Herman Schmidt was born in Alexander, Kansas on Oct. 22, 1913. After growing up in Sheridan, Wyoming Schmidt was enlisted in Salt Lake City, Utah on June 15, 1937 attaining the rank of Gun (GM3c) with duties including the assembly, maintenance and repair of guns, gun mounts, and gun ports and took charge of guns and gun crews. Schmidt also handled and stowed ammunition and handled mines and depth charges before the authorization of the mineman rating.
Promotions included Apprentice Seaman upon enlistment, Seaman 2nd Class: Oct. 15, 1937, Seaman 1st Class: Oct. 16, 1939 and Gunner’s Mate 3rd Class: June 12, 1941.
Herman Schmidt was lost Dec. 7, 1941. His duty station was the USS Oklahoma (BB 37) Sept. 25, 1937 and Naval Training Station San Diego, CA June 17, 1937.
Awards and Decorations* include the Purple Heart Medal, Combat Action Ribbon, Good Conduct Medal, American Defense Service Medal (with Fleet Clasp), Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal (with Bronze Star), American Campaign Medal and the World War II Victory Medal.
Herman Schmidt was buried in Arlington National Cemetery on Feb. 23.

Canterbury Voices will reprise jazz legend Dave Brubeck’s To Hope! A Celebration for the first time in 15 years, with guest artists The Brubeck Brothers Quartet, culminating in a celebration of Artistic Director Dr. Randi Von Ellefson’s final performance at the Civic Center Music Hall on Thursday, March 9 at 7:30 PM. To Hope! artfully combines elements of pure jazz with a setting of the Roman Catholic Mass, a sacred expression of joy and hope and possibility.
“I am excited about coming to Oklahoma City with The Brubeck Brothers Quartet to perform To Hope!, one of my father’s greatest achievements as a serious, classical composer.” says Chris Brubeck. “It is an uplifting, powerful musical and spiritual experience for the audience and performers. This piece is alive and ever-changing, along with its beautifully composed choral passages and gorgeous melodies.”
“This is one of Brubeck’s most beloved pieces for large chorus, soloists, and orchestra. I am so excited to bring the Brubeck Quartet back to OKC.” says Dr. Randi Von Ellefson. “It is filled with Brubeck’s joy of life, of music, and his fervent faith.” The concert event will also include three vocal soloists and members from the Oklahoma City Philharmonic.
Canterbury Voices Executive Director Pam Mowry says, “I can’t believe this is Randi Von Ellefson’s last Civic Center concert! He is leaving such a lasting legacy – what a remarkable journey in Oklahoma City. His positive energy and expert musicianship has brought joy to this organization and our musicians over the past 19 years. You simply won’t want to miss it!” Canterbury will host a champagne reception for Dr. Ellefson in the Civic Center lobby immediately following the performance.
Tickets are now on sale and group discounts are available. Call the Box Office at (405) 232- SING or visit https://canterburyokc.com/ for ticket information.

Story by Darl DeVault, contributing editor

The Mansion at Waterford Assisted Living Director of Sales and Marketing Sarah Ochoa welcomed the group of 56 Senior Business Solution colleagues to their networking luncheon on February 16. Emphasizing how their company recently purchased Glade Avenue Assisted Living and Glade Avenue South in Bethany, Ochoa spoke of the new, more affordable offerings for their metro area services there.
The Mansion at Waterford, undergoing renovations, shared its premium meeting space, their richly appointed dining room, for the monthly gathering of senior healthcare marketers and senior-focused company workers.
“It is wonderful to see those who dedicate their lives to senior living congregating and building bonds,” said Jamie Spicer, regional director of sales and marketing.
The Mansion treated the networking group to one of the host’s amenities, a well-received lunch of loaded potatoes and a salad bar.
Many attendees were learning about the facility for the first time, as it was the first time the event had been there in the six years the SBS group has been getting together. During the hour-and-a-half meal and networking session many community peers met for the first time. For others, it was apparent they had been attending the networking luncheons for many years.
The meeting was a more personalized version of a monthly networking newsletter with information, announcements, and networking within the senior health and retirement industry.
The luncheon continued with each invitee giving a few minutes of background on their employer and how they saw their role in helping seniors with their needs in the community. A few people outlined special events their venues were planning soon, inviting others to attend. Some providers reported real-time availability for their care, housing options, and home care and hospice providers. Speakers covered various topics ranging from personnel issues to renovation offerings and help explaining Medicare to patients and clients.
The discussion often centered on getting calls from care managers or discharge planners from hospitals and rehabs. Some explained they were available to help them find a community with openings, who is full, who can offer space, and who can provide temp nurse slots.
Heath Pruitt, with Mobility City, explained that owner Guy Colbert was busy that day putting his engineering background to work assisting veterans, seniors, the injured and disabled with their needs for wheelchairs and scooters.
Darl DeVault said the group could lobby their elected representatives for better senior services in the state at the Monday, February 27, Senior Day at the Capitol. He said they could find an extensive description of the event in his article in February’s Senior News and Living issue.
Several speakers shared information about upcoming professional events. The guests were reminded of the Oklahoma Assisted Living Association’s role in Oklahoma and the many events OKALA stages each year.
Jessica Hogner invited everyone to the Alzheimer’s Association’s Committee Kickoff Party 6-7:30 p.m. March 7 at their offices. She emphasized that they will gladly conduct special events at their facilities to support the agenda and spark interest in the Walk to End Alzheimer’s, with the main ones in Tulsa and OKC.
Some providers reported real-time availability for their care, housing options, and home care and hospice providers.
A radio station representative who primarily markets information emphasized the station strives to be a dependable senior community resource.
Representatives of an Informed Senior Seminar to be held Friday, 8:30 a.m. to noon, April 14, spoke of how all the local law enforcement and state agencies will come together that day to offer seniors an overview of their many services.
Bill Muir, CSA and owner of Compass Senior Living Solutions could not attend because of family commitments. Knowing how important it is for executives addressing area aging agendas to network, he founded the monthly get-togethers six years ago. Networking is essential to his company, as it provides a free placement service giving personalized tours to some 55 senior communities in the area at every level of need.
Joe Forrest with Re/Max FIRST alerted those gathered to the financial conditions in the real estate market for those seniors seeking to sell their homes to move to senior centers. He has been helping seniors in Oklahoma for 25 years via ownership, operations and management of senior healthcare organizations. Forrest has worked in home healthcare services, independent and assisted living, and rehabilitation. He has been a realtor for the past 20 years.
Conversations before and after the more formal portion allowed attendees to stay connected with their senior industry peers while building possible referral networks.

Vistit The Mansion at Waterford

by Greg Schwem

The art of face-to-face communication took a huge hit due to the pandemic, and it has sadly also affected my favorite solo traveling game.
I’ve titled the game, “Walk Into a Bar and Get One Person Off Their Phone.”
I often find myself alone in strange cities and, rather than ordering room service and bemoaning the fact that the hotel TV package doesn’t include Netflix, I choose to explore my surroundings; trips that culminate in solo dining at restaurant bars. Brewpubs are my favorites, but I recently eliminated gluten from my diet and now must endure strange looks from brewmasters when I belly up to their establishments and order an apple-infused seltzer.
I choose a seat immediately next to, or if the bar is empty, one stool away from another patron. I prefer solo customers like myself, as they are usually scrolling their phones. I’ll say this about the cellphone: It eliminated the scarlet letter that often comes with dining or drinking solo. Instead of projecting a sad, “I have no friends,” vibe, you can pass yourself off as an important business person, albeit one with no friends and whose “business” is watching funny cat videos.
From there, it’s “GAME ON!” As an ice breaker, I might ask my intended targets what they are drinking or seek their reviews on whatever culinary dish has been placed before them. If they respond, I might make a comment about what is on the TV, although I have my limitations. Before I enter an establishment, I look at the screen and ensure the answer is “no” to the following questions:
1. Is “Wheel of Fortune” on?
2. Are the patrons actively watching it?
Recently I dined at a Chicago-area tavern known, among locals, for having some of the best barebcue ribs in the city. I will not name the establishment, for the bar only contains 10 stools and my chances to snag one diminish if I reveal the identity. Seated next to me were two bros in their late 20s, alternating between scrolling their phones and glancing at the Buffalo Bills/Cincinnati Bengals playoff game. I pounced.
“Which one of you has a dog in this fight?” I said, gesturing at the TV.
“He does,’” said Jordan, gesturing to his friend Paul, who stopped scrolling.
“Are you from Buffalo or Cincinnati?” I asked.
“Neither,” Paul said. “Just a die-hard Bills fan.”
From there, the floodgates opened. I learned Jordan was cajoling Paul to move to Chicago; Jordan had just gotten married; Paul liked the idea of marriage but was content (like all Gen Z types) with his dog.
It was such a pleasant encounter, particularly because my last three attempts at this type of interaction resulted in the following:
1. A woman in the Houston airport thought her Instagram account was, apparently, more interesting than anything I had to say.
2. A guy in a Grand Cayman tiki bar falsely accused me of “hitting” on his male friend. His UGLY friend, I might add.
3. A 50-ish woman in Miami suddenly became a huge TikTok fan after my opening line was, “Since this is the Miami airport, let me ask you…how many days have you been delayed?”
I thought it was funny.
I so long for the days when most of society was friendly, inquisitive and curious. Now we hide behind our social media accounts and within our AirPods. We can always find somebody more intriguing on our phone than the person sitting next to us. It is both infuriating and depressing.
My favorite writer, David Sedaris, once wrote that teenage boys would never want to be seen talking to an old man. I agree with that. But teenage boys do not sit at bars. Full grown adults do; and, if you are reading this, rest assured that I want to hear your stories.
I can look at my phone whenever I want, but this will most likely be my only encounter with you and it will only last until my check arrives. So please indulge me, or other strangers who strike up conversations in public establishments. If the conversation turns uncomfortable or creepy, just put in your AirPods or FaceTime a relative. But you may begin a friendship, strike up a business deal or discover you grew up in the same town if you make a little eye contact and then take it one step further.
Hell, you may even learn where to find the best barbecue in Chicago.
(Greg Schwem is a corporate stand-up comedian and author of two books: “Text Me If You’re Breathing: Observations, Frustrations and Life Lessons From a Low-Tech Dad” and the recently released “The Road To Success Goes Through the Salad Bar: A Pile of BS From a Corporate Comedian,” available at Amazon.com. Visit Greg on the web at www.gregschwem.com.
You’ve enjoyed reading, and laughing at, Greg Schwem’s monthly humor columns in Senior Living News. But did you know Greg is also a nationally touring stand-up comedian? And he loves to make audiences laugh about the joys, and frustrations, of growing older. Watch the clip and, if you’d like Greg to perform at your senior center or senior event, contact him through his website at www.gregschwem.com)

Story and photo by Lisa Gonzalez, Contributing Writer

As we age, managing financial matters can become more challenging. But staying on top of our finances is essential for avoiding financial fraud, minimizing debt, and making the most of our retirement savings. If you think your senior loved one is struggling with money management, it might be time to step in and offer to help with their financial matters. Today, Senior News and Living explores some common signs that your senior loved one may be struggling with their finances as well as some steps you can take to help out.

Look for Signs of Financial Management Issues

Financial management issues aren’t always obvious, even to close loved ones. Keep an eye out for some common signs that your senior loved one may be having a hard time tending to their financial responsibilities:

• Unopened mail lying around the house.

• Purchases that are out of character.

• Unexpected changes in their investment portfolio.

• Large bank withdrawals or transfers between accounts.

• Taking longer than usual to pay bills and complete other everyday financial tasks.

• Paying the same bill more than once.

• Repeatedly calling the bank for passwords and pin numbers.

Some of these signs might also indicate that your senior has become a victim of financial fraud or financial exploitation. If you suspect this is the case, AgingCare.com recommends gathering as many details as possible and reporting your suspicions to local law enforcement.

Help Your Loved One Sell Their Business

If your senior loved one runs a business and they’re struggling to keep up with their business finances, this could be a good time to sell. Help your loved one prepare their business for sale by getting a professional business valuation. A business valuation will provide an objective perspective on the company’s value, void of any sentimental value your loved one may assign to it. A valuation is also important for arriving at a realistic asking price that buyers think is fair.

Obtain Power of Attorney

Getting a general power of attorney will enable you to act on the behalf of your senior loved one both financially and legally. You’ll be able to sign documents on their behalf, open or close bank accounts, withdraw funds, pay bills, cash checks, and even enter into contracts for utilities and services.

Be sure to approach your loved one with power of attorney discussions while they’re still able to make their own decisions. Since this can be a difficult conversation, work to build trust before broaching the topic. Offer to help with financial matters and decisions to show that you care about what’s going on in their life. Most importantly, avoid pressuring them, placing blame, or shaming them for their financial struggles.

Consider Relocating

Handling all of this long distance can be pretty daunting – if not impossible – and frequent car rides or plane trips can be exhausting, as well. If you feel like you might need to be closer to your loved one for a while to see that everything gets done right, you might want to look into buying a house in the area. Do some online research to see properties with your preferred amenities as well as price, and don’t be afraid to ask tough questions when you go to look at the house.

Take Over Regular Financial Tasks

Whether or not you have power of attorney, you can help your senior loved one with a number of regular financial tasks like paying bills or monthly budgeting. This is easier to do with a joint bank account. GetCareful.com recommends considering the pros and cons of a joint account before moving forward. While a joint account will allow you to monitor transactions and help your senior loved one with their finances, it can also create complications with taxes, estate planning, and social security benefits. Consider talking to a financial advisor about this decision to ensure it’s the right move for your family.

Many seniors need help with financial management at some point. If you have a parent, sibling, or spouse who is struggling with their finances, offer to lend a hand! Discuss their options, be respectful, and let them make decisions on their own. Whether you end up helping them sell their business or paying their monthly bills, your assistance will go a long way toward improving their financial well-being!

Senior News and Living provides readers a fresh publication filled with news and features with resources for the mature reader. Contact us today for more info!

A new luxury senior living brand has acquired Wickshire Senior Living to bring its unique model of resort-style accommodations to Norman.
Unlike traditional senior living facilities, Luxe Life offers an amenity-rich environment with spacious suites, a salon and spa, a wellness center, concierge services, personalized activities and restaurant-style dining with menus created by an on-site executive chef. There is also professional medical care, including memory and respite care, available for people who need it, as well as 24/7 access to nursing staff.
Luxe Life is the latest venture from Chicago-based Ignite Medical Resorts, which combines uncompromising luxury and rapid rehabilitation in a high-end setting. Ignite operates three locations in Oklahoma, one of which is adjacent to Luxe Life in Norman.
“Luxe Life is a natural extension of the Ignite brand,” said Tim Fields, the companies’ CEO and co-founder. “Whether someone is coming from one of our medical resorts or simply making an exciting lifestyle change, they’ll receive top-tier hospitality and expert service. It’s just like home — only better.”

The company recognizes the importance of a nutritious and delicious dining program, even inviting residents to join the culinary committee to suggest recipes. Happy hours will include delicious chef-driven cuisine and cocktails indoors or on the patio at Fireside Grille.
“Our Luxe Chef will whip up indulgences from around the world and can accommodate all allergies and specific dietary needs,” Fields said. “We’ll also offer chef demonstrations, culinary events, wine and cheese gatherings and catering for special occasions. By focusing on quality, fresh ingredients, residents will feel like they’re eating at a five-star restaurant every day.”
The company is currently renovating the facility to provide resort-style living, with a Luxe Café proudly brewing Starbucks coffee to open this summer. Renovations won’t disrupt resident life.
The facility is boutique-sized and intimate offering a limited number of suites. Suites are still available but filling up fast. To request a tour and secure your space, visit
https://www.luxelifeseniorliving.com/.
Luxe Life Senior Living allows residents to live life to the fullest and join a community with purpose. People can live at Luxe Life independently or with assistance, and memory care services and respite care are also available. The facility offers a full-service, amenity-rich environment with spacious suites, restaurant-style dining, concierge services, 24/7 access to nursing staff, a wellness center, a salon and spa and more. For additional information, visit https://www.luxelifeseniorliving.com/.

Story by Darl Devault, Contributing Editor

The annual Friends of the Metro Library Booksale in February is growing as senior volunteers step up to face the challenge of a crowd so large that organizers needed to limit the number of shoppers allowed in the largest building at the same time.
The used book selection was the most extensive ever seen at the book sale, as was the number of shoppers. Fortunately, the “Better Books” section in the smaller building had no entry restrictions during the day. Thousands of book lovers lined up early on Saturday, February 25, well before the 9 a.m. opening in the Oklahoma Expo Hall at the Oklahoma City State Fairgrounds.
Heather Zeoli, Metro Library System director of development said, “This event is growing every year, and we are proud of our volunteers, including Ellen DeFehr, who is working at the back of this building today.”
It was undoubtedly a record crowd for Saturday, but estimating the number of shoppers at an event when the crowd never ends is difficult.
Many customers from out of state see the book sale as a do-not-miss event every year. In the crowd shopping the better books area, one senior customer said he had never missed a book sale. At the table for books by Oklahoma authors and books about Oklahoma, he was so excited that he was willing to brag about his good fortune this year.
John Carpenter, 68, was proud of what he found on offer this year. “I am buying a book written and autographed by Bobby Murcer (May 2008 autobiography, “Yankee for Life: My 40-Year Journey in Pinstripes” published by HarperCollins),” Carpenter said in an interview. “Murcer was a Southeast High School baseball player who replaced another superstar Oklahoman, Mickey Mantle, in the New York Yankees outfield. It is amazing to buy this donated book in such great condition with his autograph. It is as amazing as finding his autographed 1966 rookie card, except this is from the end of his career in the limelight since he died only two months after it was published.”
Carpenter, a Choctaw resident and retired Oklahoma probation and parole officer, has become a well-known local yoga and spin teacher since retiring in 2011.
The sale’s popularity has led to a competitive atmosphere among shoppers, who know this is a once-a-year opportunity to find great deals on books and other media. Despite the frenzied atmosphere, the sale remains a favorite among book lovers and bargain hunters alike, offering a unique opportunity to discover new authors and titles while stocking up on beloved favorites.
Customers come to shop for various reasons. Some try to select bestsellers, classics, collectibles, and research books needed for school. Others seek to complete personal libraries in certain subjects, while parents strive to enhance their children’s reading exposure. The children’s section was swamped all day.
Providing a diverse selection of paperback and hardcover books, CDs, DVDs, magazines and more for every demographic of customers this year, the sale’s theme was “Books Bring Us Together.” The books featured many subjects—fiction, nonfiction, cookbooks, biographies, medical, westerns, romance, children’s, encyclopedias, reference and foreign language books. Several thousand big print books were offered with the larger point-size fonts needed to make reading easier for those with weak eyesight.
Despite the vast number of books on offer, the sale is organized by many senior volunteers in a way that allows customers to navigate through the different sections of tables easily. The literary sale has become a special event in Oklahoma and beyond, offering book lovers a chance to discover new titles, expand their collections, and connect with like-minded individuals. The sale’s success is a testament to the enduring appeal of the written word. Its continued popularity was a testament to the passion and dedication of its volunteer organizers and supporters.
Volunteers worked tirelessly to ensure that everything ran smoothly. They went to great lengths to ensure that the thousands of books were well organized by subject and shoppers could easily find what they wanted. With so much on offer, getting lost in the sea of books could be easy, but the volunteers were always ready to help.
The sale raised money to support the Metropolitan Library System. In its 43-year run, the Friends had given more than $5 million in grants to the system.

Story by Joyce Clark, Executive Director – Saint Ann Retirement Center

As a single woman in her 60’s who is also the director of a senior living campus, I often hear friends and residents comment on the challenges of finding love after reaching an age of experience. The fact is there are many more single women than men age 65 and better. The guys hold an advantage and simply have more to choose from to meet their romance needs. That means a woman interested in finding love might benefit from a strategic approach to broadening her circle of potential candidates.
The benefits of finding love later in life are numerous. Companionship and emotional support can improve overall well-being and reduce the risk of health issues such as depression and heart disease. A partner can also provide financial and practical support, making it easier to pay bills and navigate life.
Finding love at any age can be challenging, but it is possible to find a new partner even after age 60. Below are a few suggestions to help single folks succeed in their search for a mate. I may try out a few of these recommendations later this year and get back with you readers on my experiences. Call me at (405) 721-0747 Ext #301 and let me know if you have any fun or interesting stories or tips to share!
BUILD A STRONG FOUNDATION: Focus on developing self-love, clear communication skills, flexibility, and appeal. These are essential to attract someone and to maintain a healthy relationship.
JOIN SENIOR DATING WEBSITES OR APPS: Online dating can be a great way for older adults to connect with others. Look for reputable dating apps or websites and be sure to protect your personal information. Be honest about yourself and about what you are looking for in a match. This will help increase the chances of finding a compatible partner.
PRACTICE SELF-CARE: Taking care of yourself physically and emotionally will make you a more attractive and confident partner.
BE ACTIVE IN YOUR COMMUNITY: Get involved in your local community through volunteering and helping out at events. This can help you meet new people and find potential partners.
BE CONFIDENT: Believe in yourself and your ability to find love and to be loved. Confidence is attractive and can help you make a connection with someone.
DON’T RUSH: Take your time in getting to know someone and building a relationship. Love takes time to develop, and it’s important to be patient and allow things to blossom naturally.
HAVE FUN: Remember that finding love should be fun and enjoyable. Don’t put too much pressure on yourself and enjoy the journey.
GET OUT AND SOCIALIZE: Join clubs, groups, or organizations that align with your interests. Look for local events and activities that are geared towards seniors, such as dances, book clubs, church classes, and fitness groups. This will give you the opportunity to meet new people who share your passions. It’s important to be active and engage with others in the social activities you join. Be open to conversations and make an effort to get to know people. Don’t be afraid to ask someone out for coffee or a meal to get to know them better. Saint Ann Assisted & Independent Living has numerous entertainers and fun things to do. You are welcome to come join the fun. Life enrichment calendars are typically on the website:
https://www.saintannretirementcenter.com/ or you can call Lisa at (405) 721-0747 Ext #322 to have calendars emailed to you.

BE OPEN-MINDED: Don’t limit yourself to a certain age range or type of person. You never know who you might connect with.
DON’T GIVE UP: Finding love takes time and patience. Keep an open mind and continue to put yourself out there.
TAKE UP A NEW HOBBY: Expanding your horizons can be interesting and fun. Joining a club or group that focuses on a hobby you enjoy is a great way to meet new people.
SEEK OUT PROFESSIONAL HELP: If you are struggling to find love, consider seeking out the help of a professional matchmaker or dating coach who can help you navigate the dating scene.
TAKE A CLASS: Sign up for a class that interests you, such as a cooking class, photography class, or dance class. This can be a great way to meet new people and find someone who shares your interests.
ATTEND EVENTS: This can include community festivals, fairs, concerts, or art shows. These events can provide a relaxed and fun atmosphere to meet new people and make connections.
CELEBRATE YOUR AGE: Embrace your age and all that it represents. You have a lifetime of experiences and wisdom that makes you unique and valuable.
BE KIND TO YOURSELF: Treat yourself with kindness and compassion.
INVOLVE FRIENDS & FAMILY: Ask others to connect you with someone they think may be a great match.
BE HONEST WITH YOURSELF AND OTHERS: Be open and truthful with yourself and others about what you are looking for in a relationship. This will help you find someone who truly matches your needs and wants.
LOOK FOR OTHER WAYS: For example, recently a woman placed a personal advertisement in Senior News & Living classifieds seeking a compatible man. She reports she has had tremendous results. Taking initiative and action to find love might open more doors and expedite success.
Joyce Clark is the Executive Director of Saint Ann Assisted & Independent Living in Oklahoma City. Saint Ann is an affordable and fun community that has new levels of care, including short-term respite stay. The beautiful home is a ministry of The Archdiocese of Oklahoma City and people of all faiths love living at Saint Ann. Call Lisa at (405) 721-0747 Ext #322 or visit the website https://www.saintannretirementcenter.com/ for more information about assisted or independent living.

Remember being told as a kid that eating your carrots would improve your eyesight? While a diet containing carrots promotes good vision, your eyes may benefit even more by eating broccoli, kale or Brussels sprouts.
That’s the assessment of Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation scientist Scott Plafker, Ph.D., who recently found that a compound in cruciferous vegetables shows the potential to prevent age-related macular degeneration.
In research models, the compound sulforaphane preserved the function of light-sensitive cells in the retina. These cells, called cones, are responsible for color vision by sending signals to the brain, which then translates the signals into color.
Macular degeneration occurs when these cells die, causing blind spots and blurry or distorted central vision. It can worsen over time, affecting a person’s ability to read, drive and recognize faces.
The most common treatment for the eye disorder is “handfuls of vitamins and antioxidant supplements,” Plafker said. Sulforaphane is a natural antioxidant, he said, but it typically is not part of the suggested cocktail for macular degeneration.
“This compound has previously shown the ability to help our cells defend themselves from oxidative stress,” Plafker said. “In these experiments, sulforaphane provided that defense to the retina.”
Sulforaphane is found in cauliflower, radishes, broccoli and other members of the cabbage family. It also is available as a supplement, but Plafker said research has shown it offers more value in its natural form, whether fresh, frozen or canned.
Scientists have conducted numerous clinical trials testing sulforaphane’s benefits on medical issues ranging from autism and schizophrenia to enlarged ovaries and prostate cancer. Plafker’s lab was the first to demonstrate its potential to recover cone function.
Macular degeneration is the leading cause of irreversible vision loss in older adults, affecting more than 10 million people in the U.S., according to the American Macular Degeneration Foundation. The risk increases with age. For those 75 or older, the risk of developing macular degeneration is 1 in 3.
“Dr. Plafker’s findings raise the intriguing possibility that a well-known compound present in many vegetables may protect against vision loss as people age,” said OMRF Vice President of Research Rod McEver, M.D. “Considering there are no treatments for most people with macular degeneration, this is an especially compelling discovery.”
More research is needed to better understand how and why cells in the eye benefit from sulforaphane, Plafker said, and whether that benefit extends universally or only to a subset of potential macular degeneration patients.
But for now, Plafker said, lean into green. “A diet rich in vegetables like broccoli, kale and cabbage has health benefits as far as the eye can see.”
The findings were published in the journal Molecular Vision. The research was supported by grant 1 R01EY024944-01A1 from the National Eye Institute, part of the National Institutes of Health, and grants from the Oklahoma Center for the Advancement of Science and Technology and the Presbyterian Health Foundation. Scientists at the University of Alabama, Birmingham, contributed to the research.