LIFE EDU

TRAVELING WITH OLDER PARENTS

Tulsa comedian and writer Barry Friedman often writes about his 95-yearold father, Jack Friedman, in his blog Friedmanoftheplains.com. When Friedman’s nephew requested Jack’s presence at his wedding in New York a few years ago, Friedman took the opportunity to travel with his father, who now lives in Tulsa, back to their mutual hometown to attend the event. As one might expect, the trip had its challenges, including travel delays and cancellations, but for Barry Friedman, the result was few regrets and plenty of content for his blog. “At the end of the trip, it was worth it,” Friedman recalls. “A grandson had his grandfather there to see him get married.” For those contemplating a trip with an older parent, Friedman offers the following advice: “It will be exhausting; it will be impossible. You'll curse every moment of it. But go do it so those memories are always there." “If you can afford to, spend the money to go first class and get them comfortable. Be careful with connections, and travel nonstop when you can. Whatever they tell you, get a wheelchair, and don’t forget to bring snacks.” Like any great comedian, Friedman recounts his father-son travels in a way that is both humorous and poignant. “You suck and wring out as much of life as you can, and I know I'm doing that while I'm doing this. It's worth it because I know when he's not here, I'm going to have those memories,” he said.

For more, follow Barry's blog at Friedmanoftheplains.com

Virtual & In-Person Programming AUGUST 2022 Silver Linings

Join us every Wednesday on LIFE’s Facebook page for short segments on a variety of topics including upcoming events, Senior Center Spotlight, Ask SeniorLine, and living your best life.

“Alzheimer’s Disease and Travel” Wednesday, August 10

Erin Powell, LIFE’s behavioral health specialist, shares some general tips for traveling with someone who has Alzheimer’s disease. In-person seminar information is listed below.

“Medicaid Planning for Nursing Home Care” Wednesday, August 17

In advance of his August 26 seminar, Todd Whatley of OK Senior Law will discuss Medicaid planning and how it can help individuals qualify for Medicaid nursing home care without depleting most of their savings.

“LIFE Support – Staying Connected and Sharing Our Strengths” Wednesday, August 24

Learn about LIFE’s new peer-to-peer support group created to help combat isolation, and to provide a safe space where older adults can share, connect, and work through issues that come with aging.

“LIFE’s Adult Day Health: Making Life Better for Caregiving Families” Wednesday, August 31

If you are caring for an older adult with Alzheimer’s disease or other chronic conditions that keep them homebound to some degree, LIFE’s Adult Day Health could be just the help you have been needing.

Community Education

“Alzheimer’s Disease and Travel” Friday, August 12 • 10 – 11 a.m. Legacy Plaza East Conference Center, 5330 E. 31st St.

Family trips don’t have to be a thing of the past. Erin Powell will be sharing travel tips for caregivers with loved ones in different stages of Alzheimer’s disease. Register at LIFEseniorservices.org/education or by calling (918) 664-9000, ext. 1181.

“Fall Prevention and Hip Fractures” Tuesday, August 16 • 2 – 3 p.m. Legacy Plaza East Conference Center • 5330 E. 31st St.

An occupational and physical therapist will share tips on fall prevention and address the realities of hip fractures. Register online at LIFEseniorservices. org/education or by calling (918) 664-9000, ext. 1181.

“Basics of Medicare” Wednesday, August 17 • 10 a.m. – Noon Legacy Plaza East Conference Center • 5330 E. 31st St.

“Basics of Medicare” is designed specifically for those newly eligible or soonto-be eligible for Medicare. Reservations are required and can be made by calling LIFE’s Medicare Assistance Program at (918) 664-9000, ext. 1189.

“Legal Strategies for Medicaid Planning” Friday, August 26, 10 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. Legacy Plaza East Conference Center • 5330 E. 31st St.

Join OK Senior Law as they walk you through the pre-planning and crisis planning steps that can be taken to qualify for Medicaid for nursing home care without having to spend most of your savings. Register at LIFEseniorservices.org/education or by calling (918) 664-9000, ext. 1181.