Tuesday, July 7, 2026

Savvy Senior: Top New Cars for Older Drivers

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Dear Savvy Senior, My wife and I are both in our late sixties and are looking to buy a new car. Can you recommend some good resources that can help us evaluate and choose a good car for older drivers? Car Shoppers
Dear Shoppers,
With more than 40 million licensed drivers in the United States age 65 and older, many automakers today are designing certain vehicles that are friendlier for older drivers. But what makes a good car for seniors? For many, top priorities include a vehicle that’s easy to get into and out of, easy to adjust for fit and comfort, easy to operate and see out of, as well as reliable, safe and a good value.
To help you narrow your vehicle choices, Consumer Reports and the American Automobile Association (AAA) offer some great information and tools to assist you.
CR Best Cars
Consumer Reports recently put out a top 25 ranking of new cars for senior drivers. Each vehicle on their list offers excellent or very good ratings on reliability, safety, road-test performance and owner satisfaction. And, they offer a variety of senior-friendly features that are extremely important to older divers, like:
* Easy front-seat access: Vehicles with low door thresholds, wider door openings, and step-in heights that reduce the need for ducking or climbing, make getting into and out of a car easier for those with physical limitations.
* Good visibility: Being able to see well out of the front, sides, and back of a vehicle for tall, medium, and shorter drivers.
* Simplified controls: Easy-to-read gauges and simplified/intuitive controls for changing the radio, shifting gears, and adjusting the heating and cooling is a high priority among older drivers.
* Bright headlights: Powerful headlights can make driving at night easier for people with decreasing or compromised vision.
They also weighed in extra safety features (standard or optional) like a backup camera, automatic emergency braking, forward-collision warning and blind-spot warning.
Their picks include a variety of compact and midsized sedans and SUVs, two minivans and a station wagon from seven different automakers. Here’s their top 25 ranking, starting with one through 25: Subaru Forester; Subaru Outback; Kia Soul; Subaru Legacy; Kia Sportage; Toyota Highlander; Toyota Prius V; Toyota RAV4; Honda Odyssey; Nissan Rogue; Honda Accord; Ford C-Max Hybrid; Hyundai Sonata; Toyota Camry; Subaru Crosstrek; Toyota Sienna; Honda CR-V; Honda Pilot; Kia Forte; Ford Escape; Toyota Corolla; Kia Sorento; Ford Flex; Hyundai Santa Fe; Hyundai Tucson.
For more information on their top 25 list, see ConsumerReports.org/elderly-driving/top-25-new-cars-for-senior-drivers.
AAA Tool
Another great resource that can help you evaluate and chose a vehicle that meets your needs is the AAA online tool “Smart Features for Older Drivers.”
At SeniorDriving.AAA.com/SmartFeatures you can check the areas you have problems with – like diminished vision, cognitive decline, limited upper body range of motion, decreased leg strength, arthritic hands, short stature or overweight – and the tool will identify vehicles that have the features that will best accommodate your needs. Although this tool looks at model-year 2016 vehicles, in many cases the features shown are carried over for 2017 models.
They also have a Smart Features brochure you can download that will tell you what to look for in a vehicle to best accommodate your needs.

Send your senior questions to: Savvy Senior, P.O. Box 5443, Norman, OK 73070, or visit SavvySenior.org. Jim Miller is a contributor to the NBC Today show and author of “The Savvy Senior” book.

INTEGRIS to remain in BCBSOK networks

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Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Oklahoma (BCBSOK) and INTEGRIS have reached a new contract agreement. The timely agreement comes just days prior to the current contract’s expiration – good news for the thousands of BCBSOK members who depend on INTEGRIS facilities and doctors across Oklahoma.
“Reaching an agreement was always our goal,” said Bruce Lawrence, president and chief executive officer of INTEGRIS. “Both INTEGRIS and Blue Cross and Blue Shield want what is best for our patients – and that is to continue offering high-quality, convenient and affordable medical care and coverage to the people of Oklahoma.”
The two-year agreement means BCBSOK members can seek services at INTEGRIS facilities throughout the state, including: Oklahoma City, Edmond, Enid, Grove, Miami and Yukon. BCBSOK members in the Blue TraditionalSM, Blue Choice PPOSM, Blue Preferred PPOSM, BlueLincs HMOSM, Medicare AdvantageSM and Medicare Supplemental plan provider networks will receive in-network benefits at INTEGRIS facilities as well as with more than 600 INTEGRIS doctors. As part of the agreement, INTEGRIS hospitals and employed physicians will also participate in BCBSOK’s exchange product Blue Advantage. That effective date will be announced soon.
“We are pleased to reach a new agreement that allows our members to continue receiving care at INTEGRIS at in-network rates and benefit levels,” said Ted Haynes, president of BCBSOK. “We take very seriously our role as steward of our members’ health care coverage dollars. This agreement underscores our commitment to provide our members access to quality, cost-effective health care and ensures members are treated by in-network health care providers when going to an in-network facility. We look forward to continuing our long-term relationship with INTEGRIS.”
Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Oklahoma and INTEGRIS thank the people in all the communities where INTEGRIS operates for their patience and support during this negotiation. BCBSOK and INTEGRIS worked diligently behind the scenes to resolve contractual issues and to prevent any lapse in coverage for BCBSOK members.

SPECIAL TO SN&L: Feeling short of breath? It could be something serious.

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September is Global Pulmonary Fibrosis Awareness Month. While most Americans don’t have first hand knowledge of pulmonary fibrosis, the 140,000 Americans who are reported to have it according to the American Lung Association are well aware of the impact it makes on their lives as well as their family.
Pulmonary Fibrosis is one of a family of related diseases called interstitial lung diseases that normally results in lung scarring. As the lung tissue becomes scarred, it interferes with a person’s ability to breathe and deliver oxygen into the blood. One of the most common types of Pulmonary Fibrosis is Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis (IPF – Idiopathic means no known cause). Currently, there is no cure for the disease and no way to reverse lung scarring and damage, so for most, the only hope is a lung transplant.
IPF is commonly misdiagnosed. An accurate diagnosis may be delayed for months or even years because the symptoms of IPF are shared by many other and more common lung diseases, such as COPD, asthma or even cardiac issues. IPF is normally characterized and noticed by a persistent cough and shortness of breath. As the lungs develop more scar tissue, symptoms worsen and patients may become breathless while taking part in everyday activities, such as showering, getting dressed, speaking on the phone, or even eating.
Other common symptoms of IPF include: Fatigue and weakness, Discomfort in the chest, Loss of appetite, Unexplained weight loss, Clubbing’ of fingertips.
Diagnosis is normally confirmed through Pulmonary Function Tests, combined with a High-Resolution Computed Tomography (HRCT) scan of the chest and other pulmonary tests.
To manage symptoms and slow the process, the Food and Drug Administration approved the drugs, nintedanib – brand name Ofev – and pirfenidone – brand name Esbriet – in October 2014. But they are extremely expensive and cost-prohibitive for some. Even with the medications that are designed to slow the process, presently there is no way to reverse lung scarring and damage.
To support this rare disease, the Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation has created a wealth of information for patients, caregivers and friends to increase their knowledge, and be better prepared to partner with their Pulmonologist and other doctors. Its mission is to serve as the trusted resource for the pulmonary fibrosis community by raising awareness, providing disease education and funding research.
Support is There……..
Participating in a support group may improve your emotional well-being and have a positive impact on your health by offering you an opportunity to connect with others who are facing similar experiences, obtain practical information, and to receive support. Support groups can also be a valuable resource for your caregivers, other family members, and friends. The Oklahoma City area Pulmonary Fibrosis Support Group meets the first Tuesday of every month from 6:30pm – 8:00pm at Integris Baptist Medical Center, 3300 NW Expressway, Conference Rooms J, K, and L, Oklahoma City, OK. There is no charge to attend.
To learn more about IPF, and the available resources for the pulmonary fibrosis community, visit the Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation website at www.pulmonaryfibrosis.org

Mercy Announces New Leader in El Reno

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Cindy Carmichael, administrator at Mercy Hospital El Reno .

Beginning in September, Mercy will have a familiar leader at the helm in El Reno.
Cindy Carmichael will return to Mercy Hospital El Reno for a second time as administrator. She served as interim administrator in 2009 prior to becoming chief operating officer in her current role at Mercy Hospital Ardmore. “Cindy has a love for El Reno, and El Reno has a love for her,” Mayor Matt White said. “We’re excited for her to be part of our continued success.”
In addition to her new position, Carmichael will provide support and oversight to Mercy administrators in Kingfisher, Guthrie and Watonga as regional administrator.
Carmichael has been with Mercy for more than a decade and has spent a large portion of her career dedicated to the development of rural health care. While in Ardmore, she helped forge a deeper relationship with Oklahoma Heart Hospital, which provides cardiac care for patients in southern Oklahoma. Carmichael also was instrumental in the construction and opening of a new Mercy clinic in Ardmore.
“Cindy has spent her career helping provide quality health care to towns across Oklahoma,” said Jim Gebhart, regional strategy officer for Mercy and president of Mercy Hospital Oklahoma City. “She brings an awareness of rural health care that gives us great confidence with her in this role.”
Doug Danker, El Reno’s former hospital administrator, will continue his service with Mercy as director of emergency medical services, where he will focus on growing Mercy’s ambulance service across the northern half of Oklahoma. Danker began his career with Mercy, formerly Parkview Hospital, in 1989 as a paramedic. He later served as supervisor of medical surgery and as director of nursing before being appointed administrator in 2012.
“It’s a double win for El Reno,” White said. “Mercy has given us a fabulous team with Doug and Cindy, and I’m excited to see what they’ve laid out for the community.”

Suspicious Phone Calls Alert

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With Medicare open enrollment less than two months away, the Oklahoma Insurance Department is asking seniors to be on alert. The warning comes after several Oklahomans have reported questionable phone calls from people claiming to represent or partner with Medicare.
“These callers are insistent on getting personal information from our seniors,” said Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak. “We urge Oklahomans to never give out personal details such as date of birth, bank account numbers or their Medicare number over the phone. There are just too many cases of fraudulent activity in phone calls and new scams cropping up on a regular basis.” In one case, a man reported the caller asked for his birth date and Medicare costs. The caller implied that she was working with Medicare to audit Medicare supplement costs. In another instance, the caller told a senior he could get free supports and braces for his back and legs even though he did not need them. Seniors should beware of any promises of 100 percent coverage for medical equipment by Medicare. Medicare only covers durable medical equipment that is medically necessary and ordered by a doctor.
Purchasing medical equipment over the phone or internet and without involving your physician could actually cause more harm than good. The same is true for purchasing insurance.
To avoid potential scams, never buy insurance over the phone from an agent you do not know. It’s safer to use a local agent who you either personally know or who has been recommended to you by family or friends.
Here are a few more tips to protect yourself:
* If you don’t recognize the number on your caller ID, don’t answer the phone. If it’s important, the caller will leave a message. * If you answer the phone and realize it’s someone trying to sell you something or asking for your personal information, hang up. Seniors were raised to be polite, but in these situations, safety is more important. * If someone shows up at your home claiming to be from Medicare or claiming to partner with Medicare, close the door. Medicare will not come to your house, and Medicare does not endorse any particular policy or insurance company. * Report any suspicious calls to the Medicare Assistance Program at the Oklahoma Insurance Department at 800-763-2828.

Cancers Survivor’s Workshop to be held Saturday, Sept. 16

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The Stephenson Cancer Center will hold a Gynecologic Cancers Survivor’s Workshop on Saturday, Sept. 16 from 8 am to 4 pm in Oklahoma City.
The all-day workshop is designed to provide patients, survivors, and caregivers with the basics of gynecologic cancers as well as in-depth information on targeted therapies and treatments. Additional topics include: genetic and tumor testing, vaccinations and preventions, and supportive care topics including lymphedema, sexual health, and physical therapy.
The workshop is open to gynecologic cancers patients, survivors, and caregivers. Regardless of when or where treatment was received, all are welcome to attend. There is no cost to attend, and breakfast and lunch will be provided.
The Gynecologic Cancer Survivor’s Workshop will take place at the Samis Education Center at The Children’s Hospital, located at 1200 Children’s Ave., Oklahoma City, OK 73104. To RSVP for the workshop, please visit stephensoncancercenter.org/gynoncworkshop or call (405) 271-1253. According to the American Cancer Society, about 22,440 women will receive an ovarian cancer diagnosis and about 12,820 women will receive a cervical cancer diagnosis in 2017. Ovarian and cervical cancers represent the majority of all gynecologic cancer diagnoses.

“Song and Dance” Brightmusic Season Premier

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On Tuesday, September 26, 2017, Oklahoma City’s Brightmusic Chamber Ensemble will present its first concert of the 2017-18 season, “Song and Dance,” featuring works of 20th and 21st century composers celebrating song, dance and rhythm. Brightmusic strings, clarinet, horn and piano will present works by George Gershwin (“Porgy and Bess” Ballade), a suite of four tangos by Astor Piazzolla, a work by Oklahoma City’s Edward Knight and a sextet by Ernö Dohnányi (aka Ernst von Dohnanyi). Try and resist the urge to get up and dance!
The works on the program are: George Gershwin, “Porgy and Bess” Ballade (for violin, clarinet & piano) Gershwin was an early 20th-century American composer and pianist best known for his Rhapsody in Blue.
Astor Piazzolla, The Four Seasons of Buenos Aires (for violin, cello & piano) Piazzolla was a 20th century Argentinian composer best known for his tangos.
Edward Knight, Seventh Day of the Seventh Moon (for violin, cello, clarinet & piano) Knight is a contemporary American composer living in Oklahoma City celebrated for his distinctly American sound.
Ernst von Dohnanyi, Sextet in C major, Op. 37 (for violin, viola, cello, clarinet, horn & piano) Dohnanyi was a 19th-20th century Hungarian composer, pianist and conductor.
Brightmusic musicians performing are: Gregory Lee (violin), Mark Neumann (viola), Jonathan Ruck (cello), Chad Burrow (clarinet), Kate Pritchett (horn) and Amy I-Lin Cheng (piano).
The performance will take place at 7:30 pm on Tuesday, September 26 at St. Paul’s Cathedral, 127 NW 7th Street (at Robinson). Individual concert admission is $20 per ticket. Children, students and active-duty military personnel are admitted free with ID. More information about this concert is available on Brightmusic’s website at http://www.brightmusic.org.

Tying the Knot

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This month Bud Barker and Ann Trumbly will tie the knot at St. Mark The Evangelist Catholic church in Norman.

by Bobby Anderson, Staff Writer

Excitement is buzzing up and down the halls at Village on the Park in Oklahoma City.
The retirement community is atwitter over what is expected to be the blockbuster event of the summer – the wedding of residents Ann Trumbly and Bud Barker.
“He caught me in a weak moment,” the 84-year-old Trumbly smiled when asked what led to the upcoming August ceremony.
Both currently reside in separate cottages at Village on the Park and each lost spouses in the past.
Neither ever dreamed they would remarry.
“We just clicked, we really did,” Barker said. “We weren’t expecting it but it happened.”
The couple’s first official date came last October when a group of Village on the Park travelers went to Royal Bavaria restaurant in Moore to celebrate Octoberfest.
For weeks Barker had been telling Marketing Director Karen Proctor that he planned on “bringing a friend” but declined to say who it was.
“And forever they were just going to be friends,” Proctor said, unfolding the story.
The couple agreed to go out once a week for dinner. One week Trumbly would pay, the next Barker would pick up the check.
“Somewhere along the way they shocked me,” Proctor said. “They’re both educated. They both love music and they both just love talking to each other.”
A few months ago the couple pulled Proctor aside to tell her the big news.
“I just cried and cried and cried,” Proctor said. “I was shocked. They had kept saying over and over it was nice to have a good friend.”
But both agreed it was great to have a best friend again.
EVERYONE’S ABUZZ
“Everybody’s so excited,” Proctor said. “We’ve had residents who have gone and bought dresses – even though it’s going to be super casual.” Everybody feels a part of it because they knew them with their other spouses and were so sad when their spouses passed away.
“It’s been fun to see them have so much fun.”
Cake and punch will be served back at Village on the Park.
“Real simple. That was Ann’s orders,” Proctor said.
She helped the bride-to-be shop for a wedding dress – all without ever leaving Village on the Park, helping Trumbly navigate the Internet for the perfect gown that was delivered to her house.
“They’ve got about 50 flower girls,” Proctor joked.
Barker swears he’s not nervous.
“Everybody has been fantastic, they really have,” Barker said. “Our children – she has a son and daughter and I have a son and daughter – and they’re all tickled to death. They could see we needed somebody.”
The couple doesn’t plan on registering anywhere, in fact, it might be the first wedding in history where guests receive all of the gifts.
The bride and groom are currently trying to downsize their respective cottages so that they may move in with each other after the wedding.
Once the nuptials are complete the two will fly down to Ft. Lauderdale to embark on a Caribbean cruise honeymoon.
But do the two have any skinny-dipping plans?
“I don’t know about that yet,” the 87-year-old Barker laughed. “Age is funny.”
Both are excited for the date to finally get here later this month.
They say planning – even a simple ceremony – doesn’t get any easier the second time around.
“Sometimes I wonder how we’re going to get through this. It’s not the marrying him (part) it’s about all the stuff you have to go through,” Trumbly said.
Trumbly has always been sort of a mother-figure for Proctor so it was Proctor who sat the couple down early just to make sure they had their bases covered.
The two had already discussed it with their respective families. A Sunday compromise was struck, with the couple attending Trumbly’s Catholic mass on Saturday nights and Barker’s Baptist church on Sundays.
Barker says he may be getting the better end of the deal, especially since Trumbly’s cottage has a washer and dryer as well as a covered carport for his Lincoln.
“There’s a lot of advantages for me, I don’t know about her,” he teased.
But the groom has shown he may be handy in the kitchen.
“I fixed her a bacon and tomato sandwich last night,” he said with pride. “Someone gave us a real nice tomato out of the garden and we stole some bread and bacon out of the kitchen and I cooked it in my room.”
It’s moments like those both were missing.
And they never expected to find them again.
“This is a marvelous place here. Everybody here is family,” Barker said.

Ms. Senior America Pageant Celebrates Beauty and Strength

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Dawn Anita Plumlee walks the stage as newly crowned Ms. Oklahoma Senior America 2017, crowned during the annual pageant, held at Oklahoma Christian University.
Dawn Anita Plumlee walks the stage as newly crowned Ms. Oklahoma Senior America 2017, crowned during the annual pageant, held at Oklahoma Christian University.

Dawn Anita Plumlee Named 2017 Winner

story and photos by Traci Chapman

The Ms. Oklahoma Senior America Pageant isn’t just about beauty or talent, but a celebration of women who have lived a live full of love and meaning, who exemplify all that seniors can be and all they can offer – and the women who this year competed for the crown showed there are no limits for those who are willing to step beyond their daily confines.
“Life is a gift – open your heart and your mind to all life has to offer,” Dawn Anita Plumlee said.
Plumlee received another gift during the July 29 pageant, as the Velma, OK country singer and songwriter was named Ms. Oklahoma Senior America for 2017.
“I am so honored, I’m so happy and I look at my fellow contestants and that makes me feel even more special, because they are such wonderful women,” Plumlee said after the event. “They are all queens to me.”
Plumlee was one of nine contestants who competed this year for the honor, someone who is not new to the pageant – she was named first runner up in both 2012 and 2013. Flipping through the photos of past Oklahoma events, it was clear she was not alone.
“This event is something that brings out the best in everyone who takes part in it,” Plumlee said. “It’s an experience none of us ever forget and it really can be a life-changer, not only for the one who walks away with that crown – that’s the reason why so many of us stay active in the organization.”
The contestants
Ms. Oklahoma Senior America 2017 – Dawn Anita Plumlee
Dawn Anita Plumlee said she has “just always been a singer,” someone who not only draws on her country roots but also celebrates them. That was on show during Plumlee’s talent entry, her rendition of “Love Sick Blues.”
Plumlee life has always centered around music – after her family, she said. After turning down an RCA record contract when her children were small, she continued her work in the music industry on a smaller scale until they were grown; she has had three charted country records and has won several songwriting and performance awards, including Oklahoma Opry’s Female Vocalist and Entertainer of the Year. The new queen also wrote “Gift of Life,” a song aimed at promoting organ donation.
Another of Plumlee’s passions is horses, and she has won several shows, as well as embarking on a horseback journey from Oklahoma to Nashville with her husband of 59 years, Jerry.
First Runner-Up – Susannah “Sam” Koebrick
Susannah “Sam” Koebrick was the first female masonry instructor to work in the Oklahoma Career Tech System, instrumental in both designing and promoting the Oklahoma State & Education Employees’ Insurance Program.
A Bethany resident, Koebrick performs in Oklahoma Seniors’ Cabaret and El Reno Community Theater, as well as with her husband, Richard, in a variety of venues across the state.
“Keep an active mind, an active body, smile, have a sense of humor and treat everyone as you wish to be treated,” Koebrick said.
Second Runner-Up – Kathryn Gordon
Kathryn Gordon has had a varied career – as a typesetter, legal secretary, teacher, business owner and more. But, at age 62, Gordon decided to make a change, graduating from cosmetology school and now working as a hairstylist and nail technician.
Gordon, who graduated from University of Central Oklahoma and University of Oklahoma, was also a gymnast in the 1950s and 1960s as a member of the state’s only gymnastics team, Oklahoma Twisters. She won Junior Olympic Tumbling state and national honors, was a member of the 1966 Pan American Gymnastic Team and a 1968 Olympic gymnast. Gordon, who donates time helping children involved in gymnastics, showed her skills during her tap dancing talent entry, which included a cartwheel and handstand.
“Every day is an adventure,” Gordon said. “Every day I get up and put on my medals – humility, forgiveness, joy, faith and trust – and go out into the world, looking for the best in everyone I meet.”
Third Runner-Up – Carla Joy
Carla Joy is also an entertainer, something she started at age three when her parents put her onstage during a movie house intermission to sing. Performing this year at the Oklahoma Senior Follies, Joy also sings for fundraisers and at nursing homes and helped Las Vegas’ Harrah’s Casino begin a trio of karaoke shows.
Joy worked for 38 years in real estate, beauty and fashion and continues her interest in those endeavors, always trying to encourage others, she said.
“Get up, get dressed, show up and never give up,” Joy said.
Marilynn Blackmon
Marilynn Blackmom said that in a sense her life began at 60 – she went back to college, becoming certified in workforce training and development and working as an adjunct instructor at Eastfield College, located in Mesquite, Texas.
After battling low self-esteem for many years, Blackmon works to help others, teaching classes and obtaining her certification as a master coach in self-esteem elevation for adults and children. Her journey conquering self-esteem issues also led Blackmon to found her own business, “Fly Without Baggage.”
“Soaring, falling, daring to soar again anyway to soar and soar again,” she said.
Boonie Mason
Boonie Mason’s life changed in 1980 with a Multiple Sclerosis diagnosis – a situation she used to help others as she became peer counselor and Co-Chairman for an Oklahoma City MS support group. In 2004, Mason was awarded MS Society’s chapter President’s Award for Volunteer of the Year. She said those with MS and other similar diseases should never give up, showing her determination by performing a tap dancing routine during the pageant’s talent portion, despite walking with a cane.
Mason attended Oklahoma State University and worked as Yukon Chamber of Commerce manager, First National Bank public relations officer and an Oklahoma City doctor’s office manager.
“Remember how short life is – and for my MS friends, I want to let them know that life is not over,” Mason said.
Barbara McMullin
Barbara McMullin is the mother of five grown children, two of them deaf. That led McMullin to move her family to Oklahoma City so the two – Pam and Jeff – could attend OU Medical Center’s John Key Speech and Hearing Center.
McMullin worked and traveled overseas for many years and enjoys volunteer work and genealogy.
“I challenge myself today and tomorrow is my reward,” she said.
Sharon Moore
Born into a family of 11 children, Sharon Moore said faith and family have remained her focus throughout her life. At 69, she retired from a 31-year career at Legal Shield, and Moore said she decided to enter the pageant to find a new lease on life after the recent death of her husband.
Moore helped raise eight children, and now has 15 grandchildren and seven great grandchildren. She plays piano, sings and dances and enjoys writing poetry and journaling.
“Never stop learning – give your compassion and grace,” Moore said.
Gayle Orf
At 69, Gayle Orf took up the ukulele, a skill she exhibited during her talent performance of her own composition, “Lola La Spud.” That spirit of never slowing down helped land Orf a recent contract to do print modeling with a national agency; she teaches healthy living and entertains patients at a local cancer hospital and at senior venues.
Orf became the guardian and surrogate mother – at 60 – to a nine-year-old girl living in a children’s home after the death of her mother. Today, that daughter is a self-supporting college student.
“Life is to be enjoyed,” Orf said.
The Pageant
Ms. Senior America was founded in 1971 by Al Mott, who first started the contest in a New Jersey nursing home. At the time, a few contestants took part; the non-profit foundation now gathers hundreds of seniors annually to take part in pageants across the country, as well as the national pageant, held each October.
Before the day of the pageant, judges conduct interviews with each contestant. The event features talent and evening gown components, as well as the chance to share a 30-second “Philosophy of Life” with the audience.
“This is simply a celebration of beauty and accomplishment, as with any beauty pageant – but it’s a way to show that life is only beginning at 60,” Ms. Senior Oklahoma Foundation Administrator Ladell Maxwell said. “These ladies really do embody our philosophy of grace.”

Lifestyle Options Continue to Change

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Article by Nikki Buckelew, Buckelew Realty Group’s Mature Moves Division with Keller Williams Realty. www.okcmaturemoves.com

 

In generations past, there simply weren’t many options when it came to where one would live out their retirement years. In fact, there were basically three choices: 1) Stay put in your own home, 2) live with your kids, or 3) move to a nursing home when “it was time.”
The landscape has certainly changed significantly in the last decade. Not only are people living longer, but retirees have more options than ever before as it relates to housing options. So many choices it can make your head spin!
Fewer people as of late are opting to stay in a home that is too large, too costly, or losing value due to neighborhood decline. Even fewer are electing to move in with their adult children. More and more seniors are taking a proactive approach concerning their retirement lifestyle, with the trend toward community living designed to support and encourage the independent lifestyle they value.
The new normal
Included in the available stock of senior living options are upscale luxury apartments catering to the active 55 and older crowd, as well as all-inclusive resort style properties resembling a cross between 5-star hotels and country clubs. Private residences including duplexes, cottages, garden homes, and villas are also on the rise, boasting neighborhood club houses with fitness and media rooms, walking paths, organized activities and trips, and more. All this and they even take care of your yard and maintenance.
For those needing a bit slower pace and maybe even a little help from time to time, there are supportive housing communities designed to help people remain autonomous and independent by providing non-medical assistance. Key attractors to these communities include 2-3 prepared meals a day, housekeeping services, rides to the doctor and local retail and grocery stores, and 24-hour concierge access. When needed, many of these communities can provide or arrange for assistance with dressing, bathing, and medications.
Of course there are still the communities equipped to care for those with chronic medical or mental illnesses or degenerative diseases. Unlike the independent and assisted living communities mentioned above, however, these longterm care facilities are ‘chosen’ by default only after other options have been ruled out.
Comparing options can be complicated
With all these options, especially the all-inclusive ones, the challenge is figuring out which communities have what you are looking for. More importantly, what services are offered and what the fees include. Each development has varied unit sizes and meal options, as well as ever-changing, healthcare options and activity programming.
Ownership may belong to a for-profit enterprise or operated by a not-for-profit organization. Some are affiliated with churches, universities, and local municipalities and each has it’s own unique philosophy of property management.
Taking proactive steps
The key to finding the right fit is investigating the various options available well in advance – long before you are ready to make a change. By doing so, you remain in the driver’s seat when it comes to your lifestyle choices, rather than leaving it to chance (or up to your kids).
Fortunately, senior adults have a variety of free educational opportunities in the metro area to choose from when it comes to learning the ins and outs of 55+ living options. Some events are hosted by senior living communities who offer optional campus tours directly following the educational program and others are held in event centers. The goal of these organizations and associated expert speakers is to help older adults and their trusted advisors navigate the sea of information related to senior living.

Below is a list of a few upcoming events (advanced registration required):

Candid Conversations: Senior Living Options – Epworth Villa Retirement Community – August 15th at 10am RSVP: 405-752-1200
How to Pay for Senior Living – Spanish Cove Retirement Village – August 31st at 10am RSVP: 405-354-5906
The Truth About Senior Living – OptionsMAPS3 Health & Wellness Center – September 14th at 10am & 2pm RSVP: 405-563-7501
Getting Real About Real Estate after Retirement – Concordia Life Care Community – October 24th at 2:30pm RSVP: 405-437-1414