Greenbrier Village 2014

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TheHackettfamilyispleasedtoprovidethismagazineasaneducationalgift to you. The articles were written by Lori Hackett-Long and JackieLaCrouxi.ThearticlesexpressLori’sthoughts,philosophyandeducationshehasobtainedover themanyyearsserving in theseniorcarefieldof work.Theyhopeyouenjoyreadingthem. HermanandGailHackettmadetheirdreamsarealityin1971whentheyopenedGreenbrier.Through the years, their family has grownGreenbrierintooneof thefinestretirementcommunitiesinnorthwestOklahoma. GreenbrierVillageisuniquelydesignedtoprovidethemostappropriatelevelof housingandservicesthrougheachof itsfivelevelsof care:BurgundyPlace (Senior Independent Apartments), Assisted Living, The Homes of Greenbrier, Rogers Home (memory support) and Skilled Nursing andRehabilitationCenter.

Grace:byJacquelineHincePhotosbyNancyKillam

“Lifeistenpercentwhathappenstoyouandninetypercenthowyoureacttoit.” --CharlesR.Swindoll

Learning How To Cope

Growing Through The Years With

Life is full of challenges. Every day we are confronted withproblemsanddifficultiestoovercome.Nooneisimmunetotragedyandalthoughwecannotalwayscontrolwhathappensinlifewecancontrolhowwereactto it.“Anormalpartof livingforallages iscopingwith challenges,problems, stresses;whether goodorbad,”explainsLoriLong.“Youhavetocopeeveryday.Theworldischang-ing.Yourlifeischangingeveryday.”Shegoesontosaythatthepro-

cessesweusetohandlethesechangesarecalledcopingmechanisms.Long,whoisanactivememberof herfamily’sbusiness,GreenbrierVillage,hasapassionforhelpingpeople,especiallytheelderly,findways todealwithdaily stressesandchallenges.ThoughLongsaystypicallythecopingmechanismoneusesisanautomaticresponse,itdoesn’thavetobethatway.“If weunderstandwhatsomecopingmechanismsare,”explainsLong,“wecanfirstidentifythemandthen

learntocontrolthem.” There are both negative and positivecoping mechanisms. Negative reactions in-clude “regression” or dealing with peopleandsituationsbyregressingbacktochildishbehavior and “projection”. “Projection isprojectingyourfeelingsontosomeoneelse,”explains Long. “For instance if you’ve hada disappointment or stressful day youmay

maintain your pleasant attitude to friendsandco-workersbutonceafamilymemberorspousewalksin,youjustletitallgoandproj-ectyourfrustrationandangeruponthatper-son.”Longgoesontosaythatif youdem-onstratethesebehaviors,itshouldalertyouthatyouneedtofindbetterwaystocope. Positivecopingmechanismsincludein-sight,faith,humororreminiscing.The“in-

sighttechnique”enablesyoutoaskanupsetpersonif they’rehavingahardtime.Thegoalisforthetwoof youtotalkopenlytogeth-er. “Just listen and listenvery closely,” saysLong.“Thenreflectbackwhattheyjusttoldyou.You do not need to solve their prob-lems.Youdonotneedtogivethemanan-swer.Whattheyneedtocopeistoknowthatsomeonehaslistenedtothemandsomeone

MattieWilcox&BarbieRich

understandsthem.” Coupling her experience and educa-tional training,Longbelieves that faith is averyimportantcopingmechanismuseddailyformany individuals. Families, friendsandcaregiverscanencouragereligiouspeopletoleanontheirfaithbysharingscriptureprom-isesandotherwordsof faith.OvertheyearsLong has observed how older adults needspiritual encouragement through continuedsupport and visits. ReverendDon Johnsonis theassociatepastorat theCentralChris-

tian Church in Enid and volunteers muchof his timemeeting the religious needs of residentsatGreenbrier.Heoftenseespeoplewhoaredealingwithlossleanontheirfaith.“Throughprayerandworshipapersoncanturnawayfromthepressingsituation,allowyourself to be calm, and then three thingscomefromthis.Oneisguidanceondifficultdecisions,thesecondthingisencouragementto put those decisions into action and thethirdisstrengthtocompletethoseactions.”Reverend Johnson saysnotonlydopeople

turntoGodintimesof need,buttheycanalsoturntoothermembersof theirchurchand their faith leader for support. “I thinkwhenyouhavearelationshipwithGod,withpeopleinthecongregationandwithafaithleader the advice youget is advice youcantrust.” Usinghumortocopecanprovidesomerelease for you when in a tense situation.“Humorhelpsusalluniteinourhumannessof dealing togetherwith a littlemore lighthearted attitude,” says Long. However she

cautionsyoutousehumoronlyif thepersoninneedusesit. Lastlythere’sreminiscing.Reminiscingiswhenyouexpressortalk about former events, recollections or accomplishments. “Forinstance, if it is thebirthdayoranniversaryof a lovedonewhoisno longer living or one of the ‘firsts’ after a significant other haspassed;thereminiscingof thatpersonisacopingmechanismthataddswarmth,comfortandlove,”saysLong. ThoughLongsayseverypersonateveryagemustusecopingmechanismstodealwithdaytodaylife,shesaysaswegrowolder

weoftenhavemorechallengesandissuestocopewith.Asyouageyourbodymayhavemoreissuesforyoutoworkthroughandlosssadlyhappensmorefrequently.Shesaysthat’swhyit’simportantyoulearntoidentifythedifferenttypesof copingmechanismsnowandcontinuallyworktoemploymorepositivemethods.“Youcanlearntohelpyourself,youcanhelpyourchildrenandyoucanevendirecttheolderpeopleinyourfamilytohavemorepositivewaysof copinganddealingwithsituations.Thatinturnwillhelpyouandyourlovedoneslearntogrowmoregracefullythroughtheyears.”

BertSims,GeneWoelke&RevDonJohnsonprayingtogether

RevDonJohnson&CloRinesayingtheLord’sPrayer ShannaKnight&CloRine-Enjoyinganicemomentof Reminising.

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Grace:Growing Through The Years With

Thoughmostwouldagreehonestyisimportantinallrelationships,Lori Long says when it comes to communicating with oldergenerations, being open and truthful is imperative. “Over the lastthirty-twoyearsIhaveseenfamiliesstrugglewhencommunicatingwiththeirolderparents,”observesLong.“Wehavetocomeupwiththisideathattohonorandrespectoneanotherwehavetoallowan

olderperson tocommunicatehonestlywhat theyneedandacceptthat.”Longhasstudiedtheprocessof agingforyears.ShehashermastersinGerontology,haswrittenabookonthesubjectandisanactivememberof herfamily’sbusinessGreenbrierVillage.Inordertopromotehealthycommunicationinherownfamily,Longcreatedsomethingshecalls“TheAgreement”:

I agree to communicate honestly with you. When I offer something I truly mean it and when I accept one of your offers I do so because I want to. My actions will be genuine. I will not do or say anything out of feelings of guilt or obligation. In turn, you must be honest with me. Whether you are accepting an offer or asking for something, your responses and actions will reflect what you truly desire. We do this to honor and respect each other and our relationship.

(Readerswillnotice“TheAgreement”isonthepostcardattachmentfoundwithinthesepages.)

Anewstudyhasfoundthathonestymaytrulybethebestpolicy.We’veallheardthefamiliarquote.Nownewfindingsinthe“Scienceof Honesty”presentedatthisyear’sAmericanPsychologicalAssociation’s120thAnnualConventionsaypeoplewhoworktotellthetruthhave

bettermentalandphysicalhealth.Thisarticlesuggestsitalsoimprovesthehealthof yourrelationships.

byJacquelineHincePhotosbyNancyKillam

THEAGREEMENT

Theonly rule of “TheAgreement” is thatyoubothhavetofollowit.Youcandothatbygentlyremindingeachotherfromtimetotimethatyouroffersoractionsaresincere.Long has been employing her theory on“TheAgreement”inherownlifefornearlyeight years now. “It’s really changed therelationship with my parents. It allows metohonormyparents andyetbe able tobehonestwiththemandsay,‘I’mworried’or‘Iwanttoknowwhatareyouthinking?’”Youcan use “The Agreement” when decidingsomething as simple as offering to buy

groceries or when discussing certain legalissueslikeAdvanceDirectivesandPowerof Attorneys. In fact, Long says when havingthose necessary conversations, it’s essentialyou use it. “Life expectancy has increasedsince 1940,” says Long. “Back then it wasforty-seven years old. Today people live tobeanaverageof seventy-eight.Soyoucansee why it’s so important to talk openlyaboutwhatneedstobeinplace.Wehavetogetovertheideathisisa‘morbid’discussion.It isanaturalpartof the lifecycleandforthose that are getting older, especially

those of faith, this is not the end but thebeginning.” Longsaysrepeatedlysheseesagingadultsbattle between feeling like they may beinterferingwiththebusylivesof theirchildrenor, on the opposite end of the spectrum,that their childrenwillmisunderstand theirneeds and take away their independence.Fearsthatshesayscanberesolvedbytalkingcandidlyusing“TheAgreement”.“Youwillberelievedof worry,youwillberelievedof guiltandrelievedthatnooneisgoingtotakeaway your independence and yet you’ll still

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Infancy (birthto18months)Trustvs.Mistrust•FeedingChildren develop a sense of trust when caregivers providereliabilty,care,andaffection.Alackof thiswillleadtomistrust.

Early Childhood (2to3years)Autonomyvs.ShameandDoubt•ToiletTrainingChildren need to develop a sense of personal control overphysicalskillsandasenseof independence.Successleadstofeelingsof autonomy,failureresultsinfeelingsof shameanddoubt.

Preschool(3to5years)Initiativevs.Guilt•ExplorationChildrenneedtobeginassertingcontrolandpowerovertheenvironment.Successinthisstageleadstoasenseof purpose.Children who try to exert too much power experiencedisapproval,resultinginasenseof guilt.

School Age(6to11years)Industryvs.Inferiority•SchoolChildrenneedtocopewithnewsocialandacademicdemands.Successleadstoasenseof competence,whilefailureresultsinfeelingsof inferiority.

Adolescence (12to18years)Identityvs.RoleConfusion•SocialRelationshipsTeensneedtodevelopasenseof self andpersonalidentity.Successleadstoanabilitytostaytruetoyourself,whilefailureleadstoroleconfusionandaweaksenseof self.

Young Adulthood (19to40years)Intimacyvs.Isolation•RelationshipsYoungadultsneedtoformintimate,lovingrelationshipswithother people. Success leads to strong relationships, whilefailureresultsinlonelinessandisolation.

Middle Adulthood (40to65years)Generativityvs.Stagnation•WorkandParenthoodAdultsneedtocreateornurturethingsthatwilloutlastthem,often by having children or creating a positive change thatbenefitsotherpeople.Successleadstofeelingsof usefulnessand accomplishment, while failure results in shallowinvolvementintheworld.

Maturity (65todeath)EgoIntegrityvs.Despair•ReflectiononLifeOlder adults need to look back on life and feel a sense of fulfillment.Successatthisstageleadstofeelingsof wisdom,whilefailureresultsinregret,bitterness,anddespair.

ErikEriksondescribeddevelopmentthatoccursthroughoutthelifespan.LearnmoreinthischartsummarizingErikson’s

stagesof psychosocialdevelopment.

Stage • Basic Conflict • Important Events Outcome

Erikson’s Psychosocial Stages Summary Chart

feelcomfortablerelyingoneachother,”explainsLong. Throughout the various stages of life we all have differentneedstobemet.Notice inthediagramof ErikErikson’sstagesof psychosocialdevelopmentfromtheminutewe’reborntoourlasthourwehavecertainexpectations.If theyarenotmet,wefacefeelingsof mistrust,despair,failureandthelistgoeson.Manyof thethingsinthediagramrequireustorelyonourfamilyandlovedones.Thoughnofamilyisperfect,itisimportanttotryandbridgeanygapswiththoseclosesttoyou,sothatasyouageyoucanleanonone another.Oneway todo that is to start employing“TheAgreement”nowwithallyourrelationships.Longsaysintheend,beingcompletelytransparentwithoneanothercanonlymakeyoucloser.“Itdoesn’tmeanthatweinterferewitheachothers’lives,”concludesLong,“itjustallowsustoshareeachothers’lives.”

1960 20100

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Life ExpectancySince 1960 to 2010

ShirleyCampbell,DorisForesman&KenCampbell

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Astheyearstickbymanyof usareguiltyof tryingtoturnbacktheclockoratleastslowitdown.Magazinepagesareoftenlitteredwithanti-agingsecrets,creamsandtips.However,Dr.TomSnyder,theMedical Director at Greenbrier Village, says the key to aginggracefully isn’t found in a package. “The secrets to healthy agingareallcommonknowledgenow.Goodlifehabits,themoreexercise

thebetter,staysociallyandspirituallyinvolved,takecareof medicalneeds and preventative health. Successful aging doesn’t come in abottle.Itisnotasupplement.Itismoreof alifestyle.” Dr.Snyderhasauniqueviewof theelderlypopulation.Asadoctorfornearlythirtyyears,andthemedicaldirectoratGreenbrierVillageformorethantwenty,hehasseenfirsthandthephysicalandemotional

“Beautifulyoungpeopleareaccidentsof nature,butbeautifuloldpeopleareworksof art.”

--EleanorRoosevelt

byJacquelineHincePhotosbyCammeronKaiser

BECOMINGA“SURVIVOR”

effects aging has on the body. That’s whyhe calls the older generation “survivors”.He says they’re the tough ones among us.“They have made it through childhoodillnesses, and the struggles of adolescence.They have made it through the pitfalls of themid-partof life,likesubstanceabuseorthingslikeaccidentsorviolence.Someof it

isgenetic,someof itisgoodluckandsomeof itislifestyle,”mullsSnyder.Thereforetheelderlyarethepioneersamongus.Theyare“survivors”whohavedefeatedmanyof life’schallenges.Theyhaveamazingqualitieslikestaminaandasenseof resilience. Whichbegsthequestion,aretherethingsyoucandotobecomeasurvivor?

Dr. Snyder says there are steps youcan take to work to prolong your life andensure you have a better quality of life. Inhis experience the two greatest strugglesamong aging populations is isolation anddepression.Isolation,becauseitcanbecomeharder to keep or form new relationshipsand depression often stems from physical

DrSnyderwiththeAdmissiondirectorBobbieJoSuttonandresidentGlendaHazelton

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pain. “Aging is not for sissies,” saysDr. Snyder. “It involves a lotof pain, it involves some rejection, it involves change and that allsoundslikejuniorhigh.”Hesaysit’simperativetokeepandmaintainfriends,haveanactivesociallife,stayinvolvedinyourchurchandtrytomaintainstrongrelationshipswithyourchildrenorgrandchildren.“Thatcanreallymakeadifference,”saysDr.Snyder. Otheractions thatcanmakeadifference includeeatinghealthy,exercising regularly, visiting the doctor to get checkups as well asgettingplentyof resteachnight.“Aginggracefullyhasmuchmoreto

dowithcommonsensethenithastodowithanunhealthylifestyleortrendymedicalornutritionalentities,”reiteratesSnyder. Dr.Snydersaysbytakingstepsnow,youarepreparingyourbodyto battle the inevitable challenges and struggles that come withage.Dementia is the number one reason the elderly seeks refugein nursing homes, yet studies show physical activity may reducedementiabyasmuchasfiftypercent.Dr.Snydercitesdementiaasthemainculpritforfallsintheelderlyaswell.Hesuggestschildrenof aging parents ensure theirmother or father carry a cell phone

at all times to alert others if they take atumble.Fallingisalsooneof thefirstsignsthatagingparentsmaysoonneedassistance.However, it’s important to research thevarious levels of support available to yourlovedones.Agingpopulationscangetfamilyandfriendsupporttostayathome,ortheymayfindabetterfitinindependentseniororassistedliving.Skillednursinghomesarealsoavailabletoprovideroundtheclockcare.

Whenitcomestimetodecidingif lovedones need extra support, there is a list of “activitiesof dailyliving”thatcanhelpyoudetermine the functional status of a lovedone. “Things like their ability to preparefood, get in and out of the bathroom,wash clothes,maintain their home, get thenewspaper,keepfromfalling,paytheirbills,”explainsSnyder.ADL’s are thebestway togaugewhetherit’stimetomoveintoasenior

independent apartment, assisted living ornursinghome.Dr.Snyderencouragesyoutoconsultwithadoctorif you’reconcerned. Intheend,Dr.Snyderemphasizesthatnomatterourageweareallstillyoungatheart.Wemusttakeeachdayasagiftandlivelifetothefullest.“Allhumanshaveaneternalsoul,”concludesDr. Snyder. “So they’re basicallyyoungtheirwholelife,becauselifeisasmallchapterof aneternalsoul’sexistence.”

DrSnyderwithDirectorof NursingBrandiDavidson,MDSKarenSwankandResidentEvelynRadcliffe



EAT…DRINK…&AGEGRACEFULLY

“Onecannotthinkwell,lovewell,sleepwell,if onehasnotdinedwell.”

- Virginia WoolfA Room of One’s Own

If therewereawaytocalculatehowmanytimesthephrase“eatyourvegetables,”ismutteredeachdayitlikelywouldtoppopularitycharts.Motherstellchildrentogobbleuptheirgreens,doctorsanddieticianshammerpatientswiththerequestandnearlyeveryarticleabouthowtofightaging,loseweightorgethealthyrequiresaplatefullof produce.Vegetables,fruit,wholegrainsandlow-fatdairyareconsideredsomeof thebestanti-agingfoodsbutSydSmithsaysthatdoesn’tmeanyouhavetogiveuptheoccasionalguilty indulgence.“It’sallaboutbalanceandmoderation.”

Smith is the Dietary Consultant at Greenbrier Village andmanages the residents and patients throughout Greenbrier’s fivelevelsof careincludingBurgundyPlace,AssistedLiving,NursingHome, Rogers Home and Skilled Nursing and Rehabilitation.SmithhasworkedatGreenbrier foreighteenyears.Thisyear theOklahomaAssociation of Health Care Providers named her the2013Dieticianof theYearandhonoredherwiththe2013SuperHeroforDietaryAward.

SydSmith,AssistedLiving–IlamaeTerrell

Though Smith says moderation andportion control are a huge issue for allages,whentalkingaboutoldermorefragilegenerations,whatyoueatandhowmuchyoueat plays a direct role in your health. “Oh,dietiscritical,”emphasizesSmith.“Medicineis very important, all the treatmentswedoareveryimportantbutyouhavetomaintain

ahealthyintakeanddiettobuildthosecellsandtissuesbackupandtomaintainahealthyfunctioninyourentirebeing.” WhenanewclientcomestoGreenbrierSmith assesses their condition. Each newresidenthasindividualneedsbutSmithsaysthemost common issue she sees is seniorseliminatingcertainfoodsfromtheirdiet.“If they’vebeenathomeandtheyhaven’tbeen

cookingforthemselvesthentheymayhavestoppedeatingavarietyof thingsandinsteadtheyjustmadewhatwaseasy,orif theycomein and they’re having trouble chewing thentheymayhaveleftoutmeatsandvegetablesand other foods that are harder to chew.They may limit fluid intake because theyarenervousthey’llhaveanaccident.”Smithsayseven in thesesituations it is important

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tohaveawell-roundeddiet.Shesuggeststhosestrugglingconsultadoctororregistereddieticiantofindawaytoensurethey’regettingallthenutrientstheyneed. In2011,theDepartmentof Agriculturecreatedthe“MyPlate”campaigntopushAmericanstofilltheirplateswithvegetables,fruit,protein,grainsanddairyatmeals.“MyPlate”focusesonthingslikeconsumingwholefruitsfullof fiberratherthanjustdrinkingjuice,picking green leafy vegetables filled with antioxidants over onestoppedwith gravy and butter, and eatingwhole grains instead of their processed white flour counterparts. It also suggests you getproteinfrombeansorlegumesaswellasmeat.Drinkingplentyof waterthroughoutthedaytoavoiddehydrationisamust. Smithsaysfollowing“MyPlate”toeatbetterwillhaveapositiveeffectonnearlyeveryaspectof yourhealth.“Althoughitdependsonthatpersonandwhatthey’reconditionis,oftenwithinacoupleweeksof followingabetterdietpeoplefeelbetter,”reiteratesSmith.“They’re more hydrated which can even effects how clearly youthink,theyhavemoreenergyandthey’remorewillingtoparticipateinactivities.”Itcanaffectyouremotionalhealthaswell. Inordertoencouragetheirclientstofollowawellbalanceddiet,in1996GreenbrierNursingHomebeganaculturalchangetheycall“WelcomeHome”. The goal is to transform their nursing homefrommoreinstitutionalizedcaretofeelingasthoughyou’reinyourownhouse.Aspart of their effort to create that home-like livingspaceforagingresidentsSmithrevampedthediningroomtomakeitmoreof acafésetting.Residentsarenowgivenmenuseachdayandhaveanumberof choicestheycanmakewhenitcomestowhattheyeatandwhen.Smithsays it’smadeahugedifference,“EverybodylikestostillbeabletomakethosechoicesandhavethatcontrolintheirlifeandsoIthinkit’smadethemfeelbetteraboutthat.Theyjustlikethefreedomof itandlikecominginatdifferenttimes.Ifeelliketheyeatbetter.” Smith encourages the elderly living independently or with acaretakertolookforwaystomakeeatinghealthyreadilyaccessible.

BurgundyPlace-PatsyShepard,JenniferMoore,AnnieRoberts,MistyRowden,SharonWagner,TracieBrennan,SydSmith,GinaHowe

Homesof Greenbrier–MelbaBest,SydSmith

Pickupfreshproduceeveryweek,joinaservicesuchas“MealsonWheels”orgogroceryshopping foryour lovedone tomakesurefreshfruitsandvegetablesareonhand.Forthosewithagingparents,findingtimeforyouorsomeoneelsetogooverandcookhealthymeals yourparent can simply re-heatmayaid them in followingahealthiermealplan.“Havingthosethingsonhand,havingfruitsandvegetablestherewherethatpersoncanhavethatreadilyavailabletothemmeansthey’regoingtoeatbetter,”encouragesSmith.Eatingbetter means you’ll feel better to continue growing through youryearswithgrace.

ReferencesForArticle:helpguide.orgwww.choosemyplate.gov



FAMILYMATTERS

“Callitaclan,callitanetwork,callitatribe,callitafamily:Whateveryoucallit,whoeveryouare,youneedone.”

- Jane Howard

Family:theyhavetheirmomentsof encouragement,theirmomentsof laughterandtheirmomentsof uttercraziness,yetthatcoregroupof lovedones are the peoplewhowillmost likely carry our love,heritageandlegacyonlongafterweleavethisearth.Nowmorethaneverit’simperativeyouembraceyourfamilyandspendtimenotonlygettingtoknowthembutallowingthemtotrulyknowyou. Lori Long is a firm believer that as you age and progress inlife, and as your descendentsmultiply, it is crucial you pass alongyourcorevaluestothegenerationsbehindyou.Long,whosefamilyfoundedGreenbrierVillagehasseentimeandagainhowfamilycan

betheoneconstantinyourlife.Jobscomeandgo,friendscanmoveaway,butnomatterthedistance,familyoftenstaysclose.“Everyoneinthefamilyhopefullylooksuptotheolderpeople,theyhonorandrespectthem.Withthatcomesresponsibility.That’swhywe’reneverretired.Wemightberetiredfromacareeroranorganization,butinlifewe’reneverretired.There’salwayssomethingwecanteachtoourfamily,”saysLong. LongholdsaMaster’sinGerontology,andhastaughtonboththestateanduniversitylevelbutshesaysmuchof herknowledgeinlifecomesfromherownexperiencesandfromwatchingherparents.

Long says though lessons and educationcan be learned, wisdom has to be earned.Over the years, life’s situations and theenvironment around us shape the wisdomeach of us holds dear. “Life is marvelous;a marvelous adventure,” mulls Long. “Wearealllearningourownwisdomthatwecanthenpassdown.” Nowmore than ever it is critical thatyou take the necessary actions to pass thatwisdomdown.Longcitesherownparentsas

aprimeexampleof thevaluesthatcantravelthroughthelines.Raisedinthetinytownof Trousdale, Okla. (a town which no longerexists)herparentsmet in grade school.Asteenagers, her father worked on the familyfarmandhermother,notonlyhelpedraiseher four siblings, but also taught school.OvertheyearsLong’sparentshavedescribedtheir childhood toLong,how theyused togrow and savemost of their food, aswellaswhat entertainment they had back then.

Long’s folks have beenmarried sixty yearsnow and are still devoted, committed andincrediblylovingtowardsoneanother. Long’sparentsexcelledatpassingdownstories, and inadvertently, lessons to theyounger generations in their family. “Theytaught us from their own life experiences,”explains Long. “They taught us thatwe can make our life both meaningfuland purposeful. They taught us to haveenjoymentinrelationshipsandhowtohave

HermanHackett,CathyBurkhardt,LouiseRapp&JeaniceGrajales

character.Theytaughtusthattherearejustsomethingsinlife,verypreciousthings,thatyoujustcan’tbuy.” Long,whobeganworkingwithherparentsshortlyaftercollege,saysherpassionforservicealsocomesfromherparents.Herfather,takingnoteof thegrayingof Americaandtheneedforsafe,nurturinghomesfortheelderly,openedGreenbrierin1971.Longsaysworkingalongsideherfathersheoftenwitnessedhowhewouldtreatothersandthathealwaystooktimetoserveothers.“Eveninthetoughestof times,I’vealwaysfeltlikeif it’sinourpowertodogood,thendoit.That’salessonthatcomesfrommyparents,”recallsLong. Longrecognizesthatnotallfamilieshavethekindof strengthand togetherness her parents were able to instill in her. Manyfamilieshave scars andpasthurts that cloudgatherings and strainrelationships.Growingthroughtheyearswithgracecanoftenmeansofteningyourheartandforgivingothersoraskingotherstoforgiveyou.“Weneedforgivenessandtomoveon–we’reallgoingtobedisappointedbyotherhumanbeings,” saysLong. “At somepoint,even if theydon’taskforforgiveness,wemustforgiveandhaveasenseof restorationinourownlivesandinrelationships.Wecannotchangeotherpeoplebutwecanchangeourselves.” Thereareanumberof waystosparkaconversationwithyourfamilyandbeginpassingonyourheritageandwisdom.Ideallyweeachshouldstrivetobe livingexamplesof characterandintegrity,however even then, it is still important to keep open lines of communication. Long encouragesGreenbrier clients to take interest inwhat’sgoing on in their families lives. “It seems simple but our wordshavepower!”saysLong.“Theyhavethepowertoliftup,encourage,heal, but they also have the power to tear down anddestroy.”Asforyoungergenerations,youtoocanmakeapointof callingoldermembersregularlyandshowinterest,concern,supportandlove. Anotherwaytopassdownfamilyheritageisbywritingoutshortstoriesfromyourpast.Belowarefourtopicsyoucanwriteoutandgivetoyourfamily.Youngermemberscanalsousethetopicstoask

questionsof oldermembers.Usethesepromptstoopenuptoyourfamilyandtaketimetogether.Especiallywiththeholidayscoming,makethisyourgifttoshare: 1.Writeashortessayorsimplydiscusswhereyouwereborn,howmanybrothers’sistersyouhave,amemoryof yourparentsandwhatwasitlikeduringyourchildhood 2.Talkaboutafavoritestory/memoryaboutbeingmarried(if youwere)andhavingkids(if youdid) 3. Did you have a career or special hobby, something thatmotivatedyoueachday?Talkaboutwhatitwasthatyoulearnedorenjoyedfromthatexperience. 4. If you were to look at your life, and the things you’veexperienced,whatisitthatyouwanttosharewithyourfamilythat’sgoing to be handeddown for the next generation?Write down acouple points of wisdom you’ve learned over your life for yourfamily. Longsaystakingtimeforeachother,be itover longdistancecalls,letters,orfacetofaceconversations,letsyourfamilyknowtheyare your priority. “Older people that are engaged in their familiesand are still thriving, those are older peoplewe call inspirations,”saysLong.“Theyarementorsthatmodelthecorebelief thatfamilymatters,wisdommattersandheritagematters.”

LoriLong,BrandenHackett,HermanHackett&SteveHackett

JanetKendall,IrettaTerrel&MikeWeatherford



STAYINGSAFE.

“Youthisthegiftof nature,butageisaworkof art.”- Stanislaw Jerzy Lec

Anumberof blessingscomewithage.Thejoysof grandchildren,the “senior” discount, retirement and a wisdom that comes fromlivingmultipledecades.Agingcanoftenbeaverypositivething,if onlythereweren’tchallengesforthephysicalbody!Howeverhereareprecautionsandtipstohelpyoustaysafeandinjuryfree,asyougrowolder. Each year one in every three adults age 65 and older suffersa fall, according to the National Safety Council. The NSC alsofoundthattheriskof fallingincreasesexponentiallyat75yearsoldandagainatage80andolder.Someof theseaccidentscanleadtoratherseriousinjuries.Greenbrier’sSkilledRehabilitationUnitseesanumberof individualsreferredbydoctorsandhospitalsaftersurgery

fromfractures.Theirgoalistoworkwiththeminbothphysicalandoccupational therapy to help them get back on their feet. In fact,Greenbrier’sSkilledRehabUnit is theonlyfree-standingfacility inEnid with a full-time physical therapy director since the unit wasbuilt.DirectorDanBurchelhasbeenwithGreenbrierformorethan15yearsnow.Hefindsjoyinwatchingpatientscomein,workhard,and leavewithanewsetof skills tohelp themstaysafeathome.Patientswhomayhavesuffereda fall,havegottensick, justhadasurgeryoramedicalissuearisecanbeadmittedintotheGreenbrierSkilledRehabUnitandbegintheirjourneytorecovery.“Onethingthatsetsusapartiswehaveanin-housededicatedtherapyteam.We’rethereeveryday,” saysBurchel.Bobbie JoSutton,whohasworked

asanurseatGreenbrierVillageinEnidfortwentyyearsandiscurrentlythedirectorof Greenbrier’sSkilledUnit, adds“ourgoal istodo rehab,physical, occupationalor evenspeechtherapyandaneducationprogramtogetpatientstotheirhighestfunctioningself.We then send themback towherever theycamefrom;whetherthat’shome,livingwiththeirchildren,oratassistedliving.” Greenbrier Skilled Rehabilitation Unitalso works with their clients to make surethey’re not only physically able to return

home,butareemotionallyandmentallystableaswell.Beforetheyreturnhomeemployeesof theSkilledUnitwilloftendoahomevisitto “proof ” thepatient’s home andmake itas safe an environment as possible. Suttonsaysyoudon’thavetowaitforan injurytodo the same. “Youwant tomake sure thatfallpreventativemeasuresandall thesafetythings are in place,” explains Sutton. “Alsocheckonyourelderlylovedonesregularlytoensure they’re taking theirmedication, thatthey’reabletocook,andthatthey’rememory

iso.k.” Thefirststepistoalwaysconsultyourdoctor. At Greenbrier Village, Dr. TomSnyder serves as theMedical Director andvisitswithpatientsandtheirfamiliesregularly.Discuss with your doctor your concernsaboutfalling,orothersafetyissuesyoumayhaveathome.Thegoal formanyelderly istostayasindependentaspossibleforaslongaspossibleandoftenamedicalprovidercanhelpyoudothat.Dr.SnyderencouragestheclienteleatGreenbriertopartakeinphysical

URteamaroundtable/withcharts,etc

activityandexercise,whetherit’saclassorjustwalkingoutside.Snydersites thatdementia isoneof themainculpritsof falls,yetstudiesshowthatphysicalactivitymayreducedementiabyasmuchas50%.Alsoexercising,likewalking,orlightworkoutsmayhelpslowbonelossfromosteoporosis.Strongboneswon’tfractureaseasilyif youtakeatumble. Burchel explains that the most frequent place that fallsoccurisinbathrooms.“Wevisitourbathroomssixtoeighttimesadayormore,andseveraltimesduringthenight. Nighttimetoiletinginvolvesadecreaseinoursensesandreflexiveacuity,andofteninvolvesasenseof urgency,lowerlighting,andimproperfootwear.”Installingrailingsandpurchasingatallertoiletseatcanmaketheprocesssmootherandsafer.Infactrailingsthroughoutyourhouseisagreatwaytopreventaccidents,especiallyalongproblem areas like stairs. Other suggestions include throwingawaythrowrugsandalwayswearingshoeswithnon-skidsoles.TheNationalSafetyCounciladvocateshavingyourvisiontestedatleastonceayearandgettingwalkersorcanesproperlysizedbyprofessionals. AccordingtotheCentersforDiseaseControlmanypeoplewhofall,evenif theyarenotinjured,developafearof falling.Thisfearmaycausethemtolimittheiractivities,whichleadstoreducedmobility and a loss of physical fitness,which in turnincreases their actual risk of falling. Burchel agrees, adding,“when we begin to feel unsafe with walking, we reduce ourmobilityoutsideourhomes.Whenwestartreducingourdailywalkingandotheractivities,webeginlosingstrength,endurance,and vestibular activation.” He goes on to say at Greenbrierthrough rehabilitation the professionals work to challenge aperson’sbalancebyhavingthemwalk,maneuverandtransitionin many different directions, speeds, surfaces and with leastsupportnecessary. Sutton says there are things you can do now if you areconcernedaboutyouraginglovedones.Checkinwithadoctortomake sure older patients are taking theirmedicine and aredoingwelllivingindependently.Haveaclosefriendstopinforavisit.OftenhavingapatientgointotheSkilledRehabilitationUnitatGreenbriercanprovideawakeupcallforfamiliesthattheymayneedmoreassistanceathome,butthatdoesn’talwaysmeantheyhavetobetakenoutof theirhome.Howeverwhenthegoal issafety,alloptions, includingon-campusapartments,likeGreenbrier’sBurgundyApartments,orevenlong-termcarefacilitiescanbethemostappropriate&bestoptions. Thereareways tomakenavigating theolder yearsof lifeeasier.Aging isabeautiful thing.Itmarks thepassageof timeandmemoriesof life.Takethesteps…thecarefulsteps…nowtoensureyouenjoytheblessingsinyourolderyears.

DIAGRAM:Safety Measures in the Bathroom:1.Atallertoiletforeasierrisinganddescent.2.Securedrailingsbesidesthetoiletorbedsidecommodeplaced overthetoilet;offertactileparametersandgivelateralsupport holdsfortransferandclothingmanagement.3.Removethrowrugs.4.Useanight-light.5.Useatransfertubbenchandhand-heldshowernozzle.6.Useanadjustableheightshowerchairwithbackandahand- heldshowernozzleandgrabbars.7.Keepyourcellphoneorcordlessphonenearbyduringbathing

Signs that you may need to begin use an assistive device:1.Youfindyourself holdingontofurniturewhenyouwalk throughthehouse.2.Youshuffleyourfeetwhenyouwalk.3.Youfreezeupwhenyouhavetostepupordownastairorcurb.4.Useof ashoppingcartmakesyoufeelmoresecure.5.Youhavefallenatleasttwiceinthelast3months.

BobbiJo,Nurse,AnnaMarieinBJoffice



FRESHLOOKATSENIORCOMMUNITIES

“Homeiswheretheheartis.”- Pliny the Elder

Senior living has come a long way from the poorhouses of old.Goneistheinstitutionalizedfeel,replacedinsteadwithoptionsgeared to provide whatever it is themillions of aging Americansdesire. Options that can free loved ones from the obligations,stressors and isolation of growing old at home, instead providinganopportunitytolivelifetoitsfullest.Inthisarticlewetakeafreshlookatseniorcommunitiesandhowmuchhaschangedoverthelastseveraldecades. Thoughseniorshavesoughtorneededassistanceforcenturies,itwasn’tuntilthe1980’sthattheU.S.governmentinstitutedreformsandregulatedthecareprovided.Alsointhe80’stheemergenceof

seniorcommunitieshitthemarket.Seniorapartments,homehealthcare,andassistedlivingfacilitiesbeganprovidingotheroptionsforseniorsneedingormerelywantingalittlehelptogetthroughdaytodayliving. Notonlydidseniorfacilitiesimproveoverthelastsixtyyearsbutthelifeexpectancyof Americansincreasedbymorethanadecadeaswell.“Asagingpopulationsgrewandaginggenerationslivedlongertheconsumerbegantodrivethemarket,”statesLoriLong,whowithherfamilyownsandoperatesGreenbrierVillagehereinEnid.Shesaysthatshiftchangedseniorcommunitiesforthebetter.Today,hereinOklahoma,programsimplementedbytheOklahoma

Health Care Authority (OHCA) ensurefacilities provide standard care. Theyalso are creating a cultural change amongsenior communities by promoting a homeenvironment where residents get to maketheir own choices. A concept GreenbrierVillage has taken and run with. “Eachapartment or roomwith a resident in it isthatperson’shomewithinthebigcommunityandthat’showit’ssetup,”explainsKayGreywho says all Greenbrier facilities employthe “home approach”. Grey serves as amarketingconsultanttoGreenbrierandhas

experience in medical management andhealthcare marketing. In fact, for over tenyears, the Homes of Greenbrier has beenteachingandtrainingothershowtotransitionintoaHomeCaresettingwiththeprogram:“WelcomeHomeOklahomaProject”. Theothermajorshiftthroughoutseniorliving facilities is the focus onmaintainingresidents’independence.Forexampleacrosseverylevelof housingofferedatGreenbrierVillage, residents make their own choicesabout what they want to eat, their dailyschedule and what activities they want or

don’t want to participate in. GreenbrierVillagehascafésoneachcampusaswellasevent and activity coordinators who oftenkeep residents busy. In return constantcommunication between residents andstaff helps Greenbrier stay cutting edge.“Open communication is important,” saysCharisse Pierce, an administrative assistantat Greenbrier Assisted Living. “We holdmeetingscalled‘Livinglifetothefullest’toplan with the residents what they want todoasfarasupcomingcelebrations,holidaysfor themonth, daily andweekly eventsor

specials. Their input and opinions makethe home full of purpose and providemeaningfullivingopportunities” Thoughseniorlivinghaschangedoverthe years its reputation hasn’t always keptup.“Seniorhomesenrichthelivesof senioradults by providing them secure, nurturingcare,” says Grey. “What’s tough today isworking to educate current seniors about

howthenewseniorhomesarenotthesameastheonestheythinkof from40or50yearsago.” Seniors today have a choice. Manydesire to hold onto their current physicalresidence yet that can come at a cost.Notonlycan theday todaychoresandupkeepbecome overwhelming, yet there’s threatsof isolation, depression and safety. For

some,movingintoaseniorcommunitymaybe the best option. “Leaving their physicalresidence called home and making a newhome at a new place where opportunitiesawaityoucanimprovebothsenior’sphysicalandemotionalhealth,”statesLong.“It’sallabout finding the most appropriate settingfor your loved one.” Long goes on to saymovingintoaseniorcommunitycanactually

beafreeingexperienceforoldergenerations.“Thefreedomcomesfrombecomingmoreindependent again, becoming more social,moresecureandhavingtocopelesswiththeenvironment and just enjoy the purpose inliving.” Greenbrier Village in Enid offersmultiplelevelsof caretoseniorswantingorneedingmoreassistanceincludingBurgundyPlace Independent Living Apartments,Greenbrier’sAssistedLiving,TheHomesof Greenbrier, the facility’snursinghome,andtheir SkilledNursing andRehab center.As

forwhich level is the right one for you oryouraginglovedone,therearemanagersateach location that can help youmake thatdecision.Greenbrierstaff encouragesyoutocomevisitor call and theywill go throughthecriteriawithyou.Longsaysit’simperativetodotheresearchandmakedecisionsnow,thencommunicate thosedecisions to lovedonesandadultchildren. GreenbrierVillagehasbeenratedafive-starfacilitybythestatethroughtheprogramFocus on Excellence. Though honored bythe rating Greenbrier says their priority

is just for every resident tobe athome. “Ihad a lady,” remembersMikeWeatherford,manager at Burgundy Place Apartments,“shewashereforaboutamonthandahalf andshestoppedmeinthehallandsaid,‘I’mhome.IfinallyfeellikeI’mathome!’That’sthegreatestthingmystaff andIcanhear.Wealwayssay‘Homeiswheretheheartis’andtowatchthathappen–that’swhyIdowhatIdo.”



THEHIGHLIGHTS

“Knowledgeispower”- Francis Bacon

Agingaffectseverypartof ourbeing.Grayhairs,wrinkles,lossof visionorhearing are all signs abody is gettingolder.However, agingaffects themind, spirit and emotionalwell-beingof aperson aswell.OverthelastseveralmonthstheGrowingThroughtheYearswithGraceserieshasaimedtohelpeducateandgiveideasonhowtoembraceaging.Today,wehighlightsomeof thekeyfindingspresented. “Once you hit puberty you’re aging. So all of us are goingthrough it, we’re just at different stages.” Lori Long’s matter of factstatement comes from years of education and experience. Long hasher Master’s in gerontology and is an active member in her family’sbusinessGreenbrierVillage.Longencouragesherresidents toemploytwostrategiestohelpthemembracetheirolderyears.Thefirstis“lifereview”,whichisrememberingthepastandtakingyourself backintimetoevents,memories,orpeopleinyourlife.Thesecondprocessiscalled

“reminiscing”.“Reminiscing”iswhenyouexpressortalkaboutformerevents,recollectionsoraccomplishments. Reminiscingisalsoanimportantmechanismtoutilizeasyoucopewith the changes that occur throughout the aging process.Every dayweareconfrontedwithproblemsordifficultiestoovercome.Althoughwecannotalwayscontrolwhathappensinlifewecancontrolhowwereacttoit.“Anormalpartof livingforallagesiscopingwithchallenges,problems,stresses;whethergoodorbad.Youhavetocopeeveryday,”explainsLong.Shegoesontosaythattheprocessesweusetohandlethese changes are called copingmechanisms. “If weunderstandwhatsomecopingmechanismsarewecanfirstidentifythemandthenlearntocontrolthem.”Severalpositiveandnegativecopingmechanismsarelistedintheboxbelow.

“Knowledge is power” – Francis Ba-con

BOX OF POSITIVE AND NEGATIVE COPING MECHANISMSNEGATIVE:Regression – dealing with people/situationsbyregressingbacktochildishbehavior

Projection – projecting your feelings ontosomeoneelse.

POSTIVEInsight–talkopenlywithaconfidant,listenerneedstofocusandreflectback,donottrytosolvetheproblem,justlisten

Faith--encouragereligiouspeopletoleanontheirfaithbysharingscripturepromisesand

otherwordsof faith.

Humor – adopt a lighthearted attitude (makesuresituationisappropriatewhenusinghumor)

Reminiscing -- expressor talk about formerevents,recollectionsoraccomplishments.

Working to employ positive coping mechanisms at everyopportunitytakestime.However,bydoingthatandrelyingonclosefriendsorfamilytohelpyouworkthroughchallengesLongsaysyouwillberewardedinyourrelationships. In important relationships remember honesty is crucial.Especiallywhencommunicatingwitholdergenerations.Inordertopromote healthy communication in her own family, Long createdsomethingshecalls

“The Agreement”:I agree to communicate honestly with you. When I offer something I truly mean it and when I accept one of your offers I do so because I want to. My actions will be genuine. I will not do or say anything out of feelings of guilt or obligation. In turn, you must be honest with me. Whether you are accepting an offer or asking for something, your responses and actions will reflect what you truly desire. We do this to honor and respect each other and our relationship.

Youcanuse“TheAgreement”whende-cidingsomethingassimpleasofferingtobuygroceriesorwhendiscussingcertainlegalis-sues likeAdvanceDirectivesandPowersof Attorney.By using “TheAgreement” in es-sentialmoments,alotcanbe resolved.“Youwillberelievedof worry,youwillberelievedof guiltandrelievedthatnooneisgoingtotake away your independence and yet you’llstill feelcomfortable relyingoneachother,”explains Long. She says in the end, beingcompletelytransparentwithoneanothercanonlymakeyoucloser. Aclosefamilyoftenhasmomentsof en-couragement,laughteranduttercraziness,yetthatcoregroupof lovedonesarethepeoplewhowillmost likelycarryour love,heritageand legacyon longafterwe leavethisearth.

Long is a firmbeliever that as you age andprogress in life, it is crucial you pass alongyourcorevaluestotheongoinggenerations.“Everyone in the family hopefully looks upto theolderpeople, theyhonor and respectthem.With that comes responsibility.That’swhywe’reneverretired.Wemightberetiredfromacareeroranorganization,but in lifewe’reneverretired.There’salwayssomethingwecanteachtoourfamily,”saysLong. In life, lessons and education can belearned, yetwisdomhas tobeearned.“Lifeismarvelous; amarvelous adventure,”mullsLong.“Weareall learningourownwisdomthatwecanthenpassdown.” Longrecognizesthatnotallfamiliesareclose.Manyfamilieshavescarsandpasthurtsthatcloudgatheringsandstrainrelationships.

Growing through the years with grace canoftenmeansofteningyourheartandforgiv-ingothersoraskingotherstoforgiveyou.“Atsomepoint,evenif theydon’taskforforgive-ness,wemustforgiveandhaveasenseof res-torationinourownlivesandinrelationships.We cannot changeother people butwe canchangeourselves,”reiteratesLong. Long encourages Greenbrier clients totakeinterestinwhat’sgoingonintheirfami-lies’ lives. Taking time for each other, be itoverlongdistancecalls,letters,orface-to-faceconversations,letsyourfamilyknowtheyareyourpriority. Another priority not to be neglectedasyougrowthrough theyearswithgrace isyourphysicalhealthandwell-being.Dr.TomSnyder, the Medical Director at Greenbrier

Village, says, “The secrets to healthy aging are all common knowl-edgenow.Goodlifehabits,themoreexercisethebetter,staysociallyandspirituallyinvolved,takecareof medicalneedsandpreventativehealth.Successfulagingdoesn’tcomeinabottle.It isnotasupple-ment.Itismoreof alifestyle.“ Dr.Snydersaystherearestepsyoucantaketoworktoprolongyourlifeandensureyouhaveabetterqualityof life.Inhisexperiencethe twogreatest struggles amongagingpopulations is isolation anddepression.Hesaysitisimperativetokeepandmaintainfriends,haveanactivesociallife,stayinvolvedinyourchurchandtrytomaintainstrong relationshipswith your children or grandchildren.Other ac-tionsthatcanmakeadifferenceincludeeatinghealthy,exercisingregu-larly,visitingthedoctortogetcheckupsaswellasgettingplentyof resteachnight.“Aginggracefullyhasmuchmoretodowithcommonsensethenithastodowithanunhealthylifestyleortrendymedicalornutritionalentities,”reiteratesSnyder.

In2011,TheDepartmentof Agriculturecreatedthe“MyPlate”campaigntopushAmericanstofilltheirplateswithvegetables,fruit,protein,grainsanddairyatmeals.“MyPlate”focusesonthingslikeconsumingwhole fruits full of fiber, picking green leafy vegetablesfilledwithantioxidants,andeatingwholegrains.Italsosuggestsyougetproteinfrombeansorlegumesaswellasmeat.Drinkingplentyof waterthroughoutthedaytoavoiddehydrationisamust. SydSmith,theDietaryConsultantatGreenbrierVillage,saysfol-lowing“MyPlate”toeatbetterwillhaveapositiveeffectonnearlyeveryaspectof yourhealth.Thoughshesaysyoucanstillhave theoccasionalindulgence,“It’sallaboutbalanceandmoderation.”Smithsayswhatyoueatandhowmuchyoueatplaysadirectrole inyourhealth.“Oh,dietiscritical,”emphasizesSmith.“Medicineisveryim-portant,allthetreatmentswedoareveryimportantbutyouhavetomaintainahealthyintakeanddiettobuildthosecellsandtissuesbackupandtomaintainahealthyfunctioninyourentirebeing.”

Eating right and exercising can alsoplay a part in avoiding seriousaccidents.Eachyearoneineverythreeadultsage65andoldersuffersafall,according to theNationalSafetyCouncil.TheNSCalsofoundthattheriskof fallingincreasesexponentiallyat75yearsoldandagainatage80 andolder.Greenbrier’s SkilledRehabilitationUnit sees a number of individualsreferredbydoctorsandhospitalsaftersurgeryfromfracturesthatcanresultfromabadtumble.Theirgoalistoworkwiththeminbothphysicalandoccupationaltherapytohelpthemgetbackontheirfeet.Infact,Greenbrier’s SkilledRehabUnit is theonly free standing facility inEnidwithafulltimephysicaltherapydirectorsincetheunitwasbuilt. Director Dan Burchel explains that the most frequent place fallsoccur isbathrooms.Installingrailings inthebathroomandpurchasingatallertoiletseatcanmaketheprocesssmootherandsafer.Infactrailingsthroughoutyourhouseisagreatwaytopreventaccidents,especiallyalongproblemareaslikestairs.Othersuggestionsincludethrowingawaythrowrugsandalwayswearing shoeswithnon-skid soles.TheNationalSafetyCounciladvocateshavingyourvisiontestedatleastonceayearandgettingwalkersorcanesproperlysizedbyprofessionals. Thereare thingsyoucandonow if youareconcernedaboutyouraginglovedones.Checkinwithadoctortomakesureolderpatientsaretakingtheirmedicineandaredoingwell living independently.Therecanalsocomeatimewhenyouneedtodiscussif themostappropriateoptionmaybetomoveintoaseniorlivingfacility.

Theysay,“home iswhere theheart is”andasyouarefacedwith decidingwhere your “heart” belongs, remember to educateyourself onyouroptions.Seniorlivinghascomealongwayfromthepoorhousesof old.Goneistheinstitutionalizedfeelreplacedinsteadwithoptionsgearedtoprovidewhateveritisthemillionsof agingAmericansdesire:Optionsthatcanfreelovedonesfromtheobligations,stressorsandisolationof growingoldathome. HereinOklahoma,programsimplementedbytheOklahomaHealthCareAuthority(OHCA)ensurefacilitiesprovidestandardcare. They also are creating a cultural change among seniorcommunitiesbypromotingahomeenvironmentwhere residentsget tomake theirownchoices, a conceptGreenbrierVillagehastakenandrunwith.“Eachapartmentorroomwitharesidentinitisthatperson’shomewithinthebigcommunityandthat’showit’ssetup,”explainsKayGreywhosaysallGreenbrierfacilitiesemploythe “home approach”. Grey serves as a marketing consultantto Greenbrier and has experience in medical management andhealthcare marketing. In fact, for over ten years, the Homes of Greenbrierhasbeenteachingandtrainingothershowtotransitioninto a Home Care setting with the program: “Welcome HomeOklahomaProject”.Theothermajorshiftthroughoutseniorlivingfacilities isthefocusonmaintainingresidents’ independence.Forexampleacrosseverylevelof housingofferedatGreenbrierVillageresidents make their own choices about what they want to eat,theirdailyscheduleandwhatactivitiestheywantordon’twanttoparticipatein. Seniors todayhave a choice.Manydesire toholdonto theircurrent physical residence yet that can come at a cost.Not onlycantheday-to-daychoresandupkeepbecomeoverwhelmingthereare threatsof isolation,depressionandsafety.Forsome,movinginto a senior communitymay be the best option. “Leaving theirphysicalresidencecalledhomeandmakinganewhomeatanewplacewhereopportunitiesawaityoucanimproveboththesenior’sphysicalandemotionalhealth,”statesLong.“It’sallaboutfindingthemost appropriate setting for your loved one.”Long goes onto saymoving into a senior community can actuallybe a freeingexperience for older generations. “The freedom comes frombecomingmore independent again, becomingmore social,moresecureandhavingtocopelesswiththeenvironmentandjustenjoythepurposeinliving.” Growingolderisaprocess,alongprocess.Modernmedicinemeanstheaveragelifespanisincreasingintothelateseventies.LongencourageseveryonetousetheinformationpresentedthroughouttheGrowingThroughtheYearswithGraceseriestoeducateandempower yourself on the choices you and your lovedoneshaveasyouage.“It’s all abouthelpingyouenrichyour livesandyourrelationships,”concludesLong.

DIAGRAM:Safety Measures in the Bathroom:1.Atallertoiletforeasierrisinganddescent. 2.Securedrailingsbesidesthetoiletorbedsidecommode placedoverthetoilet;offertactileparametersandgive lateralsupportholdsfortransferandclothingmanagement.3.Removethrowrugs. 4.Useanight-light. 5.Useatransfertubbenchandhandheldshowernozzle. 6.Useanadjustableheightshowerchairwithbackanda handheldshowernozzleandgrabbars. 7.Keepyourcellphoneorcordlessphonenearbyduring bathingSigns that you may need to begin to use an assistive device:1.Youfindyourself holdingontofurniturewhenyouwalk throughthehouse.2.Youshuffleyourfeetwhenyouwalk.3.Youfreezeupwhenyouhavetostepupordownastair orcurb.4.Useof ashoppingcartmakesyoufeelmoresecure.5.Youhavefallenatleasttwiceinthelast3months.

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WELCOME HOME VETERANS

Greenbrier offers discounted rates to veterans

attheirindependentlivinglocations(Burgundy

PlaceandAssistedLiving).Veteran’swhoneed

24hourcareno longerhaveto leavetheEnid

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andishometomanyVeterans.

Burgundy Place: “Ididn’thavetomakefriends, I just walkedinto Burgundy andhad them. Everyoneis so friendly andnice.”

The Homes of Greenbrier:

“WhenIfirstcamehereI

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Assisted Living:

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Secure Senior Apartment Living- One & two bedroom apartments available- 24 hour security- All bills paid including cable tv- Guest apartment for out of town company- Exercise room and planned activities- Full service dining & free transportation- Lifeline emergency response system- Weekly housekeeping & laundry service- Discount for Veterans

Elegant and Affordable- 54 private rooms (kitchenette, living area, bedroom and private bath)- Full time Registered Nurse- Menu style dining in our Four Seasons Cafe’- No endowment / No deposit- Social activities and therapy services- Full housekeeping & laundry service- Free transportation- Discount for Veterans

Finally a Home, Not Your Typical Nursing Home- The first Welcome Home model in Oklahoma, which transforms the institutional style of nursing home care to a true home setting- Enid’s only 5 star Nursing Home as rated by the Oklahoma Health Care Authority’s Focus on Excellence Program- Only contracted facility with VA in Northwest Oklahoma- Affordable private & semi-private rooms- Cafe style dining in the Rose Garden Cafe’

A Home Offering Memory Support Services- Small home setting where routines are simple & familiar- My Best Friends Approach to Alzheimer’s & Dementia Care- 24 hour supervision- Secured entrances and exists- Daily enrichment activities- Private dining room serving three meals per day- Full housekeeping & laundry service

A Temporary Stay with Lasting Results- Personalized care designed by staff physician, nursing and therapy personnel- All private rooms in our 27,000 sq. foot facility- Our patients experience 85% return to their original home- Admission 24 hours / 7 days a week- On-site physician clinic, lab & pharmacy- Independent from long term care services

Burgundy Place

1600 W. Willow - Enid - 580-233-8993

1217 E. Garriott - Enid - 580-233-1331

1119 E. Garriott - Enid - 580-233-0121

1119 E. Garriott - Enid - 580-233-0121

715 S. 10th - Enid, - 580-242-5104

Assisted Living

Rogers Home

Skilled Nursing & Rehabilitation

Gre

enbr

ier

Pro

pert

ies

The Homes of Greenbrier do not discriminate against any person on the basis of race, color, national origin, disability, or age in admission, treatment or participation in it programs, services and activities, or in employment. For more information about this policy, contact: 800-722-0353 (Voice/TTY).

Documents

Greenbrier Village 2014