon and tomato sandwich of the season is something to celebrate. Enjoy!

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

Your friends at ADVANCED BODY SCAN want you to know...

Today we want to talk to you about something that could very well save your life or that of your loved ones – Advanced Body Scan’s - Full Body Scan. As a caregiver, stress, genetics, years of labor, and even delays in our own healthcare can often lead to health challenges or confusion. You know that discovering and addressing medical issues as early as possible is what makes all the difference. And that’s exactly what a Full Body Scan can do. By identifying potential problems before they become late-stage and serious, you can take direct action to prevent expensive and dangerous complications.

How does a Full Body Scan work?

Essentially, it’s a special kind of medical scan that creates images of your internal organs in 3D, allowing for more accurate detection of abnormalities. The process is painless, non-invasive, and takes only 5 minutes in the scanner.

So, what are the benefits of doing a full body scan?

To start, it can help detect hundreds of types of cancer early, often even before you experience symptoms, when it’s most treatable. Many forms of cancer, such as lung cancer or pancreatic cancer, can be incredibly difficult to identify in their early stages, leading to delayed treatment and worse outcomes. With a full body scan, however, it’s possible to catch these potential threats early on, allowing for more effective treatment options and a much better chance at survival.

Additionally, a Full Body Scan can detect other conditions such as heart disease, stroke, osteoporosis, and more. By pinpointing these issues early on, you can catch them at the point of an inconvenience and take steps to prevent them from worsening - whether that’s through lifestyle changes, medication, or other interventions. It’s a small investment that can pay off in big ways for your health in the long run.

Another key benefit of a full body scan is peace of mind. As a caregiver struggling to manage your own health alongside that of someone else, anxiety can be a constant companion. A full body scan can give you the reassurance that you’re doing everything possible to stay on top of your health and minimize

any potential risks. It’s a proactive step that can empower you to take control of your well-being.

Why am I not already doing this?

More than 100,000 people have already taken control of their health and well-being with a preventive Advanced Body Scan. Our founder is on a mission to make life-saving prevention affordable for regular working people in Oklahoma. We are a family company, born and raised in Oklahoma. We are proud to offer our prevention packages in multiple states, but our OKC office will always be our flagship facility, our headquarters, and our home.

Casting a wide net over the body to take a wide look at any potential issues with the Full Body Scan is the most powerful single tool we know of that caregivers can use to ensure their own health and well-being against the most frequent deadly diseases. By detecting potential issues early on and taking steps to address them, you can minimize risks, increase peace of mind, and save potentially huge healthcare costs in the future. For many caregivers, a full body scan can be a lifesaving routine that makes all the difference in their health and happiness. Visit www.AdvancedBodyScan.com

Anita and her husband purchased a scan at the State Fair. Anita had no symptoms that anything may be wrong and was shocked when the scan discovered cancer in her kidney. Now Anita would like everyone to hear her story.

“I wouldn’t be here today without my scan. My kidney was full of cancer and had I waited it would have gone into my bloodstream. I recommend everyone be proactive with their health and get a scan.”

~ Anita Skelton

Remember When...

Remember when you couldn’t wait to read the Sunday paper because that is the only day that inclduded “the Funnies”?

Remember when the last week of school dragged by so slowly you thought you would never make it. There was no air conditioning so you just had to suffer in silence until the end of the day?

Remember when we spent hours playing in the barn. I remember building a fort behind the bales of straw and my dad got so upset when he realized there was only half as much straw as he thought because of the tunnels and rooms we had built.

Remember when summer meant going to the campgrounds and eating fire-roasted hot dogs and making s’mores with all the cousins?

Summer Was FUN?

Remember when you were told to “go outside” and not come back in until lunch time? We spent hours making forts, building ramps and digging for treasure.

Remember when Gym class included lifeskills including archery and even how to tie your pants together and fill the legs with air to turn them into a life jacket in case you ever needed to stay afloat?

Remember when getting some potatoes meant digging in the dirt with a shovel until you had enough for dinner, and if you got hungry you went to the tomato patch and picked one, eating it like an apple?

Remember when we spent Saturday night at the drive-in movies spending time with friends and trying not to fall asleep before the big kid movie came on?

This new treatment is covered by Medicare, Medicaid, the VA and most private Insurances. Call Today.

This new treatment is covered by Medicare, Medicaid, the VA and most private Insurances. Call Today.

This new treatment is covered by Medicare, Medicaid, the VA and most private Insurances. Call Today.

Over 80% of patients report a significant reduction in pain. So don’t feel trapped by pain or loss of balance. Get back to moving and exercising with your family and friends.

Over 80% of patients report a significant reduction in pain. So don’t feel trapped by pain or loss of balance. Get back to moving and exercising with your family and friends. View

Over 80% of patients report a significant reduction in pain. So don’t feel trapped by pain or loss of balance. Get back to moving and exercising with your family and friends.