Story and photo by Van Mitchell. Staff Writer

The Commons on Classen is a $4.2 million senior living apartment complex project in the heart of Oklahoma City’s Midtown District located at 1320 Classen Drive that provides nearly 50 units of affordable housing to seniors in an amenity-rich environment.
This award-winning, energy efficient complex is for those that are 62 years of age and older. It was built at the former headquarters of Neighborhood Housing Services of Oklahoma.
“We’re affordable quality housing for seniors with amenities,” said Shannon Hitchcock, manager of the Commons on Classen. “This is a beautiful property. It’s a well-kept property. It’s a well-managed property.”
The Commons on Classen offers efficiencies, 1- and 2-bedroom apartment homes which come equipped with washer and dryer, microwave, stove/oven, garbage disposal, refrigerator and dishwasher.
“You can get a one-bedroom apartment for $675 a month plus electric, which is pretty cheap in Midtown,” Hitchcock said.
The property includes a splash pad, tot lot and patio grills, library, fitness facility, computer lab, and community room. Lawn care and maintenance are also included.
Hitchcock said the Commons on Classen currently has several apartment homes available for rent.
“We typically have a very little turnover here,” she said. “They (residents) usually stay until they have to go where they need more care which is what’s happened here this last year.”
Hitchcock said applicants must pass a background check and credit history check.
“We take pride in ensuring our tenants safety and security in the fact that we do background screenings and provide the safest environment possible,” she said.
Hitchcock said applicants must also qualify financially.
“We are affordable housing geared toward different income levels,” she said.
Hitchcock said the property’s amenities including the library are good selling points to renters.
“A lot of our residents like to just consider this an extension of their own home,” she said. “They like to come up here in the mornings and have coffee, read a book, read the paper. It’s just a nice place to come if you want to get outside of your apartment. It’s just a very pleasant place to be.”
Hitchcock said the Commons on Classen also hosts a variety of community events for residents.
“Sometimes I have a home health person that will come in and host bingo, or an ice cream social, and then talk about their services. Sometimes we’ll just do a luncheon,” she said. “We’ve had people come in and host crafting events before, and we’ve had community painting activities.”
Hitchcock said the community events are a hit with residents.
“They love it,” she said. “They love our social events. Especially when we do bingo with prizes and giveaways. They love it. They do utilize the community room quite a bit for stuff with their families like birthday parties.”
Hitchcock said the Commons on Classen location is popular due to its proximity to amenities.
“Here in Midtown, we are close to restaurants, and shopping,” she said. “A lot of my seniors don’t drive, and they can walk. There are all kinds of things here that they can do. We get a lot of young seniors that like to go do stuff. We’re close to public transportation and the trolley.”
Hitchcock said helping seniors find a home is rewarding.
“I like being able to help someone find their final home,” she said. “I like knowing that they’re safe and they’re comfortable and have a nice place to live.”
In a YouTube video, Michael Davis, a resident, said he learned about the Commons on Classen through his VA case manager.
“I was at the Serenity (Outreach Recovery) under the homeless program,” he said. “My caseworker at the VA hospital told me about this place. It was new. I went from seven years of psychological behavior to peace. My life has gotten straightened out quite a bit.”
Davis said his apartment is handicapped-accessible.
“It’s easy for me to cook and wash,” he said. “The location is convenient for me. I can ride my scooter to the VA hospital. This scooter’s rated at going 70 miles at 15 miles an hour, so I pretty much go wherever I want to.”
Davis said after losing his right leg, he became dependent on others. He said the Commons on Classen gave him his independence back.
“When they cut my leg off, it stopped everything,” he said. “I had to become dependent upon people. It’s been hard on me. I’ve always taken care of myself, and I’m still taking care of myself, and I think this facility has allowed me to be able to do that.”

For more information about Commons on Classen visit
www.nhsokla.org/apartments For leasing information, contact Shannon Hitchcock at (405) 601-6819.

story and photo by Vickie Jenkins, Staff Writer

Located at 11501 N. Rockwell, OKC, Healthy Living OKC is a wellness center specifically designed for adults over 50. These centers offer a variety of programs and services that cater to the physical, mental and social aspects of aging. While the size of these centers can vary, most provide a combination of fitness classes, educational workshops, and social activities. The primary goal is to help seniors maintain or improve their health and independence, reduce the risk of chronic diseases and promote healthy aging by creating a supportive environment. The OKC Healthy Living Center empowers older adults to take charge of their health and well being. Below is information provided by Healthy Living Center OKC.
Healthy Living OKC for seniors is all about a balanced approach that includes walking, running and exercising to help maintain mobility, strength and improve circulation. Their center offers state of the-art exercise equipment with several personal trainers available to assist you. If you enjoy water activities, consider joining their water aerobics class. Nutrition also plays a crucial role in everyday living. Following a healthy diet can manage weight and reduce the risk of chronic diseases like diabetes and heart disease.
Mental stimulation is just as important and can be achieved by engaging in activities like reading, solving puzzles, socializing or learning new skills to keep the mind sharp. Emotional well-being is also fostered through strong social connections with family, friends and the community, providing support, reducing feelings of loneliness, and enhancing life satisfaction. By focusing on these aspects, seniors can maintain a high quality of life and enjoy their golden years with vitality and fulfillment.
Are you looking to explore your artistic side or learn something new? They offer a variety of classes, including painting and drawing, pottery, fused glass, quilling, card making, woodworking, scrapbooking, wire and bead art, and floral arrangement. If you prefer performing arts, why not try some line dancing or Zumba? For those interested in mindfulness and fitness, they offer Yoga and Palates. Musically inclined individuals can join their guitar jam sessions or learn to play the ukulele, violin and more.
If you are interested in clubs and hobbies, they have options for everyone. Join their technology club, go birdwatching, participate in field trips or engage in sewing or cooking classes. In the mood for a movie? ‘Movie-goers’ is your way to go. Like flowers and plants? Learn all about them in their garden club. Want an adventure? Try their travel club, traveling to far away places. For those passionate about writing, they offer workshops that cover grammar, punctuation and spelling. If reading is your passion, consider joining their book clubs. Need a little support? They offer support groups for Alzheimer’s support, Grief Share, and Parkinson’s support to help manage life’s challenges. For those with a heart for giving back, you can volunteer to make angel gowns for Children’s Hospital, weave mats for the homeless, or create hats for cancer patients.
If you’re looking for a bit of action, they have bike riding groups that meet weekly. Or do you prefer ping-pong, pickleball, tai chi, kick-boxing or various games like bridge, chess, dominoes and bunco? If you enjoy crafting, they offer quilting, crocheting, knitting and embroidery classes. There’s something for everyone to enjoy and stay engaged.
Senior wellness centers promote the health, happiness ands well-being of older adults. These centers offer a safe and supportive environment where seniors can engage in a wide range of activities designed to enhance their physical, mental and emotional health. From fitness classes and arts and crafts to social gatherings and educational workshops, there is something for everyone to enjoy. As their population continues to age, the demand for these centers is likely to grow, making them an essential part of the healthcare and social support network for older adults. By providing opportunities for physical exercise, mental stimulation and social interaction, senior wellness centers help to reduce the risk of chronic diseases, combat feelings of isolation and improve the quality of life for seniors. They empower older adults to take charge of their health and well being, fostering a sense of independence and vitality. They invite you to join us in improving your physical, social, recreational, and educational well-being. As a nonprofit organization, they are dedicated to promoting health and fitness while ensuring that their members have fun and find fulfillment in their golden years. Together, they can create a vibrant, supportive community where seniors thrive and enjoy life to the fullest.
For more information, visit www.healthylivingokc.com.

By Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner Glen Mulready

Many families have experienced the loss of a loved one only to discover later that a life insurance policy existed tucked away in old files, forgotten about or just unknown to the beneficiaries. Life insurance provides a financial lifeline during those most difficult times, but beneficiaries can miss out on the support they need when benefits go unclaimed. The Life Insurance Policy Locator (LIPL) can help in these situations. The Oklahoma Insurance Department (OID) has helped to connect thousands of Oklahomans with millions in unclaimed life insurance policy benefits since we launched this transformative tool in 2016. I want to share more about the LIPL and how it can help you.
Before we discuss using the tool, I want to stress the importance of life insurance in your financial planning. It may seem difficult to address or discuss, but it can help your loved ones in case something unforeseen happens to you. When to purchase, what kind of policy to buy, and how much in benefits will depend on you and your situation. You will want to consider how many people rely on you financially and your financial obligations to help you answer those questions. You can find more information about life insurance shopping at www.oid.ok.gov/life.
So, how does the LIPL work? It’s easy, free and secure. First, visit www.oid.ok.gov/LIPL and click “Get Started.” Next, you will submit your request, which requires information from the deceased’s death certificate, such as the Social Security number, legal name, date of birth, date of death and the decedent’s veteran status. You will also need to indicate your relationship to the deceased. Finally, you will click the submit button and receive a confirmation email. If a policy is found and you are the beneficiary, the life insurance or annuity company will contact you directly.
The success of the LIPL speaks for itself. Since the tool’s launch in 2016, OID has helped to connect over 8,000 Oklahomans with over $161 million in unclaimed life insurance policy benefits, with almost 1,500 claiming over $32 million this year alone. The LIPL has significantly impacted the lives of many, and it can do the same for you.
Life insurance can be a lifeline to loved ones in a time of loss. However, many aren’t aware that they may be the beneficiary of a life insurance policy or an annuity. If you believe you are a beneficiary, use the free LIPL tool to find out today. If you have any questions about life insurance or need assistance with any other insurance-related questions, please call OID at 800-522-0071 or visit www.oid.ok.gov.

Stay Active and Engaged: Senior Events at the Metropolitan Library System

The new year is a perfect time to try something new, stay active and connect with others. From fitness classes to creative workshops, there’s something for everyone to enjoy at the library. This January, the Metropolitan Library System offers endless opportunities for fitness, crafting and personal growth. You’re sure to find something that inspires you. Visit metrolibrary.org for more details and a full calendar of events.

Focus on Wellness: Maintaining good health is key to living your best life and the library has you covered with a variety of wellness programs.
Total Wellness Classes: Presented by the Oklahoma City-County Health Department, these interactive sessions help prevent diabetes and heart disease through practical tips on weight loss, healthy eating and exercise. • Almonte Library: Tuesdays at 10 a.m. – Jan. 14, 21, 28
Tai Chi: This gentle exercise enhances balance and flexibility, perfect for all fitness levels. Classes are offered at several locations: • Southern Oaks Library: Beginner classes at 9 a.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays; Intermediate classes at 10:15 a.m. – Jan. 7, 9, 16, 21, 23, 28, 30 • Midwest City Library: Tuesdays and Thursdays at 11 a.m. – Jan. 9, 14, 16, 21, 23, 28, 30
Yoga: Relax and rejuvenate with yoga sessions tailored for all levels. • Choctaw Library: Fridays at 10:15 a.m. – Jan. 3, 10, 17, 24, 31 • Del City Library: Sunset Yoga, twice a month at 6:30 p.m. – Jan. 14, 28 • Edmond Library: Yoga and Meditation, Fridays at 3 p.m. – Jan. 5, 12, 19, 26
Sound Bath: Immerse yourself in a relaxing sound bath experience led by Anna and Mark from MARKANNA Wellness. • Ralph Ellison Library: Jan. 21 at 6:30 p.m. • Edmond Library: Feb. 23 at 3 p.m.
Learn and Create: The start of a new year is the perfect time to explore a hobby or learn a new skill.
Sourdough Basics: Learn the art of sourdough baking, complete with a starter kit to take home. • Belle Isle Library: Jan. 4 at 10 a.m.
Beginner Line Dancing: Get moving and have fun learning the basics of line dancing. • Southern Oaks Library: Mondays at 1 p.m. – Jan. 8, 15, 22, 29
Knitting and Fiber Arts: Whether you’re new to knitting or a seasoned crafter, join these community-focused groups: • Downtown Crochet and Knit Club: Downtown Library, Jan. 4 at 2 p.m. • Fiber Arts Club: Southern Oaks Library, Jan. 7 and 21 at 1:30 p.m. • Jones Library: Jan. 7 and 21 at 6 p.m. • Fiber Arts Group: Bethany Library, Jan. 15 at 1:30 p.m. • Community Fiber Arts Group: Edmond Library, Jan. 18 at 9:30 a.m. • Crochet Night Meetup: Capitol Hill Library, Jan. 23 at 6:30 p.m.
Watercolor Painting: Local artist Jim Pourtorkan leads this workshop, perfect for beginners. • Warr Acres Library: Jan. 25 at 10 a.m.
Clothed Figure Drawing: Sharpen your artistic skills in this life drawing session with a live model. • Belle Isle Library: Jan. 28 and Feb. 25 at 6:30 p.m

Dear Savvy Senior, I’ve heard that excessive earwax can cause serious health problems in elderly seniors. What can you tell me about this? Caregiving Daughter

Dear Caregiving,
It’s true! Excessive amounts of earwax can indeed cause problems in elderly seniors including hearing loss or ringing in your ears. Some people experience vertigo, which increases the risk of falling. And there’s also a correlation between hearing loss and cognitive decline and depression.
Earwax – which is not really wax at all, but a substance called cerumen that binds with dirt, dust and debris – is normally produced by the body as a way to clean and protect the ears. In most people, the self-cleaning process works fine. But in others, including more than 30 percent of elderly people, the wax collects to the point where it can completely block or impact the ear canal.
Those that are most affected are elderly seniors, especially those living in nursing homes or assisted living centers that provide substandard hygiene. And those highest at risk are hearing-aid users because the devices push wax down into the canal.
Earwax Removal
Usually, earwax moves up and out on its own so the best way to control it is to leave it alone. But that advice can backfire for those who accumulate excessive amounts of earwax.
The symptoms of an earwax problem can include an earache, a feeling of fullness in the ear, hearing loss, tinnitus, dizziness, an ear infection, ear itchiness, or cough due to pressure from the blockage stimulating a nerve in the ear.
If you or your elderly loved one’s experience any of these symptoms, try using a softening agent to help the wax leave the ear or to remove it more easily.
If you prefer the natural route, try baby oil or mineral oil. Using an eyedropper, apply a drop or two into your ear, tilting your head so that the opening of the ear is pointing up toward the ceiling. Stay in that position for a minute or two to let the fluid flow down to the waxy buildup. Then tilt your head in the opposite direction to let the fluid and wax drain.
Or try an over-the-counter earwax removal solution or kit, which are sold in most pharmacies. Solutions may contain oil or hydrogen peroxide, and some kits include a bulb syringe that you squeeze to flush your ear with warm water, if needed.
You may need to repeat this wax-softening and irrigation procedure several times before getting rid of the excess earwax. If, however, the symptoms don’t improve after a few treatments, you need to see an audiologist or ear, nose and throat (ENT) doctor to have the wax removed.
Earwax removal is one of the most common ENT procedures performed. They have a variety of tools that can remove hard, stubborn earwax.
It might be tempting to poke a cotton swab, bobby pin, pencil or finger into your ear to get the gunk out, but don’t go digging. Yes, it’ll remove some of the wax, but it may also push the rest deeper into the ear canal and increase your risk of injuring your eardrum and making the problem worse.
Send your senior questions to: Savvy Senior, P.O. Box 5443, Norman, OK 73070, or visit www.SavvySenior.org. Jim Miller is a contributor to the NBC Today show and author of “The Savvy Senior” book.

Betty Mattison

(Right) 100 years old. Betty Mattison of Tulsa, born December 27, 1924, was the oldest of eight siblings who were separated early in life, some placed in local homes. Betty later reunited them, and they now hold family reunions. Since retiring in 1987, she has delivered for Meals on Wheels and enjoys sewing, knitting, and crocheting.

Betty Edmondson

(Left) 100 years old. Betty Lou Edmondson, a resident of Bethany, has commemorated her 100th birthday, having led a fulfilling life since retiring as a jewelry clerk in 1989, with a rich blend of homemaking, church involvement, hobbies such as sewing, walking, and fishing, and exploring various travel destinations while prioritizing time with loved ones. ”Betty’s words of wisdom: “Enjoy the outdoors and fresh air…walk, walk, walk!”

Mary Thomas

(Right) 100 years old. Mary Rose (Hull) Thomas of Stillwater was born in Missouri on December 16, 1924. As a devoted Presbyterian, she worked as a secretary until her retirement at age 65. Her interests included golf, basketball, and volunteering, and she cherished time spent with loved ones. Mary Rose traveled extensively with her husband and emphasized the importance of respecting one’s parents.

Dottie Pennington

(Right) 110 years old. Lessie Benningfield Randle was born, beginning an extraordinary 110-year journey of faith, love, and service, celebrated with family and friends in Tulsa. As a dedicated caregiver, she made a difference until retiring in 1981. She delighted in cooking, reading, and singing hymns, fueled by her unwavering faith. Asked about her remarkable longevity, she credited God’s blessings and thoughtful living. Lessie’s heartfelt guidance is: ‘Follow God, honor your parents, and live with integrity.

Oklahoma County
Dr. William L. and Susie Price Haywood Estate
7100 N. Sooner Rd., Oklahoma City
The Dr. William L. and Susie Price Haywood Estate in Oklahoma City was constructed c. 1930 in the Late 19th and Early 20th Century Classical Revival style and is significant at the local level for its association with Dr. William Haywood, his wife Susie Price Haywood, and their roles associated with the Black community during segregation. Dr. Haywood was a prominent physician for the Black community as early as 1910 when he became the chief African American health officer of Oklahoma County. In the 1920s, he established the Utopia Hospital, which is believed to be the first African American hospital west of the Mississippi. In the 1950s, Haywood became director and chief-of-staff at Oklahoma University Hospital. Mrs. Haywood, a cum laude graduate of Langston University, established herself as the first principal for the summer school for Negro children and eventually as a summer faculty member at Langston as an English teacher and assistant registrar. Mrs. Haywood also published textbooks for students to use, covering topics traditional books did not. The Haywood Estate is listed in the National Register for the couple’s significant role in the African American community in Oklahoma City.
Listing in the National Register of Historic Places is an honorific designation that provides recognition, limited protection and, in some cases, financial incentives for these important properties. The SHPO identifies, evaluates and nominates properties for this special designation.
The State Historic Preservation Office is a division of the Oklahoma Historical Society. The mission of the Oklahoma Historical Society is to collect, preserve and share the history and culture of the state of Oklahoma and its people. Founded in 1893 by members of the Territorial Press Association, the OHS maintains museums, historic sites and affiliates across the state. Through its research archives, exhibits, educational programs and publications the OHS chronicles the rich history of Oklahoma. For more information about the OHS, please visit www.okhistory.org.

By Marise Boehs

It was my 76th birthday and I wanted a challenge. Having never ridden a mountain bike trail, I decided to try my luck on one. l found a local Facebook riders group and asked for an easy beginner trail recommendation. Off I went to ride it.

 It did not take me long to realize the gulleys and tree roots and sharp turns where not my cup of tea. I abandoned it for Lake Stanley Draper Trail.

 It was a Tuesday, so the traffic at the lake was minimal. Only a handful of bikers and walkers were on the trail. I had an excellent 10 mile ride to the back side of the lake and back across the top of the dam.

 I would certainly recommend this trail, although, be prepared for hills. Long hills. I try to avoid the longest, hardest hills. If you start on the dam side of the trail (riding south from the marina), the hills are not that bad and you can get to the back side of the lake in about 5 miles. A nice picnic table awaits and peace and quiet. Take a break. Hydrate and have a snack. 

 Riding back across the dam is flat and has a great view of the lake on your right. I would not recommend this on the weekend though because of traffic across the dam. It’s a public road, not part of the trail.

Lake Stanley Draper Trail
Lake Draper Trail is a 14-mile loop trail located near Tinker Air Force Base. It is a car-free paved trail that offers the chance to see wildlife and some beautiful native Oklahoma wildflowers, grasses and cedars.
 And it has hills. Do not confuse this with a rail trail. The terrain can be a challenge.
 The Lake Draper Marina is located at the end of SE 104th Street and provides abundant parking and easy access to the trail. The marina also has a concession building with restroom facilities. A playground is close by as well as picnic tables and benches.

located at 200 S Academy Road. Mercy caregivers and a chaplain gathered to celebrate the program’s start and bless it with prayers of thanksgiving.
“Anxiety and depression feel isolating to anyone, but often especially to seniors. But these are very common problems and we don’t want our neighbors to suffer alone,” said hospital Administrator Bobby Stitt. “We want everyone to know they can refer themselves, and family and friends can refer their loved ones, too.”
About Senior Life Solutions
Senior Life Solutions is an intensive outpatient group therapy program for people who are typically age 65 and older with age-related health concerns, difficult life events, transitions to new phases of life and more.
Senior Life Solutions is for people who may be experiencing:
• A traumatic event
• Anxiety
• Changes in appetite
• Depression
• Difficulty sleeping
• Feelings of sadness or grief lasting more than two weeks
• Feelings of worthlessness or hopelessness
• Loss of a close family member or spouse
• Loss of energy
• Loss of interest in favorite activities
Senior Life Solutions services offered include:
• A confidential, comprehensive assessment
• Individual, group and family therapy
• Medication education and management
• Aftercare planning
While most services are offered in a group setting, each person will also receive individual counseling. Mercy engages and supports participants in the program to make sure their unique needs are being met.
Staff includes a board-certified psychiatrist, licensed therapists, a registered nurse and other caregivers dedicated to the mental health care of older adults in the Logan County community.
Family members, physicians or other health care professionals can make a referral to the program.
For more information, call 405-282-6700 or visit the Mercy Hospital Logan County webpage on www.mercy.net.

This winter, the Metropolitan Library System invites adults to embrace the joys of reading with the return of the beloved Book Bingo Winter Reading Challenge. Running from Jan. 1 through Feb. 28, this annual program encourages participants to explore unique reading categories, connect with their community and win exciting prizes.
Winter Reading isn’t just about books-it’s a celebration of all types of reading. Whether you prefer audiobooks, e-books, magazines, bedtime stories, or physical books, all formats count toward completing the challenge. The bingo card has fun ideas like “a book with a number in the title” or “a book set in the winter” to inspire you.
“All kinds of reading count for this challenge,” said Emily Williams, Teen Services Manager. “Audiobooks provide just as much vocabulary and reading comprehension as the paper versions. E-books are a convenient way to carry dozens of books at once, plus the library’s downloadable collection is just a Wi-Fi signal away.”
Participants can look forward to the reveal of this year’s collectible campfire mug design, a coveted tradition among Winter Reading fans. Beyond the prizes, the program highlights the benefits of reading, such as reducing stress, improving sleep and making daily activities more enjoyable. “Reading can help us process our experiences, receive reinforcement for our feelings or provide a distraction from everyday stressors,” Williams added.
How to Participate in Winter Reading Book Bingo:
1. Get Your Card: Pick up a bingo card at any Metro Library location or download one at www.metrolibrary.org/winterreading.
2. Track Your Progress: Fill in your card by logging the title and author of books you’ve read in the corresponding squares. Complete any five squares for a bingo or challenge yourself to fill the entire card with 25 books. Use the Beanstack app to track your progress online.
3. Submit Your Card: Return completed cards to any library location or log your progress online by Feb. 28. Participants can submit one card to qualify for prizes.
Prizes and Rewards:
• Read 5 Books: Earn a limited-edition campfire mug (while supplies last) and be entered into a drawing for prizes like Apple AirPods.
• Read 25 Books: Enter the grand prize drawing for an iPad, VIP tickets to Literary Voices featuring Jodi Picoult, and a YMCA membership.
Need help finding your next read? Librarians are available to provide tailored recommendations through Tailored Titles, at your local branch, or by phone at (405) 231-8650.
This cherished program has become a highlight of the season for many readers, offering a chance to unwind, explore new stories and connect with others. Start your Winter Reading journey today and see if you can get a bingo! For more details, visit www.metrolibrary.org/winterreading.
The Metropolitan Library System serves Oklahoma County’s 800,000 residents across its 19 locations, welcoming over 5.4 million visits annually with more than 10 million checkouts. Explore digital resources available 24/7 at www.metrolibrary.org.