NOW RECRUITING FOR THE FOLLOWING CLINICAL TRIALS:
Mild to Moderate Alzhe
Alzheimer’s w/ Agitation
Pediatric Migraine (Ages 6-11)
The glass conservatory at Woodward Park was built by Lina Jane and James Arthur Hull in 1924.
Pollinators are vital to our food supply, but many species are declining due to habitat loss, climate change, and pesticide use. Find out how to create a haven for these essential creatures.
BY JOEY MECHELLE FARQU É
On the Cover
Gerry Weber, Kathleen Mowry, and Marcia Lockhart tend the OSU Extension Center garden at 4116 E. 15th St. in Tulsa.
PHOTO BY STEVEN MICHAEL HALL
Want your garden to thrive this season? Explore the latest trends — from apps to multi-generational planting — to take your landscape to the next level.
BY JULIE WENGER WATSON
Transform your yard into a birdfriendly oasis. With the right mix of feeders, food, and natural elements, your outdoor space can become a haven for feathered visitors.
BY JULIE ALEXANDER, ASSISTANT EDITOR
Learn from the best! A Tulsa Master Gardener shares expert advice to help your garden flourish for years to come.
BY DIANE HAMBRIC
Eileen
eileen.bradshaw@LIFEseniorservices.org
Dear Vintage Reader,
It’s the gardening issue! Few things are more satisfying than seeing a plant emerge from a seed or bulb. The sheer mystery of it never ceases to amaze me.
We moved to a new home this past summer, leaving my beloved flowery courtyard behind. We are starting anew, learning the light and shadows of our new place, trying to find the correct specimen for each spot. We inherited some beautiful plants from the previous owner, and this spring has been fun as we learn what surprises the garden has to reveal.
(918)
We have added slowly to the landscape, bringing in personal favorites and trying some new things. I found a plant at the Farmers Market called “Hummingbird’s Lunch” and am watching it in earnest to see if it will attract those elusive little friends. Hoping so!
Whether you have an acreage or a pot in a windowsill, there are so many joys to be found in the garden. Gardening reinforces the practice of delayed gratification in an ondemand world and reminds us that all things precious needn’t be expensive.
Happy spring!
Vol. 39, No. 11
EILEEN BRADSHAW
President & CEO of LIFE Senior Services, LIFE PACE & Vintage Housing
DEE DUREN
Managing Editor dduren@LIFEseniorservices.org
BERNIE DORNBLASER
Advertising Director
bdornblaser@LIFEseniorservices.org
ALLISON EZELL
Advertising Sales Representative aezell@LIFEseniorservices.org
LEAH WEIGLE
Graphic Designer
JULIE ALEXANDER
Assistant Editor jalexander@LIFEseniorservices.org
CAROL CARTER
Copy Editor
KELLY KIRCHHOFF
Communications Director
STAN DIACON
Community Distribution
LIFE’s Vintage Magazine accepts advertising to defray the cost of production and distribution, and appreciates the support of its advertisers. The publisher does not specifically endorse advertisers or their products or services. LIFE’s Vintage Magazine reserves the right to refuse advertising. Rates are available upon request by calling (918) 664-9000.
© LIFE’s Vintage Magazine and LIFE Senior Services, Inc., 2025. All rights reserved. Reproduction without consent of the publisher is prohibited.
Volume 39, Issue 11, May 2025
LIFE’s Vintage Magazine (ISSN 2168-8494) (USPS 18320) is published monthly by LIFE Senior Services. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to LIFE’S VINTAGE MAGAZINE 5950 E. 31st St., Tulsa, OK 74135. Periodicals postage paid at Tulsa, OK.
By Julie Alexander, Assistant Editor
The Tulsa Garden Club presents the 74th annual garden tour from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday, May 10. The tour allows the public to enjoy some of Tulsa’s most beautiful gardens in their prime. The self-guided tour educates visitors and advances the art of gardening, horticulture, landscape design, and environmental science. The homeowners and their team work for months to prepare their green spaces for the tour. Proceeds from the tour benefit the Tulsa Garden Club, Tulsa Garden Center projects, and other local education efforts. Tickets can be purchased at the first home you visit on the tour or at the Tulsa Garden Center, 2435 S. Peoria Ave., through May 9th. In addition to the garden tour, your $25 ticket will allow you entry into the Designer Showcase home. Tickets are also available on eventbrite.com.
Tulsa Garden Club Garden Tour
Saturday, May 10, 2025
Various locations
(918) 625-1161
tulsagardenclub.org
The annual Paseo Arts Festival is a fundraiser to support programs through the Paseo Arts Association of Oklahoma City. Visitors can enjoy over 50 live performances on two stages including jazz, blues, pop, and rock. More than 20 food and drink vendors will be on hand and local artists will be selling their wares. The festival provides a diverse range of art forms including painting, sculpture, jewelry, pottery, and more. The Paseo was built in the late 1920s and was the first shopping district north of downtown. The Spanish revival architecture with original stucco buildings and clay tile roofs are still intact, and the Paseo is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. It is home to over 20 art galleries and boutiques. The arts festival provides a wonderful opportunity to discover new artists and the vibrant arts community in Oklahoma City.
The Paseo Arts Festival
May 24 – 26, 2025
3024 Paseo, Oklahoma City (405) 525-2688 thepaseo.org
The arts district in downtown Tulsa will once again host the annual Mayfest spring arts festival May 9 – 11. This tradition of more than 50 years brings together visual artists and musical performers from around the world to sell their wares and perform on the many stages. Food vendors and nearby restaurants provide ample dining opportunities, and the Kids’ World will tap into the artistic juices of children with arts and crafts, face painting, inflatables, and more. Artists include potters, jewelry makers, painters, and sculptors. Musical performers this year include artists Kaitlin Butts and Madison Ryann Ward. Admission is free.
Tulsa Mayfest
May 9 – 11, 2025
101 E. Archer St., Tulsa tulsamayfest.org
The CITGO Alumni Group is hosting its 7th annual charity golf tournament on June 2 at MeadowBrook Country Club. Money raised supports the programs of the Muscular Dystrophy Association and helps pay for children with MD to attend summer camp. The camp experience allows children to connect with nature, develop life skills, and form lifelong friendships. The CITGO Alumni Group consists of retirees based in Tulsa who carry on the work of their former employer and provide funds for kids who want to attend the camp. The team scramble is $680 per foursome or $170 per single and includes green fees, cart, range balls, two mulligans, and lunch. For more information, contact Kent Powers at (918) 729-0086 or kent. powers09@gmail.com.
MDA Golf Tournament
Monday, June 2
MeadowBrook Country Club 9300 E. 81st St., Tulsa (918) 729-0086
TUESDAY, JULY 8, 2025
8:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. Exchange Center at Expo Square 4145 E 21st St., Tulsa
Sign up today for Oklahoma’s premiere event for reaching older adults and family caregivers.
Don’t miss Oklahoma’s largest senior event filled with information, products, and services for today’s older adults. With over 150 exhibitors, there’s something for everyone!
REGISTER FOR A BOOTH, go to www.LIFEseniorservices.org/senior-expo or call Carol Carter at (918) 664-9000, ext. 1219.
• The Expo Stage emceed by Lori Fullbright from News On 6
• AARP Shredding Event, 9 a.m. – Noon, east of the Exchange Center
• Rx Take Back – Taking back expired and/or unwanted drugs for safe disposal
• Seek, Find, WIN! Play for one of ten $100 Reasor’s gift cards.
• Rescue Pets for Adoption and Paw Pals Therapy Dogs
• Free health screenings
• Free grocery totes for the first 500 people
• Free parking lot shuttles
By Carrie Clevenger, Senior Center Director
LIFE Senior Services
Community Education
All classes are at Legacy Plaza East Conference Center, 5330 E. 31st St. in Tulsa, unless otherwise noted.
The Alzheimer’s Experience
Thursday, May 15 • 2 – 4 p.m.
Have you ever wondered what it’s like to have Alzheimer’s disease? Or, have you become impatient with a loved one with dementia because of their declining physical and cognitive abilities? Join us for a 20- to 30-minute Virtual Dementia Tour and discussion that will help you better understand the cognitive and physical changes that come with the disease. Once you register, we will contact you to set your specific tour time.
Tuesday, May 27, • 10 – 11 a.m.
Master Gardener Karen Watkins will introduce us to pollinators that that are native to our local ecosystems, discuss which plants with allseason blooms will best attract them, and talk about why we want these beautiful invertebrates in our backyards and neighborhoods.
Wednesday, June 4 • 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.
OU Schusterman Center
4444 E. 41st St. • Tulsa
Tulsa area professionals and community members are invited to this free conference focused on aging well and in place. Attend keynote presentations by Dr. Frances Wen and Suzy Sharp, along with breakout sessions on palliative care, home safety, estate and financial planning, the new Oklahoma Advance Directive, maximizing hospice benefits, and the Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE). This event provides valuable insights and resources for social work and counseling professionals, as well as anyone interested in aging with dignity and support. Register online at https://forms. hospiceofgreencountry.org/aging-in-placeconference-registration. Presented by Hospice of Green Country.
Ready to find your creative flow? Pottery classes offer a unique and enriching experience for individuals exploring their creativity and craftsmanship. Whether you’re a complete beginner or a seasoned artist, working with clay provides an opportunity to express yourself in a hands-on and tangible way.
Pottery involves a deep connection between mind and material, where you can mold, shape, and transform raw clay into functional and artistic pieces. The process of creating pottery encourages focus, patience, and mindfulness, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the moment.
One of the key benefits of engaging in creative activities like pottery is the positive impact it has on mental health and wellbeing. Creativity offers an outlet for self-expression, helping to reduce stress, anxiety, and even improve mood. As you
focus on shaping a piece of clay, the world outside fades, giving you a sense of calm and relaxation.
Pottery also stimulates problem-solving and critical thinking skills as you work through challenges related to form, texture, and glazing. The act of creating something with your own hands can be deeply satisfying, fostering a sense of accomplishment and boosting self-esteem.
LIFE’s Active Senior Center began regular pottery classes in the fall of 2024. An art exhibition featuring pottery created by members will take place May 13 – 22, 2025, at LIFE’s Active Senior Center at Roma Berry, 4821 S. 72nd E. Ave. A reception for the artists will take place on May 15 at 3 p.m.
We hope you will join us and discover for yourself what members are creating at the Active Senior Center.
Pottery Drop-Off Dates: May 2 – 12, 2025
Show Dates: May 13 – 22, 2025
Art will be on display in the lounge during the show dates. To submit a piece, please visit the front desk to fill out the appropriate paperwork. Submissions are limited to three per person. A reception will take place on May 15 at 3 p.m. in the lounge. You can pick up your pieces after the show, starting on May 23. All pieces must be picked up by May 28.
LIFE’s Vintage Magazine is a monthly, award-winning publication designed especially for adults 55+, filled with interesting articles, columns and stories that will keep you informed, involved and entertained.
for LIFE’s Vintage Magazine and receive a digital cookbook EMAILED straight to your inbox!
Subscribe Online Today LIFEseniorservices.org or call (918) 664-9000 You’ve always wanted to change the world – Give 5 can help you do it.
Learn about Tulsa’s opportunities and challenges while seeing nonprofits that work to address these issues. Invest one day a week for five weeks and explore the best way you can make an impact by volunteering in retirement.
• 1 piece wood plank wall paper • 2 seed starting pots
• 1 5x10 piece of lightweight scrap wood
To learn more or enroll in an upcoming Give 5 class, call (918) 664-9000 or visit LIFEseniorservices.org.
• Brown acrylic or chalk paint
• Fake boxwood or other greenery
• Hot glue Wednesday, May 14 • 3:30 p.m. On LIFE’s Facebook Page
If you are located in Wagoner County and are interested in making a difference in a child’s life, CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates) is looking for volunteers just like you. CASA volunteers advocate for children in the foster care system, building a one-on-one relationship with them through visits, quality time, and listening. CASA volunteers help provide a voice for children in foster care, ensuring that the court understands the child’s unique needs and life circumstances.
The next volunteer training class begins in May, and we would love for you to join us on this rewarding journey. This summer training will allow volunteers to be ready to accept a case and help a child just as they are about to return to school. All classes consist of 15 hours of classroom training combined with 15 hours of online training at home and three hours of courtroom observation.
For more information or to sign up, contact Wagoner County Volunteer Coordinator Rhonda Moore at rmoore@LIFEseniorservices.org or (918) 404-8578.
LIFE’s Give 5 program is enrolling participants for 2025 sessions. If you are interested in learning more about volunteer opportunities in Tulsa, consider signing up for Give 5. Each Give 5 cohort meets from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. every Wednesday for five weeks. Participants enjoy engaging presentations from nonprofits and groups that are doing great things in our community with the help of volunteers. They then board LIFE’s bus to visit nonprofits and have a behind-the-scenes look at what volunteering with them is like. To enroll for the next session or a future session, visit LIFEseniorservices.org/give5.
By Danielle Hill, Senior Volunteer Manager
The Happy Hands volunteers knit, crochet, and craft gifts for people in need — one of several volunteer opportunities available in Creek County.
Creek County offers many volunteer opportunities for seniors to help others while enhancing their own lives and increasing feelings of self-worth with valuable work.
Kellyville, Kiefer, Mannford, Mounds, Oilton, and Sapulpa all have senior centers where volunteers provide and serve food and distribute meals that are taken to in-need seniors. Each center also provides activities and games that promote friendly social interactions.
Ascension St. John Hospital in Sapulpa has a busy group of volunteers who run the gift shop and direct people to their appointments. The funds generated by the gift shop are donated to help the hospital. Sapulpa has two first-class museums, Sapulpa Historical Museum and the Heart of Route 66 Auto Museum. Volunteers can be docents or help with displays, research, or do jobs that are needed to keep the museums open.
The Happy Hands group consists of people who meet weekly in Sapulpa to knit, crochet,
sew, and craft items like hats, scarves, bears, and lap robes, for children and seniors. Crafters who work from home also contribute greatly. Meals on Wheels volunteers deliver nourishing meals and provide friendly greetings and safety checks for vulnerable neighbors in need. Participants can serve as little as one or two hours a week or be a substitute driver.
CASA trains volunteers to be advocates for children who are in foster care. They are a needed voice for children in the court system. Oklahoma Home and Community Education (OHCE) volunteers meet monthly and are committed to community service and strengthening families in partnership with the OSU Extension Service.
Creek County Literacy Program volunteer tutors help both children and adults learn to read. Training and ongoing support are provided. Sapulpa Community Theatre provides family-friendly plays. Volunteers can help in many areas both on stage and behind the scenes.
Would you like more information about volunteer opportunities in Creek County?
To volunteer with these programs or to explore other volunteer options, contact Danielle at (918) 938-7635 or dhill@LIFEseniorservices.org.
LIFE helps seniors find fulfilling volunteer opportunities throughout Northeastern Oklahoma. Contact LIFE’s Creek County Volunteer Office for more information.
Penny Woolery
LIFE Senior Services, Creek County Volunteer Coordinator (918) 227-3844 • pwoolery@LIFEseniorservices.org
The honey that comes straight from a beehive and the honey you buy in a grocery store are not the same. Most store-bought honey is pasteurized, meaning it has been heated to 160 F and then rapidly cooled. This process destroys many of honey’s natural nutrients without offering any food safety benefits. While pasteurization may slow crystallization, it does not make honey safer — both raw and pasteurized honey are safe to eat.
However, infants under one year should never consume honey, as it may contain bacteria that cause infant botulism.
Raw honey is rich in amino acids, minerals such as zinc, potassium, calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, and selenium, as well as vitamins including B6, thiamine, riboflavin, pantothenic acid, and niacin. It contains bee pollen and
propolis, both of which have potential health benefits.
Raw honey has antimicrobial, antioxidant, and antifungal properties that support a strong immune system. It may also help with allergies by exposing your body to local pollen, reducing sensitivity over time. Propolis has been studied for its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anti-cancer, anti-allergy, anti-viral, and anti-diabetic effects. Raw or pasteurized, honey is still a source of sugar. Diabetics should monitor their intake carefully — honey is sweeter than regular sugar, so you may need less of it, but it should still be consumed in moderation.
When it comes to nutrition and health benefits, raw honey is the better choice over pasteurized honey.
Fennel is a versatile plant commonly used in cooking for its aromatic seeds and crunchy, sweet-tasting bulbs. Its mild licorice-like flavor enhances a variety of cuisines, especially soups, salads, and Mediterranean dishes. Both its leafy green tops and bulbs are edible, making it a useful ingredient in many recipes. Roasting the bulbs at a moderately high temperature turns their licorice flavor sweet and mellow.
Figs are sweet fruits that come from the fig tree and can be eaten fresh or dried. Dried figs, which are sweeter and more concentrated, are often used in baked goods, including cakes, cookies, and muffins. Fresh figs can be sliced and added to salads, paired with cheese, or served as a topping for cereal or yogurt. They can also be roasted or grilled to create a caramelized flavor.
Q: What foods can help me stay hydrated?
A: Drinking water is the best way to stay hydrated, but did you know certain foods can also boost your water intake? Many fruits and vegetables have a high water content, helping you stay refreshed while adding essential nutrients to your diet. Some of the most hydrating options include cucumbers, iceberg lettuce, celery, eggplant, radishes, green peppers, tomatoes, cauliflower, spinach, starfruit, strawberries, broccoli, watermelon, cantaloupe, grapefruit, and grapes.
Ask the Experts
LIFE’s team of expert dietitians is here to help. Get the answers you need to fuel your healthiest self!
Plum Fennel Salad with Honey Ginger Dressing
Recipe courtesy of Epicurious • Makes 4 Servings
Ingredients:
• ¼ cup orange juice
• 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar
• 2½ teaspoons honey
• 1½ teaspoons finely grated peeled ginger, divided
• A pinch of salt
• 3 large red plums, cut into thin wedges
• ½ fennel bulb, thinly sliced
• Olive oil, toasted sesame seeds, and fennel fronds for garnish
Instructions:
1. Whisk ¼ cup orange juice, 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar, 2½ teaspoons honey, 1 teaspoon finely grated ginger, and a pinch of salt in a medium bowl. Cut 3 large red plums into thin wedges and thinly slice the ½ fennel bulb. Add to dressing; toss to coat.
2. Cover and chill 30 minutes to allow fennel to soften and flavors to blend.
3. Toss ½ teaspoon finely grated ginger into the fruit mixture. Drizzle with olive oil and top with toasted sesame seeds and fennel fronds.
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By Dee Duren, Managing Editor
“Water of life” is more than a saying — it’s a fact. Water is the most essential nutrient for all living organisms, and that includes us. Staying hydrated is one of the healthiest things we can do, yet dehydration is a common and chronic condition for many older adults.
Water plays a vital role in regulating body temperature, blood pressure, digestion, and chemical processes in the body. It lubricates joints and tissues, aids kidney and liver functions, and helps carry nutrients and oxygen to our cells. From our brains to our bones, water supports every part of our anatomy.
AGING AND DEHYDRATION
When we are infants, our bodies are made up of about 75% water while older adults are closer to 50% to 60%.
“As we age, we tend to have more body fat and less muscle,” said Dr. Renetta Reeves, Medical Director of LIFE PACE. “Muscle holds more water than fat, so many older adults start out with lower fluid content in their body.”
The sensation of thirst also diminishes with age, even when dehydration is already present. Medications like diuretics and laxatives further increase fluid loss. Around age 30 to 40, our kidneys begin to decline and are gradually less efficient at filtering waste. The kidneys also become vulnerable to diseases like diabetes and hypertension.
Dehydration is especially common in older adults residing in long-term care. Studies from the National Institutes of Health show that 20% to 38% of residents are dehydrated and that
It’s typical for travelers to limit their fluid intake while driving long distances to avoid frequent pit stops, but that habit could be risky.
A study from Loughborough University in England found that mildly dehydrated drivers made twice as many mistakes — such as lane drifting, late braking, and crossing rumble strips — as those who were properly hydrated.
In fact, the performance of poorly hydrated drivers declined to a level comparable to having a blood alcohol content of 0.08%, the legal limit for DUI in Oklahoma.
Losing as little as 2% of body mass due to low fluids can impair cognitive function, reduce concentration, and negatively affect mood, alertness, and short-term memory.
Before you buckle up, be sure to drink up!
Hydrating beverages like water, seltzer, juice, milk, or herbal tea can help keep you sharp behind the wheel.
37% of older adults admitted to the hospital are diagnosed with dehydration. In fact, dehydration is often the cause of hospitalization and is associated with increased mortality.
We needn’t be working or exercising in the hot sun to get dehydrated. We lose water in daily life through sweat, elimination processes, and our breath.
“Symptoms can be harder to detect in older adults as they mimic the side effects of many medications,” Dr. Reeves said. “Early signs can be dry mouth, fatigue, constipation, or dark urine. More serious signs of dehydration are confusion, rapid heart rate, or dizziness.”
Dehydration can also contribute to a drop in blood pressure upon standing causing dizziness or fainting — a major risk factor for falls.
The National Council on Aging suggests a simple formula for water consumption: take one-third of your body weight and drink that number of
ounces in fluids. For example, if you weigh 150 pounds, aim to drink at least 50 ounces, or about 6 cups, of water each day. However, hydration requirements vary based on health conditions, medications, and activity levels. Consult with your doctor for recommendations based on your health history and lifestyle.
Some older adults struggle to drink enough water due to concerns about urinary incontinence, difficulty swallowing, or ailments like heart failure. Dementia and other medical conditions can cause problems with chewing and swallowing.
“Persons with these conditions need to use extra caution and watch for symptoms of dehydration when in excessive heat or if they have a medical condition such as vomiting or diarrhea,” Dr. Reeves noted.
If you struggle to drink enough water, begin slowly increasing your intake today. Set reminders on your phone or use a checklist to track your intake. It’s easy to forget when we get busy. Find ways to take water with you during the day. The
Even mild dehydration can impair the brain which is 80% to 85% water. The condition can cause confusion, difficulty concentrating, headaches, fatigue, and can even mimic dementia.
Dehydration reduces blood volume, making the heart work harder to circulate oxygen and nutrients. This condition can lead to rapid heartbeat and low blood pressure.
old thermos-style containers can be fitted with a built-in straw that makes them easier to use on the go. Most stores sell bottled water if you accidentally leave yours at home.
Grocery stores carry many different products to make water taste more like a treat. Just be sure to read the ingredients to watch for sugar content. Add drops or powdered flavoring of your choice. You will absorb some water through fruits, vegetables, and other fluids, but try to focus on water. Limit caffeinated and alcoholic drinks.
“It is OK to drink electrolyte drinks in most circumstances,” Dr. Reeves said, “but milk is also a good source of electrolytes.”
Every step towards better hydration benefits your body. With a little effort, drinking enough water can go from being a chore to a habit your body craves.
Sources: National Institutes of Health, National Kidney Foundation, National Council on Aging.
Since water is so essential to the human body, its lack shows up in a wide range of symptoms and conditions. Here are some of the most common.
Low fluid intake concentrates urine, providing an environment for bacteria to thrive and leading to painful infections and an increased risk of kidney problems.
Water helps the body regulate temperature through perspiration and circulation. Without enough fluids, the body struggles to cool itself adequately, raising the risk of heat exhaustion and heat stroke.
Dehydration can cause dizziness, weakness, and low blood pressure, increasing the likelihood of falls that may result in fractures or head injury.
Dehydration can result in constipation, acid reflux, and bloating by slowing digestion and reducing the body’s ability to properly break down food.
Many medications, including those for blood pressure, pain management, and diuretics, can bring about or worsen dehydration. Proper hydration helps these medications work effectively. 1 5 2 6 3 7 4 8
The kidneys need water to flush out toxins efficiently. Chronic dehydration can lead to kidney stones and, in severe cases, kidney damage.
By Donna Mancini, Caregiver Support Specialist
LIFE’s Caregiver Support Groups
LIFE’s Caregiver Support Groups offer free respite care for loved ones while caregivers have a confidential place to talk. Call (918) 665-9000, ext. 1137.
Life can change in an instant. A sudden illness or crisis can reshape not only one person’s world, but also the lives of those around them — especially when someone steps into the unexpected role of a caregiver. Roles change and personal goals shift. The person appointed as caregiver jumps into the new role and scrambles to figure out how to make it work.
Often, in the midst of all the doing, caregivers lose sight of themselves. They start to define their value by the role they have assumed. If they do it well, they feel they are a good person. If they can’t keep up with the demands of their role, they think something is wrong with them. One way to keep caregivers healthy and prevent burnout is for them to establish healthy boundaries.
By Allied
The word “boundary” may be unfamiliar to you, depending on your upbringing. You ask yourself, “What are boundaries? Why are they important? How do I set boundaries and distinguish between a healthy and an unhealthy one?”
In the book “Boundaries,” Drs. John Townsend and Henry Cloud write, “A boundary is an invisible line that you set to define what behaviors are acceptable and unacceptable within relationships. A boundary defines where one person ends and another begins.”
Another way to define the term is to compare it to a property line where your property ends and your neighbor’s starts. You care for and protect
your property and your neighbor does the same for their property. We neither invade nor harm each other’s space or property. That same concept applies to personal boundaries.
Setting a healthy boundary helps us establish realistic limits in our interactions with others that help us distinguish what is our responsibility and what is not. The process defines who we are and what we will and won’t do. Some boundaries are flexible; some are not.
An example of a flexible boundary would be if you, your friend, and his friend (someone you’ve never met) decided to meet for an hour lunch. During your time together, you all agreed to extend your lunch for another 30 minutes. Nobody felt pressured or forced to do something they did not want to do. Now, let’s say while you are eating, your friend’s friend starts eating off your plate. Do you think this person violated your personal space? How would you handle this situation? Would you ask him to stop, verbalizing that his behavior is unacceptable? Or would you be silent — setting no boundary? Would you leave the restaurant or remain at the table?
In John Whitfield’s book “Boundaries and Relationships,” the author writes, “A boundary or limit is how far we can go with comfort in a relationship. It delineates where I and my physical and psychological space ends and where you and yours begin.” Knowing you have the right to protect, value, honor, and affirm your beliefs, thoughts, experiences, feelings, decisions, and wants is a precursor to setting boundaries.”
Establishing and maintaining healthy boundaries takes work, time, and commitment. Saying “no” to a loved one can definitely pull on our heartstrings but there are limits to what we can and cannot give. Caregivers with healthy boundaries are not selfish, rude, or insensitive, nor do they lack compassion. In fact, they are just the opposite; they strive to be the healthiest version of themselves so they can give their best to others.
By Kathy Jones,
It seems like the older we get, the more mail we receive. It can be hard to know what to open and file away for your records, what to save to review on a rainy day, and what to discard immediately. You likely will see mail from marketing organizations, scammers, the Social Security Administration (SSA), and the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS), to name a few.
Sorting through correspondence can be overwhelming. So, what should you know about all of this mail and what actually deserves your attention?
All mail that you receive from the SSA or the CMS definitely deserves your attention. It’s important to keep in mind that physical mail is the only way that Social Security and CMS will contact you, so these items need to be opened and reviewed as they are received.
Types of mail you might receive from SSA include a Social Security benefit rate change notice which is mailed in December. This notice tells you about benefit payment changes for the coming year due to cost-of-living increases, variations in the premiums that are withheld, and other factors.
Another type of mail would be the income-related monthly adjustment amount determination, sent at any time during the year. You’ll get this notice if you have Medicare Part B and/or Part D and Social Security determines that income-related monthly adjustment amounts apply to you.
Mailings from CMS, you may notice, come more frequently and consistently. If you have Original Medicare, you’ll get a Medicare summary notice (MSN) in the mail every three months for Medicare Part A and Part B covered services. The notice shows all of your services or supplies that providers and suppliers billed to Medicare during
If you enjoy helping people, the Medicare Assistance Program (MAP) at LIFE Senior Services offers a variety of volunteer opportunities to fit your skills and Interests.
Call MAP at (918) 938-7683 to learn how you can make a difference.
the three-month period, what Medicare paid, and what you may owe the provider. These notices are not bills.
If you have a Medicare Advantage Plan (like an HMO or PPO) or Medicare Part D, as opposed to Original Medicare, you will not receive an MSN. Instead, you will generally receive the plan’s version of the MSN, called an Explanation of Benefits (EOB). Like the MSN, the EOB is not a bill. It reports information on the charges and payments related to the healthcare services you received. This EOB will come directly from your plan provider for your Medicare Advantage Plan or Medicare part D Plan which you should receive monthly.
Another mailing from CMS to watch for is the yearly “Medicare & You” handbook. The “Medicare & You” handbook is mailed to households each fall unless you have opted to receive it electronically.
If you have questions about something you have received by mail or email, please don’t hesitate to call LIFE’s Medicare Assistance Program at (918) 938-7683.
Source: www.medicare.gov, www.ncoa.org
BY
I vividly remember summers spent in my Nana’s garden, where everything seemed just a little brighter and more alive. The air hummed with bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds, darting from flower to flower, and Nana would proudly explain the important work her tiny, winged helpers were doing. Little did I know then how essential those pollinators were — or how urgently they’d one day need our help.
Bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds are more than just pretty garden guests. They’re the lifelines of our ecosystems, responsible for pollinating about one-third of the food we eat. Without them, our plates and world would look drastically different.
Recent news paints a worrying picture. A 2025 study published in the academic journal “Science” revealed alarming declines in butterfly populations across the U.S. Over two decades, from 2000 to 2020, 22% of butterfly species vanished entirely, and over onethird have faced serious declines.
Losing one of every five butterflies over 20 years should be a big wake-up call. These declines are tied directly to habitat loss, climate change, and pesticide use. While this news is sobering, it offers a clear call to action — and the good news is that everyone, including active seniors, can make a difference starting right in their backyard or senior living community.
Tulsa Master Gardener Karen Watkins, an expert in creating accessible, thriving sanctuaries for pollinators, believes hope lies in the hands of urban gardeners. In the last eight to 10 years, she said, the number of monarchs that migrate through Oklahoma has increased, proof that ecological intervention efforts are helping.
“Gardeners can make a difference, no matter how small their plot is, if each person will do something,” she said. “If you attract beneficial insects by including the native plants they recognize as food, then you are solving the problem.”
Master Gardener Karen Watkins will introduce us to pollinators that that are native to our local ecosystems, discuss which plants with all-season blooms will best attract them, and talk about why we want these beautiful invertebrates in our backyards and neighborhoods.
“Everything starts at the plant level, and then the next level is insects. The bottom line is — these insects run the world, and there wouldn’t be a world without them. Without this entire big picture, everything stops. Nothing is there by accident; it’s so important that we provide the right conditions for them to thrive,” Watkins said.
Choose native flowers, shrubs, and trees suited to our zone to support local pollinators. Buying “Oklahoma Proven” selections from trusted local growers means your purchase is already accustomed to the soil, climate, and regional conditions. Clustering plants of varying heights makes it easier for pollinators to find food and shelter.
Most pollinators are “specialist eaters” that can only digest certain native plant species. Bees love blue, purple, and yellow flowers. Butterflies go for bright, open blooms like zinnias. Hummingbirds are drawn to red, tubular flowers like cardinal flower and trumpet vine.
Include a water source like a pond, a bubbling water feature, a mud puddle, or a shallow dish filled with water and pebbles. Pollinators get thirsty, and the water source will provide a way to cool down your garden. Keep it going in the winter.
Trees, shrubs, and tall grasses give pollinators a chance to rest and hide from predators and bad weather. A brush pile, habitat tripod, or
Want to make your pollinator garden official? Several organizations offer certifications and signage to recognize your efforts to support butterflies, bees, and other pollinators. These programs provide resources, guidance, and even signs for display to inspire others.
Encourages the creation of spaces with food, water, cover, and nesting sites for wildlife at nwf.org/garden.
Provides education, resources, and networking opportunities to promote the love of gardening, floral design, and environmental responsibility at gardenclub.org.
bee hotel can provide additional shelter. Leave bare patches of soil for bees that nest in the ground. “Allowing certain areas to grow naturally and incorporating elements like brush piles or insect hotels provides essential shelter,” said Sarah Jensen, a gardening specialist at Southwood Garden Center.
Resist disposing of leaves and last year’s stalks until the temperature is steadily in the 50s, when insects begin to hatch. By bagging and throwing them away, you’re disposing of pollinators and beneficial insects before they have a chance to help. Watkins begins her clean-up earlier but leaves the waste in an out-ofsight area of her backyard until after temperatures rise.
Avoid chemical pesticides, herbicides, and fungicides that harm pollinators, especially neonicotinoid-treated plants and seeds. Neonicotinoid insecticides are similar to nicotine and are highly toxic to bees. Instead, use companion planting and natural pest control methods. You can rid plants of many harmful insects simply by spraying water from your garden hose at the leaves.
Most pollinator-friendly plants need 6+ hours of sunlight per day. Consider raised beds or container gardens for easier access and maintenance.
Early, mid, and late-season flowers ensure pollinators have food year-round. For example, wild indigo blooms in the spring, coneflower and bee balm flourish in the summer, and goldenrod and aster provide fall color.
Creating a pollinator garden isn’t simply gardening — it’s conservation, community building, and personal enrichment all rolled into one. Every flower planted, pesticide avoided, and habitat protected contributes directly to reversing troubling environmental trends.
“It’s important for experienced gardeners who have a lot of knowledge to pass the information on,” Watkins said. “Share what you know with younger people so it will be passed on long after you’re involved.”
We can all help to ensure that future generations experience summers filled
Bees, birds, and butterflies may be the best-known pollinators, but other creatures also contribute significantly.
Moths, active primarily at night, are important pollinators in Oklahoma. Tiger moths, leopard moths, milkweed tussock moths, hummingbird moths, and luna moths are just a few of the species that help. Grow evening-blooming moonflower, night-blooming jasmine, and four o’clocks.
When the sun sets, watch bats get to work. Tree bats like the Eastern red bat and Brown bat control insect populations and pollinate as they fly in search of mosquitoes, beetles, ants, moths, and wasps.
Ants, ground beetles, and spiders are considered incidental pollinators because they transfer pollen as they roam.
Lizards like geckos and skinks, drawn to the nectar of certain flowers, accumulate pollen on their faces and snouts. As they move to the next flower, so does the pollen.
Birds, particularly hummingbirds, are vital pollinators as well.
make a difference with earthfriendly practices at tulsaccd. org/yard-by-yard-communityresiliency-project.
Save Our Monarchs offers valuable resources, including seeds and guidance, specifically designed for senior communities. These initiatives benefit pollinators and foster social connections and collective purpose among older adults. Learn more at saveourmonarchs.org.
BY JULIE WENGER WATSON
Whether you favor flowers, fruits, or veggies, Oklahoma’s long growing season provides countless opportunities to dig in the dirt. Before you head out the door with trowel in hand, consider a few fresh gardening trends.
Sustainability is a welcome trend in gardening. Susan Palmer Foust and Brenda MichaelHaggard of the Tulsa Garden Club advocate the use of native species whenever possible in planting. Native species (plants that naturally occur in a particular ecosystem, as opposed to those brought in from other areas) are sustainable by nature, having evolved to flourish in specific environments. Examples of plants native to Northeast Oklahoma are post and blackjack oak trees, smooth sumac shrubs, or flowering plants like the giant coneflower and hellebore.
There are many advantages to native plants. They don’t require fertilizers and require fewer (if any) pesticides compared to the typical suburban lawn. They use less water, help prevent erosion, and provide shelter and food for wildlife while they promote biodiversity.
“Go ahead, plant natives,” Michael-Haggard encouraged. “The wildlife has something to search for, something to land on, something to eat, something to house their babies, something to grow their families. Then tell everybody else down the road to do the same.”
When considering sustainability and native plants, Foust and Michael-Haggard touch on the important topic of “keystone plants,” those that have been around for a very long time and influence the natural environment around them. They are the most productive plants that support the most species. Although keystones are not always the most abundant in an ecosystem, they’re critical to maintaining its diversity and stability and have a large impact on the local food web.
THE LINNAEUS TEACHING GARDENS AT WOODWARD PARK
“Keystone plants are so critical,” said MichaelHaggard. “The oak tree, in particular, covers, protects, feeds, and houses so many birds and insects.”
Foust concurs. “Anybody who’s been disappointed by Oklahoma summers can visit the ‘Oklahoma Proven Garden’ at the Teaching Garden in the Tulsa Garden Center at Woodward Park. They can see what’s going to work, what’s just blazing in the hot sun and doing great,” she said.
“I think it gives them hope to hear, ‘use what was already planted here before anybody came.’ There are some beautiful wildflowers and little bitsy daisies, and just so many things that bloom early that support little, teeny pollinators. I think if people used more of the keystone-based plants and support the pollinators coming down through the flyways, they’re going to be happy.”
For more on this topic, Foust and Michael-Haggard recommend visiting homegrownnationalpark.org.
iNaturalist App
Identify and discuss plants and animals from photos with fellow “citizen scientists.”
Technology has found its way into almost every aspect of our lives, and gardening is no exception.
While there’s no escaping the physical tasks inherent in horticulture, a wealth of digital tools — apps, websites, and social media — make gardening advice easily accessible.
Susan Palmer Foust, education chairperson for the Tulsa Garden Club, is a fan of gardening apps and encourages others to explore those that suit their needs. The “Farm Your Yard” app (farmyouryard.org) functions as a planner, helping you decide what, when, and how much to plant, and offers guides and notifications through harvest.
Foust also recommends “iNaturalist” (inaturalist.org), which allows users to identify and discuss plants and animals from photos with fellow “citizen scientists.”
Brenda Michael-Haggard, past president of the Tulsa Garden Club, sees artificial intelligence as another powerful tool. While she hasn’t abandoned her gardening books, she and her husband use apps like “Google Lens” (lens.google) and “Picture This” (picturethisai.com) to identify unfamiliar plants.
“Artificial intelligence has opened up the world to us,” she says. “Somewhere, somehow, it’s been documented — what it is, where it’s from, what its benefits are, and whether it’s invasive.”
Another valuable resource is the OSU Extension (extension.okstate.edu), which offers in-person support through County offices — including one in Tulsa — and over 1,500 downloadable fact sheets on more than 200 agricultural topics. The website also features “Extension Bot,” an AI-powered tool that provides answers with citations.
Making gardening accessible for everyone is also a growing trend. For those with limited mobility, raised beds are a good solution. They can be constructed at any height and thus are more navigable for those who find it difficult to kneel or lean over, or for those in wheelchairs. A bench added around the planting bed can make it possible to spend more time enjoying the hobby with less fatigue. Alternatively, easy access to tabletop gardens results when a chair is slid under a table furnishing a more comfortable place to work, and narrow beds (raised or nearer the ground) put plants within reach for gardeners of all ages and abilities.
Container gardening is also useful for those with mobility issues as well as being a great place to start for those just beginning. These smaller, simpler, low-investment plantings bring agriculture to young kids and first-timers. Choosing the correct tools helps, too. Implements designed with curved grips to reduce hand and wrist strain, reaching tools with longer handles, and those sized for children and smaller adults make working the soil more convenient.
Accessible Tools for All Abilities
Tulsa Garden Club's Generation Green program helps youth grow their love of gardening with kids activities, contests, and classes.
Cheryl Ralston enjoys a day of planting at the Roma Berry Center for Seniors.
As the Tulsa Garden Club education chair, Susan Palmer Foust has seen grandparents share their passion for gardening with a younger generation. Often grandparents are the ones taking grandkids to and from the many classes offered by the Club.
“We see many grandparents bringing their grandkids to classes, introducing them to gardening through something they can work on as a project, like terrariums or specific plants,” she said. “That’s a neat trend, more people retiring early and jumping into gardening with their kids or grandkids.”
For “curious cultivators” or those searching for shared gardening-related activities with friends and family, Foust recommends the Tulsa Garden Center website, tulsagardencenter.org, for upcoming classes and plant sales.
MASTER GARDENERS AT WORK
ABOVE
Rhonda Weaver, Karen Watkins, and Marsha Reed tend a flower bed.
TOP A tranquil and lovely shade garden featured in a previous Tulsa Master Gardener Garden Tour.
OPPOSITE PAGE
Carla Malalis leads a garden tour. Don't miss the upcoming Master Gardener Tour on June 7 - 8. Call (918) 746-3701 or visit tulsamastergardeners.org for more information.
BY DIANE HAMBRIC, MEMBER OF TULSA MASTER GARDENERS
Gardening in Oklahoma can feel like an extreme sport — wild temperature swings, scorching summer sun, high winds, and relentless pests. Before investing time, energy, and money, why not turn to the experts? Members of Tulsa Master Gardeners (TMG), a program of the Oklahoma State University Extension Office, know what it takes to make plants thrive in these conditions. We asked for their top 10 tips to help grow your best garden yet!
Before planting, check flower beds and vegetable gardens to remove any dead plant material from last season. Trim dead limbs as needed, but wait to prune flowering plants like azaleas until after they finish blooming.
A soil test reveals exactly what nutrients your soil needs. The Oklahoma State Extension office offers soil testing for just $10, providing a detailed report from Oklahoma State University with recommendations. Visit tulsamastergardeners.org for instructions.
Use the soil report to amend your beds with the recommended nutrients and mix in fresh compost for added richness. At planting time, use a slow-release fertilizer like Osmocote to boost growth in both garden beds and container plants.
Northeast Oklahoma recently shifted from Zone 6B to Zone 7A due to rising summer temperatures. When buying plants, always check the tag to ensure they’re suited for our zone.
Vegetable plants require extra care for the best yield. OSU Fact Sheet 6013 provides detailed guidance on soil preparation, watering, and pest control for a productive garden.
Not all bugs are bad! Many insects help keep a garden healthy by naturally pollinating plants and controlling pests. Only use pesticides when absolutely necessary, and get to know your garden’s allies with OSU Fact Sheet EPP-7307.
Different plants have different light needs — always check plant tags before choosing their location. For an attractive flower bed, plant in groups of three. Vegetable gardens need at least six hours of full sun to produce well.
Make sure all sprinklers are working correctly — check for broken heads and ensure good coverage. If looking for a water-wise alternative, consider ground irrigation. OSU Fact Sheets HLA6615 and L-444 offer more details on efficient watering methods. 1 4 7 2 5 8 3 6 9 10 1 2 3
Native and pollinator-friendly plants support local ecosystems and promote struggling insect populations. Plus, they’re adapted to Oklahoma’s climate, making them easier to grow. Find a list of recommended native plants in OSU Fact Sheet E-1052.
When planting in pots, use the tried-and-true “Thrill, Fill, Spill” formula. This simple approach results in eyecatching containers that last all season.
1. Thrill – A tall plant in the center for height.
2. Fill – Medium plants around the base for fullness.
3. Spill – Cascading plants that trail over the edges.
Tulsa Master Gardeners (TMG) is a volunteer organization dedicated to helping local gardeners succeed. With over 400 members, TMG provides Oklahoma State University-backed education and handson guidance to support home gardeners, schools, and community groups.
Their outreach spans Tulsa and surrounding areas, offering expert advice, resources, and educational programs. TMG visits schools to introduce kids to the wonders of insects, works with Habitat for Humanity to plant gardens for new homeowners, and grows fresh produce for food pantries through the Seed to Supper program. The group also brings gardening education to public events, senior living communities, and community centers.
For those looking for inspiration, the TMG 2025 Garden Tour is scheduled for June 7 - 8 with more information to be released on their website, and the demonstration garden near the Tulsa Fairgrounds showcases plants that thrive in Oklahoma’s unique climate. Each spring, high-quality plants are for sale online with easy drivethrough pickup. In June, the annual TMG Garden Tour highlights stunning gardens at private homes where visitors can learn directly from Tulsa Master Gardeners.
Whether you’re experienced or just getting started, Tulsa Master Gardeners are here to help you grow. Contact them at (918) 7463701 or visit tulsamastergardeners.org.
Ready to start your backyard bird bistro? Check out the digital version of this article under the Resources tab at LIFEseniorservices.org for an exclusive list of bird feeders!
Nothing brings a backyard to life quite like the flutter of bright feathers and the cheerful sound of birdsong. Attracting birds to your yard can be rewarding and entertaining as well as a way to support local wildlife. With the right combination of feeders, food, and natural elements, your outdoor space can be a sanctuary for songbirds, hummingbirds, and more.
One of the easiest ways to interest these visitors is by setting up a steady food source that entices both local and migratory birds. Offer a mix of seeds, suet, or nectar to create an inviting environment. With a little planning, your yard can become a haven for nature’s winged wonders.
Choosing different feeders will widen the variety of avian visitors. Basic designs include hanging tubes and platform tray types. Window-mounted feeders can lead to birds striking the glass, so position those a few feet from windows. The Audubon Society recommends placing your choice within three feet of the nearest window or more than 30 feet away from the house.
Ideally, you want something sturdy, weatherproof, and simple to clean — requirements that are filled by a platform feeder. Although its ease of access is attractive to a large number of birds, it will also be a magnet for squirrels and other undesirable competitors for the seed. Platform feeders must be cleaned frequently to avoid contamination and mold.
House, or hopper, feeders hold lots of seed and the roof helps it remain dry, but this type can be hard to clean (look for one with a removable lid or sides). The tube types come in an array of sizes that tempt different species and sizes of birds. Without a platform, there is no place to perch and the food will not be contaminated by their droppings.
Once you’ve selected a feeder, the next step is choosing the right food to fill it. First, consider what birds you want to welcome or what sort are already in your yard. Just like us, these animals have distinct diet preferences. A mix of nuts and dried fruit, or suet — a mix of beef fat and seeds — appeals to woodpeckers, nuthatches, and titmice. For robins, bluebirds, mockingbirds, and cardinals, buy a dried fruit blend or make your own with raisins or currants soaked in water overnight. Place your confection on a tray feeder with some orange halves and watch for the incoming enthusiasts. Black oil sunflower seed appeals to a wide variety of birds, and a blend containing millet, thistle, and cracked corn lures an even more diverse assortment.
To prevent pests like weevils, store these provisions in a secure metal or other airtight container. Prevent spoilage of your investment in the summer months by freezing the supply in zipper bags. Keeping it cool prevents mold growth that can be fatal to birds.
One of summer’s most interesting additions to your yard is the hummingbird. The ruby-throated beauties are most common in Oklahoma, and you may also see the black-chinned and rufous hummers. They will be tempted by the nectar-filled feeder and what may be growing in your yard. Planting trumpet vine, bee balm, red cardinal flower, four o’clocks, verbena, trumpet honeysuckle, or any number of plants they find attractive will augment the other food you provide. The more of these tiny visitors you entice, the more entertaining it is to watch them, especially when a squabble breaks out as they compete for the nectar.
The Oklahoma Wildlife Department recommends putting up hummingbird feeders on April 1 and taking them down November 1. These incredible migratory birds, whose wings beat 70 times or more per second, have huge energy requirements. Along with planting hummer-friendly flowers, offer hummers a simple sugar-water mix to help supplement their diet. A solution of four parts water to one part of granulated sugar will do the trick.
You may prevent spats between these territorial flyers by having more than one feeder. Bright ones that have red or yellow ports that help attract the birds should be placed in shade at least two feet off the ground. If you’re making the food, do not use honey, artificial sweetener, or red dye. It’s important to clean feeders every few days with warm, soapy water to avoid bacteria and fungi that could harm or kill these visitors.
To attract birds to your garden, create a welcoming environment with native plants, feeders, and freshwater sources. By offering food, shelter, and a safe place to thrive, you’ll not only enjoy the beauty of these feathered friends but also contribute to the local ecosystem. With a little effort and patience, you’ll soon have a vibrant, lively haven filled with colorful visitors.
and more. Sign up with your email under the
Complete the grid so each row, column, and 3x3 box contains each digit 1-9 without repeating the number.
Each answer starts with the letters CO.
To do this mental word game, read the clues; each one refers to a word starting with the letters CO. Answers on page 39.
Another word for contest.
Travel from one's home to a workplace.
A bovine animal that yields milk and meat.
An outer garment to keep the upper body warm.
A light, porous material sometimes used for making bottle stoppers.
A reddish-brown metal sometimes used to make coins.
A person who prepares food for a living.
A device used for finding direction, north, south, etc.
Two of the same kind or belonging together.
Occurring regularly.
Answers on page 39.
Across
1. Drinker's account
4. Not online, per modern shorthand
5. Home of the Pont Neuf ("New Bridge"), which is over 400 years old
7. Soup component
8. Bright and lively, as music
A bamboozable is a saying/phrase that is made up of a display of words in an interesting way. The goal is to try to figure out the well-known saying, person, place, or thing that each bamboozable is meant to represent. There are six bamboozables below. Answers on page 39.
Down
1. Bejeweled accessory
2. Rice, in Spanish
3. What's the rush?
5. Three-letter sandwich, informally
6. Like wallflowers
Each section below contains one half of a word. Your task is putting them together to form words relating to fruits. There are a total of 9 words on the page. When you find a word, write it on the lines below and cross out those letters in the grid.
By Julie Alexander, Assistant Editor
Keeping up with expensive home repairs can be a significant challenge for many seniors, especially those on fixed incomes. Essential fixes — like a new roof, plumbing repairs, or an upgraded heating and cooling system — can be daunting. Finding a reliable contractor and covering the costs may feel overwhelming, but delayed maintenance could lead to more serious and costly problems over time.
A safe and accessible home is critical for those aging in place. From preventing tripping hazards to installing a wheelchair ramp, even small modifications can make a big difference. Fortunately, there are local and national resources that help seniors afford necessary repairs and small modifications to remain in their homes longer.
Safety should be the top priority when upgrades are made. Grab bars or safety handrails placed in bathrooms and other areas throughout the home help with balance and prevent falls. According to Evan Elsberry owner of Grab Bars of Tulsa, a company that specializes in home safety modifications, installing grab bars in a residential bathroom can run between $100 and $300.
Someone in a wheelchair, on a scooter, or with other mobility issues will appreciate more freedom with the installation of a ramp. Tony Rainwater, owner of the accessible solutions company AmRAMP, said the business offers threshold, suitcase, and modular ramps. A suitcase ramp is portable and folds into a compact size. A modular ramp comes in sections that can be laid out to fit different landscapes. Prices start at $75 for a threshold ramp to $3,800 for a 16-foot ramp. Modular ramps rent for about $360 per month, Rainwater said.
When seniors find upgrades unaffordable, local and national organizations offer low-cost repairs for those who live in certain areas or meet specific economic requirements. There may also be tax credits that can help lower the cost. A little research can go a long way when seeking assistance.
Revitalize T-Town is a local nonprofit that makes homes safe and secure for eligible Tulsa homeowners. Many of their clients are seniors, and Revitalize T-Town’s primary focus is on roofs, energy efficiency, and safety. Their Safe at Home program provides homeowners a safe living environment; repairs could include grab bars, handrails, and wheelchair ramps.
Bernadette Jones, 70, has lived in her home since 1989. She applied for help through Revitalize T-Town and had several repairs completed on her home recently. Jones, who plans to remain in her home as long as possible, said the repairs have made it easier for her to stay.
“I just thought I would have to stay here and live with it,” she said. Revitalize T-Town repaired her bathroom, added grab bars, a new back door, weatherproofed, and did some exterior painting.
“What didn’t they do! It was quality work, and they went above and beyond, fixing things I didn’t even know were a problem. After it was all said and done, I sat down and had a good cry.” She said she feels much more confident about staying in her home. And it has spurred her on to do some upgrades on her own, like interior painting.
Jennifer Barcus-Schafer, CEO of Revitalize T-Town, said on average, they spend about $16,000 per home, partnering with Public Service of Oklahoma (PSO) and other area organizations to pay for the repairs. Roof repairs, which BarcusSchafer said are the most expensive, run about $10,000.
“This year our goal is to do 55 roofs,” she said, adding that often, the roof has to be repaired before other issues can be addressed.
The organization prioritizes seniors, people with disabilities, veterans, and families with small children. Applicants must meet income criteria under HUD guidelines, own their home for at least five years, and agree to stay in the home for at least five years after repairs are completed. BarcusSchafer said many senior applicants struggle with bills and home maintenance.
“Just their basic needs are high. They aren’t turning on their air conditioner because they haven’t had it serviced in years. They aren’t using
their heater. We also see a lot of seniors who won’t turn them on because of high bills. We run into a lot of people who heat their homes with their gas stoves. It’s not a good situation.”
Revitalize T-Town hopes to complete 120 houses this year, and 134 people are currently on a waitlist for repairs. The organization partners with other funding sources, including Federal Home Loan Bank, AEP/PSO, and local foundations, banks, churches, and businesses. A similar program for Oklahoma City residents, through the city’s Housing and Community Development Division, awards grants to homeowners to pay for repairs that violate city codes, and Central Oklahoma Habitat for Humanity performs critical home repairs.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture offers eligible seniors a grant or loan to repair and improve their homes and to remove health and safety hazards. The Section 504 Home Repair program offers eligible seniors a 20-year loan with up to $50,000 in assistance. For more information, visit usda.gov.
Some home modifications may be tax-deductible if considered a medical expense, according to the Aging at Home Association. Adding ramps, a walk-in shower, grab bars or railings, widening doorways to accommodate a wheelchair, lowering or modifying kitchen cabinets, and other medically necessary improvements that
don’t increase the value of your home may be deductible.
If you plan to age in place, make or seek a critical evaluation of your home to see if it can accommodate your needs as you age. In addition to health concerns, safety and mobility in your home should be a top priority. Outof-date flooring can be a hazard, as can steps and bathrooms. Accessibility may also include modifications to doorknobs or cabinet pulls. Even smart home technology can make a home safer for a senior.
When assessing the needs for you or your loved ones to age in place, always hire a professional to perform any work. Remodeling can be not only expensive but also stressful. Without proper support or resources, seniors are vulnerable to unsafe living conditions and a diminished quality of life. With only a few changes, however, your home can be made a safe and comfortable place to age.
Wednesday, June 18 at 10 a.m. Legacy Plaza East Conference Center 5330 E. 31st St. • Tulsa
Learn smart ways to make a home comfortable, safe, and a great fit for older adults.
Register for this free seminar at LIFEseniorservices.org or by calling (918) 664-9000, ext. 1181.
BY CONNIE CRONLEY
Several days ago I received a book I had ordered and was astonished to discover that the book was “The Vulnerables” by Sigrid Nunez. I have no recollection of ordering that book. I can’t remember ever reading about it or the author.
That little episode of brain fog could have been an episode in the book. This short novel, which reads like a memoir, features an unnamed female writer fumbling her way through New York during the COVID-19 lockdown. In diverse episodes, she deals with inertia, anxiety, writer’s block, isolation, comfort food, and more.
The description I just gave, although baldly accurate, doesn’t begin to describe the beauty, force, and wisdom of the book. The style is as direct and clear as spring water in a glass pitcher. It’s so personal, I felt as if I had spent time with a good conversationalist. And oh, the subjects she converses on.
Flowers. Wandering through isolated city parks, she notes red tulips. “Too excitable” is how Sylvia Plath described them. The author considers hydrangeas “old-lady flowers,” and explains, “You reach a certain age, and it all kicks in: Social Security, Medicare, and a fondness for hydrangeas.” How is it, she muses, that we name our children and pets for pretty flowers (little girls named Lily and Violet, a cat named Mimosa) but not for weeds (no twins named Mugwort and Milkvetch.)
Animals. She gets caught up in the pandemic pet craze as she house-sits a brilliant parrot named
Eureka. In a lavish apartment, Eureka has a room of his own painted with jungle scenes to resemble a South American rainforest. Still, Eureka requires daily human interaction, play, and conversation. Otherwise, a parrot sinks into melancholy.
She relates stories of astonishing connections between humans and wildlife. One story is that of Craig Foster, a naturalist struggling with depression, who formed a bond with a curious little octopus in the undersea kelp forest in the Western Cape, South Africa. The connection between them transformed the sea diver, lifted his depression, and resulted in the luminous film “My Octopus Teacher.”
The story affirmed the narrator’s belief in “human biophilia” — an urge to connect with nature and other living things. She quotes Foster: “Gentleness is the most important thing that hours and hours in nature can teach.”
Eureka’s room of his own sets the narrator to thinking about pandemic distancing and living space. In one Hong Kong tenement housing, the per-person living space was 48 square feet — less than one-third the size of a New York City parking space. She remembered that the poet Marianne
Moore once lived with her mother in a basement apartment so cramped they ate their meals sitting on the edge of the bathtub.
Because the narrator is an author, references to books and writers thread through the novel: Charles Dickens, Oscar Wilde, Joan Didion, Tulsa’s John Brainard, and so many more. It is a hope chest of titles to remember and books to read. It’s not important to remember what happened in every novel we’ve read. “What matters is what you experience while reading” — the feeling the story evokes, the questions that rise in your mind.
“The Vulnerables” is set in 2020, the beginning of the COVID shutdown, a “dark, anti-truth time.” People were behaving perversely, deranged, even. “It’s like the whole world woke up one day and took a giant stupid pill.” It could easily be set in today’s world. The writer in the story, and likely Nunez herself, begins to question the value of fiction. Maybe only journalists are essential. Maybe what people crave is “direct, authentic, scrupulous” fact.
“The Vulnerables” is a wise, short, funny story about connection. What helps us endure such times is hope and humor. And, I think, beautiful and thoughtful books like this.
Now that serendipity has led me to discover the extraordinary Sigrid Nunez, next up for me is her National Book Award-winning novel, “The Friend,” about a novelist who adopts a Great Dane that belonged to a deceased friend.
Museum of Tulsa History • 2445 S. Peoria Ave., Tulsa Tulsa Historical Society and Museum
Ford Adopts 40-Hour Work Week
Ford Motor Company was one of the first American companies to instate a 40-hour workweek for its automotive factory workers, extending to office workers in August. The decision to switch the workweek from six to five days had originally been made in 1922. Henry Ford stated it was time to end the idea that leisure was a class privilege, but also admitted the change was instituted to increase productivity.
President Lincoln Buried
The president’s funeral train traveled through 180 cities and seven states before reaching its final stop in Abraham Lincoln’s hometown of Springfield, Illinois, where he was laid to rest. At each stop, mourners paid their respects to Lincoln who had been assassinated in April. Lincoln’s son Willie, who passed three years prior and had originally been buried in Washington D.C., was interred next to his father in the family plot the same day.
First Mother’s Day Holiday
The idea for a Mother’s Day holiday is believed to date back to 1872. Many individual states already celebrated Mother’s Day, but it wasn’t until President Woodrow Wilson issued a presidential proclamation that officially established a national Mother’s Day holiday, set on the second Sunday of every May. Wilson stated the holiday offered a chance to “(publicly express) our love and reverence for the mothers of our country.”
One year after the Louisiana Purchase, the Lewis and Clark expedition left St. Louis, Missouri, to explore the Northwest from the Mississippi River to the Pacific Ocean. Approximately 45 men, later joined by fur trader Toussaint Charbonneau and his wife Sacagawea, crossed the Northwest, reaching the ocean in November 1805. On September 23, 1806, the expedition returned to St. Louis with a wealth of information about the region.
Ozone Hole Discovery Announced
In the scientific journal “Nature,” scientists announced abnormally low ozone levels over the South Pole which became known as the Ozone Hole. Within two years, 46 nations, and eventually all 197 members of the United Nations, signed the Montreal Protocol, pledging to phase out substances known to deplete the ozone. Scientists now predict the ozone layer will return to pre-1980’s levels before the end of the 21st century.
After travelling over 2,000 miles from Newfoundland to Ireland in just under 15 hours, Amelia Earhart became the first woman to make a solo nonstop transatlantic flight. The flight came just five years after Charles Lindbergh became the first pilot to ever achieve this feat. For Earhart’s historic journey, she was awarded a Distinguished Flying Cross by the U.S. Congress.
ALL PRO Carpet Cleaning
Senior and caregiver discounts. Carpet, furniture, rug cleaning. Pet odor removed and Teflon protectant available. Emergency water extraction. Residential and commercial services. Professional truck mount steam cleaning. Carpet repairs and restretching. Prompt, professional, quality service at a fair price. Certified, insured. Veteran owned and operated. Call Thomas Fink, owner/technician, for free estimate (918) 636-6303.
3 Plots in Memorial Park
3 plots for sale located in Memorial Park Cemetery. The lots were $2,850 each and are now $1,500 each O.B.O. Located in Section 35, Lot 119, Spaces 1,4,6. Call Don at (918) 506-8568.
Floral Haven Cemetery Plot
Veterans Field of Honor Extended. Lot 306 D Spaces 1 and 2. 2 plots,1 Vault and 2 opening and closing. $8,000. Call (918) 703-2384
Floral Haven Memorial Gardens
Two lots in Garden of Everlasting Life. Very easy to locate within the oldest area of Floral Haven. Lot 19B, Spaces 3 and 4. Valued at $5,995 each and will sell for $2,500 each. Call (918) 260-8632.
Four Calvary Cemetery Lots
Four Calvary Cemetery lots (91st and Harvard) located in Mausoleum 1, Patio F, Level A #111. Worth $20,700 and reduced to $19,000. Call (918) 919-2020.
Low Prices for Memorial Park Lots
Regular price $1,870 each. Section 21, Lot 77A, spaces 1 & 6, both $2,000. Section 21, Lot 23A, spaces 3 & 4, Lot 24A, spaces 3 & 4, two for $3,000, all four $5,500. Seller pays transfer fee. Contact Steven (636) 575-1469 or email steven1912@charter.net
Memorial Park Cemetery
6 plots, just off Memorial in section 6, lot 353. Plots 1,2,3,4,5,6. Will split. $2,000 each. Text (918) 694-9931 or email tresakeys1@gmail.com.
Memorial Park Companion Crypt
Memorial Park - Companion Crypt. Section 27, Unit 3, Row 23, Companion Crypt A. Current value - $10,925. Asking $8,000. Contact: johnholderman2@gmail.com
Memorial Park Area 4
Spaces 4, 5, 6 in sold out prime section 4, lot 76. $2,000 each plus interment fee. Text (918) 520-8237 for map.
Memorial Park Mausoleum Companion Crypt Companion crypt available in Memorial Park Cemetery. Crypt A located in Section 27-1, Row 57. Priced at $9,025. Call or text H.L. at (918) 2840306 or email hlmoore_1@att.net
Memorial Park – 2 Spaces Available
Two spaces available in Memorial Park Cemetery. The spaces, located in Section 48 Lot 320 (spaces 3 & 4) in South Lawn section--one section over from the creek. Lots have been reduced in price to $2350 each from $2850. Bronze only garden. Willing to negotiate price just call (918) 671-3152.
Memorial Park – 4 Contiguous Plots
Four plots located in Section 15 near Lake of Enchantment. Will only sell as a group. $5,000. Leave message or text (936) 443-2344.
Memorial Park Garden of the Apostles
Four spaces in section 28, lot 111, spaces 1,2,7,8. Bronze only section. Current value $2,150 each. Will sell all four, or in pairs for $1,750 each. Call or text (918) 633-6138 with message ‘Memorial Park Lots’ and a call back number.
Memorial Park, Garden of the Christus South of the chapel. Section 15, lot 260, plots 4, 5 and 6, in a row. Will sell separately or together. Note: this is a bronze-marker only section. $1,500 each. BTW Bob Wills is buried in this section! Call John (918) 446-1730
Memorial Park – Garden of the Prophets
Available: Five adjoining spaces, including two full-sized coffin crypts, located in picturesque Section 57, Lot 398; Spaces 1-4 and Lot 399; Space 4 near the recently added Bronze Angel statue. EXCEPTIONAL SAVINGS!
$1,395 ($1,850 value) for each space and $699 ($950 value) for each crypt. Call/Text (714) 313-7616; email paulbland2@yahoo.com
Memorial Park Plots. Huge savings! Selling 4 burial plots at Memorial Park Cemetery in nice location. Will sell in pairs or all four. Spaces 1,2,7,8 in Lot 133 in Section 28. Only $1,250 each. Valued at $2,250 each. Call or text (918) 521-0869.
Live Beautifully! You Deserve It! Here at Moore Cleaning we are your trusted source for seniors needing assistance with home cleaning. You are our priority! We have over 23 years experience and references from our loyal customers. We customize our cleaning to meet your needs. Also offering window cleaning and organizing. Reasonable rates. Please call today to set up your appointment. Marybelle Moore (918) 671-5065. Marybellemoore111@gmail.com.
New Season Cleaning Service
New Season Cleaning Service offers residential housecleaning weekly or bi-weekly. Reasonable rates for a job well done. Accepting new customers!! Call Todd at (918) 630-0747. Visit www.newseasoncleaningservice.com or email newseasoncleaningservice@ gmail.com.
Window Cleaning. Housecleaning. Window Cleaning – I make your windows shine no matter what condition they are in. Chandeliers, light fixtures and mirrors. House Cleaning – can do on regular basis, move-in or move-out, construction clean, also will do curio/china cabinets and special projects. Experienced in all areas including detail and organization. Reasonable rates and references. Call (539) 664-1986.
Does Technology Frustrate You? Honest, patient, ethical help with your pc, modem, wifi, cell phone, email, streaming, camera, password recovery, etc. 30+ years of IT experience in Tulsa. Special rates for seniors. References available.Call or text Carmen Armstrong. (918) 688-7453.
Daytime Care For Older Loved Ones
LIFE’s Adult Day Health offers convenient, affordable daytime care at three locations in Tulsa and Broken Arrow. For more information, call LIFE’s Adult Day Health at (918) 664-9000.
AARP Smart Driver Course
Take the AARP Smart Driver Course and learn proven safe driving strategies plus possibly get a discount on your car insurance. Courses available in the Tulsa area. (866) 238-8355.aarp. org/drive. Interested in becoming a volunteer instructor? aarp.org/auto/ driver-safety/volunteer.
2MS Estate Sales...Tulsa’s Finest! Downsizing? Estate Liquidation? Let us take the worry away and maximize your return. No out of pocket expense. We specialize in senior transitions, with over 20 years in the senior housing market. My team includes realtors, moving company, senior housing and attorneys if needed. Please contact Michelle Reed (918) 691-5893 or Atulsa@aol.com also Facebook 2MSestatesalestulsa for a free consultation.
Exquisite Estate Sales
Life transitions are stressful. We make it easier. A premier Tulsa estate sale company, Exquisite Estate Sales provides professional, trustworthy estate sale services for all sizes of sales, including luxury estates. We make each sale profitable and pleasant for our clients and our sale guests…an exquisite experience from start to finish! Free Consultations (918) 284-4061 or exquisite-estatesales.com.
A New Medicare Plan! Do you know about the new Medicare Supplement Birthday Rule? Each year, starting on your birthday, you have 60 days to shop and enroll into a different Medicare Supplement plan with no medical questions! Find out more by calling MedicarePrepare at (918) 420-9999. Our local agents can answer your questions and may be able to save you money on premiums.
Medicare Assistance Program (MAP) at LIFE Senior Services provides accurate information, counseling and assistance for Medicare beneficiaries, their representatives and persons soon to be eligible for Medicare. Call MAP at LIFE Senior Services (918) 664-9000 or toll-free at (866) 664-9009.
AAA Lawns & More
Total tree and lawn care. Specializing in reasonably priced tree removal or trimming any size tree. Fence repair and installation. Insured, honest, experienced and dependable. Veteranowned. We are a small company with personal service. References available. FREE ESTIMATES. Call Larry. (918) 361-1299.
Aardwolf Leaf & Lawn Care
Mowing, weed eating, edging, hedge trimming, garden tilling, gutter cleaning and lawn clean-up. Free Estimates! Call Patrick Mills. (918) 814-0973.
Affordable Leaf & Limb Removal
Affordable leaf and limb removal. Light Hauling. Veteran Owned. Senior Discount. Reasonable rates. Call (918) 697-4321.
Garden Services
Flowerbed Design. Garden Installation – specializing in Butterfly & Earthkind gardens. Schedule garden maintenance. Weeding, mulching, annual color, Spring & Fall cleanup, hedge & shrub trimming, tree trimming, tree removal, stone pathways. Call Charles (918) 636-0298.
J Kirby Tractor Service Gardens tilled, Brush hogging and Front loader work. Call (918) 519-5203 or (918) 428-7990
Kimble Davis Tree Service
Specializing in large tree removal and trimming. We also perform preventative tree maintenance and trimming for the health of all your trees. Please call for free estimate. (55’ bucket truck, chipper truck, crane). Call Kimble (918) 853-5383.
Mower Repair / Maintenance
All brands – Riders, ZTRs, Walk-behinds, UTVs / ATVs. Top Quality work, ASE certified Mechanic. Pick-up and delivery available. Tulsa and surrounding counties. Maintenance specials include pick-up and delivery 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Call Scott (918) 519-3869.
New Season Lawn & Tree Spring clean-up available. Mowing, trimming, leaf removal, hedge trimming, flower beds. Small tree trimming. We offer weekly, bi-weekly & year-round services. Best rates, senior discounts. Free Estimates. Accepting new customers!! Call Todd (918) 639-2262. Email info@newseasonlawnandtree. com, and check us out at www.newseasonlawnandtree.com.
New Season Tree Masters
Specializing in tree removal and stump grinding. Tree trimming service available. Certified arborist on staff.
Serving all of metro Tulsa with over 20 years’ experience. Fully insured. Free estimates Contact us at info@newseasontreemasters.com or call Todd at (918) 934-4868. www.newseasontreemasters.com.
Big C’s Plumbing Services
Your one-stop-plumbing shop! Call us and I guarantee you will never have to call another plumbing company. Licensed, bonded and insured for your protection...Call (918) 855-9216, tell us you saw us in the Vintage Newsmagazine and receive an automatic 10% discount. Call us now.
Bumgartner Plumbing
Licensed, with over 40 years of experience. Rates are low and based on the job, not the hour. No service call fee or travel time charge. Senior and caregiver discount. Plumbing service and repair our specialty. Honest, professional service you can count on. Lic. #82750. (918) 355-4747.
DRYWALL & PAINTING
New to the Tulsa area! I specialize in drywall repairs, wood repairs, matching textures, painting interior/exterior. Insured and free estimates. Help us grow in the Tulsa community or in your community!! Call John at (918) 600-9129.
Eternal Way Construction
We can take your dreams and make them a reality. From foundation repair to roofing and EVERYTHING in between, we do remodeling, roofing, flooring, tile, carpet, drywall, painting, foundation repair, plumbing, electrical, and much more. Multiple crews for timely job starts. See our work on Facebook and Eternalwayconstruction.com. Edward (918) 819-7719.
In a Jam? Services
Around the home repairs or replacements, inside and out.
Fence Repair/Replacement, Power Washing, Gutter Cleanout, Garage/ Attic Cleanout, Haul-off, Leaf/Snow Removal, Staining/Painting, Drywall Patching/Replacement, Tile/Flooring, Deck Repair, and much more! No job is too small. Have any questions, please give me a call. Joe Moody (918) 740-7209 INAJAMSERVICES77@gmail.com.
JC Restores Construction
Christ centered remodeling and construction service. Services include full home renovation, flooring, fence/ deck, pavilions, bathroom and kitchen, drywall, interior/exterior paint, landscaping, wheelchair ramps, handyman services. Whatever you need we will take care of it. Including prayer! Call for free estimate (918) 509-5407.
KMS Heating & Cooling
Locally owned since 1979, KMS is proud to be your new HVAC provider! Your comfort is our top priority, and our team of experienced technicians and staff are dedicated to providing you with prompt, reliable, and personalized
service for all your residential and commercial HVAC needs. (918) 834-7000. www.kmshvac.com.
Same Day Services
Light Hauling or Moving – deliverypower washing-patio furniture-help you rearrange room furniture, lawn mowing/ leaves/small paint jobs/fence staining/ fence repair/light construction/window cleaning. We are honest, dependable. References. Call (918) 313-5230 estimates free.
Scrap Metal Haul Off Free haul off/pick up of appliances such as washers, dryers, refrigerators, air conditioners, hot water tanks and any scrap metal. Call John at (918) 313-4405.
Thackeray & Sons Painting and Repair
No job too big or small. We do it ALL! (918) 946-1209.
Searching for Rental Property in Tulsa
I am searching for a street level private rental property with walker access, possibly a mother-in-law suite or similar. The apartment or house needs to have doors wide enough for a walker and no stairs. Month-to-month or shortterm leases are preferred. Call Denise at (918) 576-8678.
75 Years Experience in Oklahoma Courts
Frasier Law Firm is a full-service Tulsa firm with decades of experience in all Oklahoma courts. We handle all matters, including probate, wills and trusts, personal injury and negligence cases. We have estate planning specialists. Reach us at (918) 5844724 or frasier@tulsa.com.
Full Service Estate Planning Law Firm
Trusts, Wills, Gift and Tax Planning, Powers of Attorneys and more! With offices in Sand Springs and Tulsa. Discount to Veterans and Retired Teachers. Willing to meet you in your place for no extra charge! Call Penni of the Skillern Law Firm at (918) 805-2511. www.skillernlaw.com.
BISON MOVING TULSA
Family-owned local moving company, experienced with senior relocations. Packing, labor-only or full-service available, customized to your needs and budget. Competitive pricing; discounts available for veterans and first responders. Call us at (918) 800-4267 or visit our website at www.bisonmoving.com.
Tulsa Movers
Pianos, Office, Home. Load or Unload
Rental Trucks. Low Rates. Free Estimates. 10% discount off every move! Dependable Movers! Call (918) 836-3225
Notary Services Available 24/7 Notary available. Never closed.
Will come to your home. Will go to hospitals, nursing homes, private homes as needed. Call Joanne at (918) 282-8230.
AFFORDABLE ORGANIZING
Too busy to stay organized? Overwhelmed? Return harmony to your home and life. We help with: Downsizing, relocating (pack & unpack), setting up home offices, assisting with placing shelf paper. Organizing one room or an entire house. Monthly maintenance. Disperse unwanted possessions. Seasonal transitioning. Call Pat at Organize to Harmonize: (918) 200-5991.
Home Health Services
Tulsa’s Affordable Home Care offers compassionate, quality home care services to individuals. We provide the following services: personal care, bathing and dressing, companionship, exercise, grocery shopping, laundry, light housekeeping, medication reminders, meal planning and preparation, oral and personal hygiene, respite care for family caregivers. We are now partnered with Veteran Affairs and accept long-term care insurance. Please call (918) 622-7820 and schedule a free consultation!!!
Keep Your Independence
We will help you smooth out those little bumps in Life. Don’t know who to call? Senior Shenanigans-Flexible/Reliable/ Affordable/Creative. In a bind? Let’s work it out together! Stay Free and Safe! Misti (817) 559-3688/ Bill (918) 934-0999.
SENIOR RELOCATION SPECIALIST
Jack(ie) of ALL Trades
Are you going, coming, or just staying put? As "Ms PAC Ma'am" I can pack, unpack, organize, declutter, or downsize a closet, room, garage, attic, or whole house. As "Ms Fixit" I can also assemble your items, hang pictures, decorate, do small odd jobs, or minor repairs. Flexible hours. References available. AFFORDABLE! $25 hour/2 hour minimum. Jacki (918) 922-9558.
WARSHAW GROUP, LLC
Putting Affairs in Order: something many of us don't like to think about, but deep down we understand its importance for the future well-being of loved ones. We help gather and coordinate documents/information to better prepare you for working with your professionals. Strictly confidential. Bobbi Warshaw, MPH and Bob Warshaw, MBA. (918) 852-5302; bobbi.warshaw@att.net
Safety Grab Bar Supply and Installation
Including handicap accessories for Residential, Commercial, Decorative, Indoor/Outdoor, Stairways, Bathrooms, and more. Secure your space, whether existing, remodeling or new construction, we handle it all. Call before you fall! Free Estimates. Licensed & Insured with over 20 years experience. Grab Bars of Tulsa, (918) 619-7324.
Affordable Hairstyling In-Home or My Shop
With 37 years’ experience, I can help with all of your hairstyling needs. Men’s and women’s haircuts, specializing in seniors. I will come to your home or you can come to my shop. Inshop special: haircut $7 for first time customers only and perms for $50. Available Tuesday – Saturday. A Mane Event hairstyling, located near 11th and Yale at 937 South Canton. Call Mary Wilkinson at (918) 834-2686.
Manicures and Pedicures Available I provide house calls for manicures and pedicures. Call or text Yvonne at (918) 289-4171.
Salon Retro
Hair care for men and women, specializing in senior clients. First time customers receive one of the following $17. Haircut style not included, or perm and one cut $52. Long hair special wrap extra style not included. Manicures $15, pedicures $25. Experienced hairdressers and nail tech. In shop services only. Come and see us at Midtown at Highland Plaza, 5661 East 41 Street (corner of 41st and Hudson). (918) 742-3440.
Dog Walker
The Woof Pack Tulsa: Dependable dog walking services for your four-legged family in Tulsa. Helping you take care of your furry friends when you’re out! We offer dog walking and pet pop-ins. Insured. Call or text us at (918) 770-6699. Visit our website at www.thewoofpacktulsa.com.
Home Veterinary Care
Experience Tulsa’s most convenient veterinary service in the comfort of your own home. Our goal is to develop a personal relationship with each of our clients and patients. Contact us today to schedule your house call appointment. Call (918) 892-9382 or email DrFielstra@gmail.com or visit us at www.homevetcaretulsa.com.
Kitty Needing A Loving Home
Lady is an indoor-only adult shorthair cat who lost her owner in February. This love bug needs a new caring home in the Tulsa area, and would do best in a senior household with someone who can spend plenty of time cuddling. If interested, please contact Susan at (713) 854-7723.
Office Space Available + Office Furniture
Nice offices in a small office building located in a great south Tulsa location are available. Close to post office, medical facilities and bus service! Ideal for professional and high-tech uses! Rentals start at $200 per month! Also have office furniture for sale or rent. Call Ty at (918) 639-1248, feel free to leave a voice mail!
Mature Transitions of Tulsa
Certified housing professional (CSHP), Senior Home Coach helping Seniors age in the right place. I educate, empower, and equip seniors and/or their adult
children to provide a one source solution for their Transitions fears. When it no longer becomes safe to live at home, I help find the right place, downsize, declutter, pack move, resettle, do the estate sale/ liquidation and sell the family home. Call (918) 605-1480 today for your FREE consultation. Overjoyed NOT Overwhelmed!!!
Seniors (50+)
We are a fun-loving group of seniors over 50. We meet every Thursday, 11:00 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. at the Golden Corral, 8144 East 21st Street. We eat at 11:00, have a short meeting and then play cards. Join us for great fun and fellowship. Questions, call Linda at (918) 955-9180.
My Driver Transportation Service
Let me do the driving. To and from work, airport, shopping, errands, post office, appointments. Also, LIFT VAN transportation available. Able to assist getting to and from bed. Senior sitting. Also, small breed dog boarding. 20 years experience. CLEET certified and licensed. References. Member, Better Business Bureau. (918) 491-9929.
NOW AVAILABLE
Entrusted Transport provides non-emergency medical & senior transportation services throughout Oklahoma. Our drivers are courteous & highly professional. We assist riders all the way to check-in at your appointment OR to home, just like family would! Wheelchair vehicles available. Call (918) 290-3400, Schedule rides any date & time. EntrustedTransport.com.
JUST DO IT!
If you've been looking for a way you can make a difference, consider joining the Millennium Hospice team as a volunteer. Caregiver relief is so important during this difficult time. Volunteers provide caregiver relief by sitting with patients for an hour or so. Training is provided. (918) 740-0244.
Volunteer for LIFE
Discover the variety of volunteer opportunities that LIFE Senior Services has to offer. Whether you want to volunteer within the organization or with one of our local non-profit or public agencies, we can find the best fit for you. (918) 664-9000.
Dale Girdner In Memory of Eva Girdner
Lois O'Neal In Memory of Russell Keith and Thomas Keith O'Neal
1. Competition 2. Commute 3. Cow 4. Coat 5. Cork
6. Copper 7. Cook 8. Compass 9. Couple 10. Common
1. Words of wisdom 2. All dressed up and no place to go
Apple
Orange
Courtesy of Food52 Makes 4 Servings
Ingredients:
• 8 Black Mission figs
• 14 ounces Greek yogurt
• 6 tablespoons honey, divided
• 4 ounces walnuts, chopped
• Optional mint leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425 F.
2. Cut figs in half lengthwise. Place figs cut side up in a baking dish. Brush 2 tablespoons of honey over the cut side of the figs.
3. Bake figs for 12 minutes, until just softened and heated through. Let cool 5 to 10 minutes.
4. For each serving, spoon about ½ cup Greek yogurt, top with 4 fig halves, and drizzle with 1 tablespoon of honey. Sprinkle 1 ounce of walnuts on each serving. Garnish with mint leaves and serve.
Ingredients:
• 8 fresh figs, halved (about 2 cups)
• 2 lemons, divided
• ¼ cup capers, drained
• ½ cup dried figs, halved
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh oregano, plus more for garnish
• 6 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, divided
• 1 tablespoon salt, divided
• 1 ½ teaspoons black pepper, divided
• 8 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 3 ½ pounds)
• 12 cloves of garlic, smashed
Recipe courtesy of Food & Wine
Makes 4 servings
• 1 cup dry white wine
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350 F. Juice two lemons to equal ¼ cup; place juice in a small bowl. Whisk capers, honey, oregano, 4 tablespoons olive oil, 1 teaspoon salt, and ½ teaspoon pepper into the bowl with lemon juice.
2. Heat the remaining 2 tablespoons of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sprinkle chicken with remaining 2 teaspoons salt and remaining 1 teaspoon pepper. Working in two batches, add chicken, skin side down, to a skillet; cook until golden brown and fat is rendered, around 6 to 8 minutes per batch.
3. Transfer chicken, skin side up, to a plate. Add garlic to drippings in skillet; cook over medium-high heat, stirring constantly, until golden, about 1 minute. Add wine and dried figs, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet; cook until liquid is reduced by half, about 2 minutes. Remove from heat.
4. Pour sauce into a 14-inch lidded oval baking dish. Add chicken, skin side up, to the dish. Add fresh figs; pour lemon juice mixture over chicken.
5. Cover baking dish with lid; cook in preheated oven for 20 minutes. Uncover; cook until golden brown, about 35 minutes more. Garnish with additional oregano and serve.
Ingredients:
• 3 fennel bulbs
• 4 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
• 2 tablespoons finely chopped oregano, thyme, and fennel fronds
• 1 lemon, zested
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• ⅓ cup freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese
Courtesy of The Mediterranean Dish Makes 6 Servings
• A few drops of balsamic vinegar, optional
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400 F. Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment.
2. Trim the root end of the fennel bulbs and cut off the stems. Slice each bulb in half from the stem side to the root. Then cut each half into four wedges.
3. Place fennel wedges in a bowl and add olive oil, herbs, zest from one lemon, a pinch of salt, and freshly ground pepper. Toss gently with your hands to thoroughly coat the fennel.
4. Spread fennel wedges out on the prepared baking sheet. Roast for 15 minutes, or until the wedges have started to turn golden. Sprinkle on the Parmigiano cheese, coating the wedges evenly, and roast for 10 – 15 minutes more, until the cheese is nicely browned and the fennel is browned and caramelized in spots.
5. Plate the fennel on a serving platter. To bring out its sweet notes, add a few drops of balsamic vinegar on top.
Ingredients:
Marinade
• 2 tablespoons stone ground mustard
• 2 garlic cloves finely chopped or grated
• 1 lemon zested and juiced
• 2 clementines zested and juiced
• 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 1 tablespoons fresh thyme about 4 sprigs, leaves chopped
• 1 teaspoon Kosher salt
Courtesy of Little Ferraro Kitchen Makes 4 Servings
• ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425 F.
2. In a bowl, add the whole grain mustard, garlic, turmeric, citrus zest and juice, thyme leaves, and salt and pepper and mix to combine.
3. Pat the chicken pieces dry with paper towels and add to the turmeric mixture and massage the marinade all over the chicken. if you have the time, let it marinate for at least 20 minutes, up to overnight.
4. Heat a large cast iron skillet over medium-high heat and pour in the olive oil. Once hot, add the
Roast Chicken
• 2 pounds bone in, skin on chicken thighs
• ½ cup olive oil
• 1 fennel bulb, stems removed and cut into thin wedges
• 1 lemon sliced thin
• 2 clementines sliced thin
• 1 ½ cups chicken stock, low sodium, preferred
• Fresh thyme sprigs
chicken and sear on each side so the outside is a deep yellow brown color, about 3 minutes on each side.
5. Once seared, nestle in the fennel wedges, clementine and lemon slices add more thyme sprigs on top. Pour the chicken stock around the chicken and bring up to a strong simmer, then carefully place the skillet in the oven and cook for about 28-30 minutes, until the chicken is fully cooked.
6. Once the chicken is done, the sauce should have thickened and fennel and citrus should be tender. Allow the roast chicken to rest for at least 5 minute before serving.
Tabletop containers, like a pot of fun succulents, are especially timely with air quality issues. Easy and beneficial indoor air purifiers include spider plants, philodendrons, blooming peace lilies, and bromeliads.
Terrarium growing is fun and low maintenance for gardeners of all ages. A terrarium can be a simple cup with a lid, a container on a table, a pedestal version, or even a hanging terrarium. Be sure to have a cover that holds in moisture yet can be removed for watering and tending the plants.
Keyhole gardens are good for areas with poor soil. Keyhole gardens are raised beds framed to provide a controlled growing environment with materials like stones or concrete blocks to hold the soil and offer good drainage. One side is the “keyhole” entry to access plantings and maintain a composting spot or basket where yard and kitchen waste can be used to feed the plants.
A popular app for plant care offering reminders, plant profiles, and a community for plant lovers. 2. LEAFSNAP Helps identify plants by their leaves. Useful for both garden and house plants. 3. PLANTSNAP
Another plant identification app that uses image recognition to identify plants. 4. GARDEN ANSWERS
Offers instant plant recognition and detailed information about plant characteristics and care requirements.
5. PICTURETHIS
A plant identification app with a focus on accuracy and ease of use.
6. GARDENIA
A plant care app that helps you track your plants and receive reminders. 7. VERA
Another plant care app that offers personalized care guides.
Keystone plants are essential in sustainable, pollinator-friendly gardening. Keystone plants are native to the ecosystem and provide support for 44 native bee species, 114 butterfly species, 98% of backyard birds that rely on insects for food, and dozens of other generalist pollinators foraging for nectar. They take less water and are lower maintenance once established. They minimize the need for resource-heavy lawns and offer focal points in the landscape. As natural pest controllers, keystones reduce the need for pesticides, synthetic chemicals, and fertilizers.
• Oaks White, black, bur, post, blackjack
• Pines
Pitch, Eastern white, Virginia
• Willows
Prairie, black, peach leaf, and sandbar
• Berries
Northern highbush blueberry, black high bush blueberry, hillside blueberry, sparkle berry, and deerberry
• Goldenrods
Stiff leaf, Atlantic, and Missouri
• Asters
Blue wood, smooth, white heath, and white prairie
Vertical gardening is great for those short on space as well as anyone who wants to minimize bending and stooping while tending plants. By using trellises, shelves, or wall-mounted containers, you can grow herbs, compact vegetables, flowers, and other plants s at a comfortable height, even on a porch or balcony. Vertical gardens can be a beautiful addition to a blank wall or fence. Save space as well as your back and knees.
Want to take your garden to new heights? Check out these 5 fun tips for vertical gardening success – watch the video below:
Accessible tools can keep plant lovers gardening longer and more safely by causing less physical strain.
1. Ergonomic hand tools
Look for tools made with cushioned, curved, or extended handles to reduce strain on wrists and hands.
2. Long-handled tools
Rakes, hoes, loppers, pruners, and cultivators with extended handles let you garden without bending, kneeling, or climbing a ladder.
3. Rolling garden seats or stools
Provide support and mobility while working at low levels, especially helpful for raised beds.
4. Raised garden beds or table planters
Raised beds bring the garden up to a comfortable height, ideal for wheelchair users or those who need to stand or sit whenever possible.
Oklahoma Gardening, a television show produced by Oklahoma State University, is celebrating its 50th anniversary. Watch it live on OETA Saturdays at 11 a.m. and Sundays at 3 p.m. or catch it anytime at pbs.org, youtube.com/oklahomagardening, and youtube.com/okgardeningclassics.
Click the links below to check out some videos on garden prep and creating a pollinator paradise:
Tulsa County Master Gardeners is a nonprofit, volunteer organization dedicated to helping local gardeners succeed. With over 400 members, TMG provides Oklahoma State University-backed education and hands-on guidance to support home gardeners, schools, and community groups. Learn more from them at tulsamastergardeners. org and on their YouTube channel: youtube.com/@ tulsacountymastergardeners8804
Check out this video all about the bugs that make your garden thrive:
Paul James, the Gardener Guy, now represents Southwood Nursery on Tulsa-area television newscasts. He had an HGTV show called Paul James, Gardening by the Yard, for 13 years. Many of those episodes can be viewed on Amazon Prime. His gardening blog on southwoodgardencenter.com has a lot of helpful information.
Check out this video on how to keep your house plants thriving from Paul James, The Gardener Guy:
Choosing different feeders will widen the variety of avian visitors. Basic designs include hanging tubes and platform tray types. Window-mounted feeders can lead to birds striking the glass, so position those a few feet from windows. The Audubon Society recommends placing your choice within three feet of the nearest window or more than 30 feet away from the house.
Ideally, you want something sturdy, weatherproof, and simple to clean — requirements that are filled by a platform feeder. Although its ease of access is attractive to a large number of birds, it will also be a magnet for squirrels and other undesirable competitors for the seed. Platform feeders must be cleaned frequently to avoid contamination and mold.
House or hopper, feeders hold lots of seed and the roof helps it remain dry, but this type can be hard to clean (look for one with a removable lid or sides). The tube types come in an array of sizes that tempt different species and sizes of birds. Without a platform, there is no place to perch and the food will not be contaminated by their droppings.
Ideally, you want something sturdy, weatherproof, and simple to clean — requirements that are filled by a platform feeder.
1 The hundred target, in Pilates
Wander (about)
Bloke
"The Search for General __": food documentary
Tussle over a 58-Down entry
Avenger in armor
Foot fashion
"Just decide!"
Stuck in one's craw
Sales channel 24 Pokémon that evolves into Kadabra
For fear that
Rte. finder
29 Around the clock worker?
30 Remedy known as "having a counter-beer" in German
35 Surfaces, e.g.
38 "So that's __?" 39 Styled like
Paramount+ partner, briefly
In great shape
"That's valid"
46 With 9-Down, traveling employee's allowance
Body part with cinco dedos
51 Cautionary __
52 Landmark civil rights law acronym
54 Try to buy from Ebay
55 Friend's invitation before a party, or a TikTok genre that shows off the starts of 20-, 30-, and 41-Across
59 Prep roses for "The Bachelor," say
60 Spot far from the nosebleeds
61 Tums, e.g.
62 Scrape (out)
63 Like much omakase
64 Benefit that may be rolled over: Abbr.
65 Peele's partner
66 Sloth in "Ice Age"
67 Genre with intense lyrics
1 Cracker shape
2 Scold
3 Tends a fire
4 Spectrum
5 "Now!" letters
6 Be Delicious perfume co.
7 "We'll take it from here"
8 Add sparkle, say
9 See 46-Across
10 Places to sleep tight?
11 "Killing Eve" star
12 Agcy.
16 Priority system
18 Not o'er
21 Très
25 Best Picture winner set in Iran
27 Torres of "9-1-1: Lone Star"
28 TA overseer
31 Wall clock inserts
32 Taper
33 "In short" initialism
34 "2001" supercomputer
35 "As if!"
36 Role in many a spy thriller
37 120mm Louboutin feature
42 "Queen of Soul" Franklin
43 Tipping point on a counter?
44 Puts off
48 Hold fast (to)
49 "Nuh-uh!"
50 Punch recipe?
52 Bird of prey's nest
53 Hunky-dory
54 Ostrich or emu
56 Giant diamond
57 First name in haute couture
58 Collaborative site
59 "The Sacred Art of Giving __": Ta-Nehisi Coates essay about a friendly greeting