Story by Darl Devault, Feature Writer

COVID-19 patients without serious symptoms requiring hospitalization and high flow oxygen or mechanical ventilation may receive Eli Lilly’s bamlanivimab and Regeneron’s casirivimab / imdevimab COVID-19 infusion therapies at the Oklahoma COVID Care Center in Edmond. Patients should be infused within 10 days of onset of any symptoms.
The single intravenous (IV) infusion therapy is U.S. Food and Administration authorized for the treatment of mild to moderate coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). The FDA Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) was issued to Regeneron Pharmaceuticals Inc. November. 21, 2020
A member of the American Association of Nurse Practitioners, Kara De La Pena, who owns an Edmond based urgent care mobile practice, is advising COVID-19 patients over the age of 65 to take advantage of this life-saving infusion. With 15 years of experience in healthcare and recently treating COVID-19 patients in the outpatient setting, De La Pena says “I have seen many people, including close family members, almost lose their life to this disease. These infusions, also termed “BAM” infusions, along with mass vaccinations for COVID-19, will hopefully end this pandemic.”
This infusion treatment is for mild to moderate COVID-19 positive testing adults and pediatric patients (12 years of age or older weighing at least 88 pounds) who are at high risk for progressing to severe COVID-19. This includes those who are 65 years of age or older or who have certain chronic medical conditions.
This is the same therapy first described in the media as a Regeneron cocktail when given to former President Donald Trump in early October under an emergency, single-person authorization. Infectious diseases expert Anthony Fauci, M.D., has said of Regeneron’s experimental antibody cocktail: “There is a reasonably good chance in fact it made (President Donald Trump) much better.”
These two therapies infuse monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) intended to directly neutralize the COVID-19 virus and prevent progression of the disease.
“The FDA Authorizes these monoclonal antibody therapies that may help outpatients avoid hospitalization and alleviate the burden on our health care system,” said FDA Commissioner Stephen M. Hahn, M.D. “As part of our Coronavirus Treatment Acceleration Program, the FDA uses every possible pathway to make new treatments available to patients as quickly as possible while continuing to study the safety and effectiveness of these treatments.”
High risk is defined as COVID-19 testing patients who meet at least one of the following criteria:
* Have a body mass index (BMI) over 35.
* Have chronic kidney disease.
* Have diabetes.
* Have immunosuppressive disease.
* Are currently receiving immunosuppressive treatment.
* Are over 65 years of age.
* Are over 55 years of age AND have:
* cardiovascular disease, OR * hypertension, OR * chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder/other chronic respiratory disease
* Are 12-17 years of age AND have: * BMI over 85th percentile for their age and gender based on CDC growth charts, OR * sickle cell disease, OR * congenital or acquired heart disease, OR * neurodevelopmental disorders, OR * medical-related technological dependence, OR * asthma, reactive airway, or other chronic respiratory disease that requires daily medication for control
For more info call 405-726-9859 to speak to an infusion coordinator or visit www.okcovidcare.com
The scheduling team coordinates convenient infusion appointment times.
Please note hydrating 2-3 days before a scheduled infusion appointment is encouraged to aid with the infusion treatment.
Patients begin their infusion day by completing a one-page health assessment so infusion nurses can identify current medications and recent health events. The nurses take patient vital signs and review overall health condition. Patients should make the infusion team aware of any recent surgery, scheduled surgery, or infections, as this could interfere with that day’s scheduled treatment.
Once all assessments and reviews are completed, the infusion nurse inserts a small IV needle into the hand or arm. Depending on the medication therapy selected for treatment, infusion times will vary from 30 minutes to six hours; however, most medications are administered in two hours or less.
Every patient is closely monitored from start to finish. Most patients feel normal after their infusion and can resume their daily activities, while others experience acute fatigue. The Oklahoma Covid Care Center strongly encourages patients to consider having transportation available to them.
In a clinical trial of patients with COVID-19, casirivimab and imdevimab, administered together, were shown to reduce COVID-19-related hospitalization or emergency room visits in patients at high risk for disease progression within 28 days after treatment when compared to placebo.
Monoclonal antibodies are laboratory-made proteins that mimic the immune system’s ability to fight off harmful pathogens such as viruses. Casirivimab and imdevimab are monoclonal antibodies specifically directed against the spike protein of SARS-CoV-2, designed to block the virus’ attachment and entry into human cells.
“The emergency authorization of these monoclonal antibodies administered together offers health care providers another tool in combating the pandemic,” said Patrizia Cavazzoni, M.D., acting director of the FDA’s Center for Drug Evaluation and Research.
The issuance of an EUA is different than FDA approval. In determining whether to issue an EUA, the FDA evaluates the totality of available scientific evidence and carefully balances any known or potential risks with any known or potential benefits of the product for use during an emergency.
When used to treat COVID-19 for the authorized population, the known and potential benefits of these antibodies outweigh the known and potential risks. There are no adequate, approved and available alternative treatments for the authorized population.
“I get emotional thinking about these infusions. I am overjoyed we have a tool in helping prevent COVID-19 from replicating and causing more harm in the body. I wish we had this tool sooner to help save some of the 400,000 Americans we have lost already, 3,293 of those being Oklahomans,” De La Pena said.
As an advanced practice registered nurse her certifications in advanced cardiac life support, basic life support, and pediatric advanced life support allow her to fully evaluate her senior patient’s situations. She has been nursing COVID-19 outpatients since the beginning of the pandemic as the owner of NP 2 Go.
“Many people qualify for the infusion.” De La Pena said. “If they have questions, they may call the center to confirm their qualification. There is another infusion clinic at St. Mary’s Regional Hospital in Enid (patients just need a referral from their provider). Oklahoma ER and Hospital in Edmond expects to add the infusion services soon.”
Fact sheets about using casirivimab and imdevimab administered together in treating COVID-19 are available to patients. These fact sheets include dosing instructions, potential side effects and drug interactions. Possible side effects include anaphylaxis and infusion-related reactions, fever, chills, hives, itching and flushing.

By Christina Sibley Lic. Insurance Producer, Bachelor of Science Health Studies/Gerontology.

Now that Fall is behind us and visions of Spring are ahead, why are we still talking about Medicare enrollment? What many people don’t know is that there are many enrollment periods to Medicare and special circumstances around those periods.
Why is this important? There may be several reasons someone wishes to make a change outside of the October 15th – December 7th annual open enrollment period. Perhaps the options they currently have are just too expensive, or they need an option with different or more benefits. Maybe there have been life changes like a move, change in finances, change in other health insurance coverage, or newly diagnosed health problem.
Here are a few common additional enrollment periods, that may apply. These are not the entire list so if these don’t apply, or you aren’t sure, you can always ask your Medicare broker to see if you may qualify for one or visit Medicare.gov for more information.

January through March- Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment

· Those already on a Medicare Advantage (part C) plan can make one plan change to another Medicare Advantage plan or go to original Medicare and add a drug plan. The plan changes are usually effective the first day of the following month.
· It’s important to remember that this period can’t be used to go from original Medicare to a Medicare advantage plan or to change from a drug plan to another drug plan BUT There may be other special election periods that can be used for that.

January through September- Low Income Subsidy/Dual (Medicare/Medicaid) eligibility

· If you are currently qualified for Extra Help or Medicaid health coverage, become newly eligible, or lose your qualification for Extra Help or Medicaid you may make a change. Those currently qualified may make one change per quarter for the first three quarters of the year.
· Extra Help is a program that helps pay prescription drug premiums and/or prescription costs for those who meet the income and resources requirements. Even if your income is too high for food assistance or Medicaid, you may still qualify for Extra Help. One of the most beneficial aspects of Extra Help is it may keep qualified people out of the dreaded coverage gap or “donut hole” and can lower drug copays. Apply through Social Security or your Medicare broker may be willing to help you.
Special enrollment and special needs plans based on health conditions.

Special enrollment and special needs plans based on health conditions.
· Some areas of Oklahoma may have “special needs plans” based on chronic health conditions, such as heart disease or diabetes.
· Enrollment in these plans, if you qualify, is open through the year. Enrollment is based solely on existence of a qualifying health condition, not income. Other special needs plans, not based on health conditions, may be available and based on enrollment in both Medicare and Medicaid.

Special Election Period due to declared disaster

· If you missed an election period that you otherwise qualified for due to a declared disaster in your area (like one of our famous Oklahoma ice storms, floods, and/or tornados) there may be an additional election period granted for a specific amount of time. These usually apply to valid election periods for those new to Medicare or those already enrolled in Medicare.

Special Election period- you moved

· If you move out of state, a service area (usually based on counties), or there’s a new plan available to you because you moved, even if your plan is still available, you may make a change and do not have to wait until October 15th. This also applies if you recently moved back to the US, you moved into or out of an institution (like a skilled nursing or long-term care facility), or you were released from jail.
· Time to pick a new plan may be limited to just 2 months, so be sure to review your options and change right away.

You lost other insurance coverage or have the chance to get other insurance coverage such as:

· Employer coverage, Medicaid, Program for All Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE), or Other credible coverage (like VA or Tricare). Specific rules may apply. Not all other coverage is considered “credible”, especially if you wish to delay or stop part B enrollment. Make sure to do thorough research to avoid penalties for late enrollment or non-coverage.

These are just some examples of additional enrollment periods and special circumstances that may apply to you. The Medicare website is always the best source of information but feel free to reach out to your broker as well if you have questions or visit our Resource Guide at www.okveterannews.com – see Medicare Brokers.

Resident benefit from pen pal program

by James Coburn, Staff Writer

A tremendous response began last fall when Kellie Prather called for pen pals for the residents of Brookwood Skilled Nursing & Therapy on Facebook. Compassion took the form of an overwhelming bevy of letters and cards that continues being sent to residents.
Everyone has returned to the lost art of writing, Prather said. A whole new door opened both for the residents and the pen pals themselves.
“I didn’t realize it was going to go viral,” said Prather, the activities director for Brookwood Skilled Nursing & Therapy in Oklahoma City. “It went viral — it went all across the United States. It was crazy. I’m telling you, we heard from people all over Oklahoma from towns I had no idea existed.”
Letters came from New York, Illinois, Alabama, Kentucky, Arizona, and Arkansas. At one point 300 letters streamed to the residents all at once. Since the end of September, residents posted cards behind their beds and doors in appreciation. One resident has 50 cards from people writing they want to be a pen pal. The nursing staff is amazed at the difference made in the residents’ lives and take part in helping elders decorate their rooms with cards. Staff and residents spend time talking about the pen pals. Nurses and CNAs read the letters and cards to residents who are challenged with their vision.
“I’ve got a pen pal team that’s called the Pen Pal Club,” said Prather, who has served at Brookwood since March and has been with the parent company Grace Living Centers for 12 years.
Residents involved in the pen pal program respond to the letters. Prather said she has never seen such a transformation in the residents who had been mulling over days of depression and routines. Letters come in for the bedridden residents as well. And Prather and her assistants write letter on behalf of those residents who are unable to do so.
“There’s just been such a glow,” she said of the letters from school children, high schoolers, college students, and others who write. Children are given a chance to learn how to write a letter and hear the experiences from elders.
Another program, this time with Zoom is being initiated.
“It’s awesome. They have so much purpose now. My activity room is almost like a mailroom where there’s a working station, a station where letters need to be mailed off, letters that need to be answered,” Prather said.
It’s heard repeatedly that America is divided over politics, but the pen pal program at Brookwood spells unity among people with different backgrounds with the common concern for the welfare of humanity.
“Isn’t it beautiful?” Prather said. “It makes me happy to know that we’re still together. When we get knocked down, we still help each other get back up. And it also makes me really happy that we’re reaching out for our elderly, because they get to be the forgotten society too often.”
Housewives and husbands have been sending not only photographs of themselves, but photographs of their dogs and the splendor of nature throughout the year.
“Everything is so beautiful, and it makes me so proud to be an American. It makes me so happy to know with all the muddy waters of political life, that we’re able to still pay it forward — our kindness to others.”
Residents who have been in lockdown without the ability to see family members or loved ones during the COVID-19 pandemic have their lives touched by strangers who become pen pal friends with many pointes of discussion to stimulate the day with positive messages, Prather said.
“It makes them feel alive; it makes them feel they have a purpose and makes them feel like they’re loved. And it makes them feel like they can extend themselves out to somebody else as well. So, it’s a win, win, win situation.”
The backdrop of Brookwood encompasses Bridges Health, a separate wing for skilled nursing and rehabilitation. Residents are able to focus on their rehab in an encouraging setting.
“We’ve got some excellent nurses in there, case managers and the therapy department is just wonderful,” Prather said. “And everybody works hard around the clock to make sure these residents are getting the skill nursing they need.”
The long-term facility is separate so not to interrupt ongoing therapy. Vending machine carts come through the rooms on a regular basis since vendors do not enter the building during the pandemic.
“We provide room activities as well as hall activities, and group activities when we’re able to,” she said.
Regulated outdoor visits may be scheduled as well as window visits.
“We’ve been pretty fortunate to keep the wheels rolling.”

Photography and Text by Terry “Travels with Terry” Zinn [email protected]

While you are taking advantage pf my previous months articles on Kansas, might as well move on to Kansas City.
Oscar Hammerstein in his lyrics in “ Oklahoma ” said Kansas City was up to date in a humorous way, but it’s even truer today, as Kansas City is updating its attractions with multi-million dollar investments. Culture and cuisine is always high on my travel itineraries and while I only saw a few of Kansas City standouts on this trip, there was still a lot to absorb in Kansas City , Mo. One example is the National World War I Museum at Liberty Memorial with its symbolic see-through bridge over a field of 9,000 poppies, which represents a thousand casualties for each poppy. The exhibits were both diverse and meaningful, and a ride to the top of the memorial with its rewarding panoramic view is worthwhile.
The Belger Arts Center/Red Star Studios is an example of a partnership of industry and a passion in art collecting. Besides its display of contemporary art from the personal collection of businessman and wife, John and Maxine Belger, it is also home to a number of rotating solo exhibitions as well as touring group artists. The converted warehouse at 2100 Walnut St. , offers loft-like exhibition space for a number of large scale art. Dr. Kathleen Desmond of REVIEW magazine said, “The Belger Arts Center is amazing in its presence in Kansas City ; not quite a museum, not a university gallery, not a commercial gallery. It is an entity in itself that defies definition. It is an incredible resource and contribution to the visual arts in Kansas City .”
Another outstanding contribution is the Kemper Museum of Contemporary Art where the building itself, built in 1994 is a work of art. It’s airy and up lifting design, lightens the spirit and is a complement to the upbeat contemporary art it contains. With a new exhibition almost every month it’s easy to see why this is a Kansas City favorite, as is the outstanding museum’s Café Sebastienne. I had a delightful lunch surrounded by a variety of paintings reminiscent of famous artists. My dining companion/painting was a coy girl in a Mary Cassatt style. Relaxing in the café setting or in the light filled and enclosed courtyard is as much a treat as is the contemporary cuisine.
The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art brings together masterful examples from many periods and world cultures. The American Indian gallery, which opened in November of 2009 is extensive – I’m told is one of the largest exhibits devoted to Native Americans. When I visited, there was a collection of Rodin bronzes, with an outstanding impact on this viewer. The museum’s addition of the Bloch building, houses several contemporary collections and illuminates at night. There are several galleries I did not get a chance to see, and there are many concerts and special events held throughout each season.
For upscale dining the menu and service at Pierponts, lived up to its reputation as a “culinary jewel.” Named after railroad baron, J. P. Morgan, Pierpont’s is located appropriately enough in Union Station where other attractions also reside. But don’t let that put you off, as Pierpont’s interior is as elegant and yet friendly as can be. No wonder it was named by the local press “ Best Place to Entertain an out-of-town Guest.” Their prime steaks and seafood along with their wine list, is a must to enjoy.
The Kansas City Ballet has a relatively new permanent home, the Todd Bolender Center for Dance & Creativity, a top notch renovation of an old energy generating factory. Semblances of its history can hardly be seen amid the state of the art rehearsal halls and pragmatic architecture. Unique to this home of ballet is the rehearsal hall where studio productions are held, with seated viewing above the dance floor. Just watching a class of these artistic athletes is inspiring. Also inspiring is the new Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts with its two theatres, and expansive lobbies. An expansive view of downtown Kansas City is available for prime viewing from the lobby at intermission with the innovative slanted panorama glass walls. I vow I will experience a performance there, on my next visit.
I did however sample a delightful menu at the nearby Webster House, where I was also tempted by their antique and modern home décor shop. But the star of this visit was the fried green tomatoes with tomato jam ~ inventive and flavor packed. Webster House, a historic renovated school house, is within walking distance to the Kauffman Center and thus is perfect for pre-theatre dining.
And let’s not forget your home base for a restful retreat from all that Kansas City offers, and that would be the Crowne Plaza Kansas City located amid all the action downtown. Comfortable, convenient and affordable, what more could you want except room service and they have that too! Everything is up to date in Kansas City.
For more information and upcoming schedules:
www.belgerartscenter.org
www.kemperart.org
www.nelson-atkins.org
www.pierponts.com
www.kauffmancenter.org
www.websterhousekc.com
www.crowneplaza.com

Mr. Terry Zinn – Travel Editor
Past President: International Food Wine and Travel Writers Association
3110 N.W. 15 Street – Oklahoma City, OK 73107
https://realtraveladventures.com/?s=terry+zinn
https://realtraveladventures.com/?s=zinn
http://new.okveterannews.com/?s=TERRY+ZINN
www.martinitravels.com

Many people remain reluctant to cover their faces in public. Are masks effective against COVID-19? What’s the status of a vaccine? What’s the science behind it all?
Auburn University at Montgomery (Alabama) biology professor Karen Stine, who specializes in toxicology — the study of poisons — has taught courses in toxicology, pharmacology, cell biology, physiology and environmental science. She offers her thoughts on the ongoing global pandemic, and how the public at large can work to guard against it.
Q. How do vaccines work?
Stine: Vaccines generally contain either an inactivated virus, or isolated bits and pieces of a virus, any of which will hopefully stimulate your immune system to react. This gives you a head start, so if and when you’re actually exposed to the virus your immune system can inactivate it before it makes you sick. But immune responses usually take some time to ramp up to full steam.
Q. Why don’t we have a vaccine for COVID-19 yet?
Stine: Right now, there are multiple organizations working on different viral bits and pieces, hoping to find the right combination that can get the immune system geared up against COVID-19. This takes time, though, as the strategies first have to be tested in the lab, and then in uninfected people to make sure the vaccine is safe and that indicators of effectiveness (usually antibodies) have been produced in the test subjects. Finally, large scale tests for effectiveness (usually involving thousands of people) have to take place. Only then will the vaccine be approved for the general public.many people remain reluctant to cover their faces in public. Are masks effective against COVID-19? What’s the status of a vaccine? What’s the science behind it all?
Auburn University at Montgomery biology professor Karen Stine, who specializes in toxicology — the study of poisons — has taught courses in toxicology, pharmacology, cell biology, physiology and environmental science. She offers her thoughts on the ongoing global pandemic, and how the public at large can work to guard against it.
Q. How do vaccines work?
Stine: Vaccines generally contain either an inactivated virus, or isolated bits and pieces of a virus, any of which will hopefully stimulate your immune system to react. This gives you a head start, so if and when you’re actually exposed to the virus your immune system can inactivate it before it makes you sick. But immune responses usually take some time to ramp up to full steam.
Q. Will a vaccine produce long-lasting immunity against COVID-19?
Stine: No one knows the answer to that yet. For some viruses (the virus that causes measles, for example), one or two doses of a vaccine can produce immunity that appears to last throughout life. For other viruses (influenza viruses, for example), frequent changes in the virus along with gradually declining immunity means that people need to be re-vaccinated annually.
Q. Do masks really help prevent the spread of COVID-19?
Stine: It’s a fair question. Early on, scientists and doctors were not encouraging (and in fact were discouraging) mask use. But as evidence mounted, we learned from it—that’s how science works—and now, the scientific and medical advice has changed. The consensus now is that wearing a mask in public can greatly reduce transmission of the COVID-19 virus.
Q. What has the science shown the biomedical community that makes them support this?
Stine: A few facts have become clear over the last months. People can spread the virus without showing symptoms. We also know the virus is predominantly spread through respiratory droplets and that cloth masks are effective at blocking the release of respiratory droplets by infected people. Some of this evidence is from other viruses but should generalize to COVID-19.
Q. So what conclusion can be drawn from that evidence?
Stine: If everyone wears masks, which block respiratory droplets, transmission of the virus should be greatly reduced.
Q. But does this work in the real world?
Stine: Evidence now indicates that masks, along with other measures, can indeed make a difference. Also, strong anecdotal evidence from countries in both Asia and Europe that have mandated masks in public lends support to the premise that masks can be an effective tool in dramatically reducing coronavirus transmission.
Q. Should everyone wear a mask in public?
Stine: For a very small segment of the population, wearing a mask is not medically recommended. For the rest of us, it is not only safe but is also the most effective thing we can do to make others feel safe, as well. And remember, workers in medical and other fields have always worn them!
Q. But some people feel wearing a mask infringes on their freedom. How do you convince these people to wear masks?
Stine: Perhaps it does a bit. But if mild inconvenience outweighs civic responsibility for you in a time of national crisis — and over 100,000 deaths nationwide certainly qualifies as a crisis — are you comfortable with what that says about your values?
Q. So if you could speak directly to people who are reluctant to wear a mask in public, what would you say to them?
Stine: The bottom line is that strong scientific evidence indicates that if everyone wears a mask in public (and maintains appropriate social distancing), rates of COVID-19 infection will drop, and we can all enjoy much safer freedom of movement as we go about our daily lives. Also, those still isolated at home can more safely emerge and help boost our struggling economy. It’s a win for everyone. So, wear a mask. Please. Lives and livelihoods depend on it.

By Nick Thomas

Raised in a rough Harlem neighborhood in the 40s and 50s, childhood proved challenging for Hank Garrett.
“We lived in the slums and I’d walk into the kitchen in the mornings to find the floor covered with roaches,” said Garrett from his home in California. “And I still remember waking up one day with a weight on my chest – it was a rat.”
As outlined in his 2020 autobiography, “From Harlem Hoodlum to Hollywood Heavyweight,” other hardships dogged young Hank throughout his troubled teen years.
“I saw fights, stabbings, and shootings – it was a daily situation,” recalled Garrett. But he endured, including a later near fatal car accident, eventually turning his life around to focus on physical fitness and becoming a professional wrestler before turning to acting.
During a brief time on the New York police force, Garratt auditioned for “Car 54, Where Are You?” a new television comedy series that debuted in 1961.
“When I told my commanding officer I had a chance to work on a television series, he looked at me and said, ‘tough decision isn’t it Hank – to become a television star or stay a cop in New York!” Garrett recalled. “‘Car 54’ opened up an acting career for me.”
Series creator Nat Hiken hired Garrett as Officer Ed Nicholson. “So I went from real cop to reel cop!” said Garrett.
The show also starred Fred (later ‘Herman Munster’) Gwynne and Joe E. Ross who were partners in the series.
“Fred was very soft-spoken and truly a gentleman who also wrote and illustrated children’s books,” he said. “He lost a child who drowned and we were shooting when the news came. We were all devastated and shared his pain.”
As for Ross, ‘what a character,” said Garrett with a laugh. “Joe would bring in ladies of the evening and at one point asked if one could be put on the payroll as his acting coach! The producers didn’t go for it. And, of course, he could never remember his lines and that’s why he always went ‘ooh! ooh!’ until the words came to him.”
Numerous other roles came Garrett’s way, often being cast as the bad guy opposite some of Hollywood’s biggest names including Kirk Douglas in “A Lovely Way to Die” (1968) where a stray punch from Douglas gave Garrett a bloody nose. But Hank got even with the A-lister crowd several years later in a memorably violent fight scene in “Three Days of the Condor” breaking Robert Redford’s nose.
Playing the ‘heavy,’ he says, wasn’t a stretch given his tough childhood. Nor did he forget his troubled past and has worked tirelessly for years with prisoners, veterans, and at-risk youth he calls Hankster’s Kids (see www.hankgarrett.biz).
“I hope people will be interested in my book because the proceeds will go to disabled vets and the kids.”
Nick Thomas teaches at Auburn University at Montgomery, Ala., and has written features, columns, and interviews for over 850 newspapers and magazines.

Dear Savvy Senior,

I am interested in getting my mom, who lives alone, a medical alert system with a wearable pendant button that will let her call for help if she falls or has a medical emergency. What can you tell me to help me choose one?

Too Many Choices

Dear Too Many,
A good medical alert system is an effective and affordable tool that can help keep your mom safe and living in her own home longer. But with all the different products and features available today, choosing one can be challenging. Here are some tips that can help.
Three Key Questions
Medical alert systems, which have been around since the 1980s, provide a wearable help button – usually in the form of a neck pendant or wristband – that would put your mom in touch with a dispatcher who could summon emergency help or contact a friend or family member as needed.
To help you narrow down your options and choose a system that best fits your mom’s needs, here are three key questions you’ll need to ask, along with some top-rated companies that offer these products.
1. Does your mom want a home-based or mobile system?
Medical alert systems were originally designed to work inside the home with a landline telephone, which is still an option. But since fewer and fewer households have landlines these days, most companies today also offer home-based systems that work over a cellular network. With these systems, pressing the wearable help button allows you to speak to a dispatcher through a base unit located in your home.
In addition, many companies offer mobile medical alert options, too. You can use these systems at home, but they’ll also allow you to call for help while you’re out and about.
Mobile alerts operate over cellular networks and incorporate GPS technology. They allow you to talk and listen to the operator directly through the pendant button, and because of the GPS, your location would be known in order for help to be sent.
If your mom doesn’t leave the house very often, she may not need a mobile system, but if she is still active, she may want added protection outside the home.
2. Should her system be monitored or not?
The best medical alert systems are monitored, meaning that the help button connects you with a trained operator at a 24/7 dispatching center.
But you also have the option to choose a system that isn’t monitored. With these, when you press the help button, the device automatically dials a friend or family member on your programmed emergency call list.
These products can often be set up to call multiple people and to contact emergency services if you don’t get an answer from someone on your list.
3. Should you add a fall-detection feature?
Most medical alert companies today now offer the option of an automatic fall detection pendant for an additional fee of $10 to $15 per month. These pendants sense falls when they occur and automatically contact the dispatch center, just as they would if you had pressed the call button.
But be aware that this technology isn’t full proof. In some cases, this feature may register something as a fall that isn’t. The alarm might go off if you drop it or momentarily lose your balance but don’t actually land on the ground.
Top Rated Systems
Here are four top companies, rated by Consumer Reports, that offer home and mobile monitored medical alert systems:
* Bay Alarm Medical: Fees range between $20 and $40 per month; BayAlarmMedical.com; 877-522-9633.
* GreatCall’s Lively Mobile Plus: The device costs $50 plus a $25 to $40 monthly service fee; GreatCall.com; 800-650-5921.
* MobileHelp: Monthly fees run $20 to $45; MobileHelp.com; 800-809-9664.
* Phillips Lifeline: $30 to $50/month, plus a onetime device/activation fee of $50 to $100; Lifeline.Philips.com; 855-681-5351.
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.

Experience an unforgettable Valentine date with the Zoo’s socially distant, 21+ event dinner

Your valentine will go wild when you surprise them with a unique dinner experience at the Oklahoma City Zoo and Botanical Garden. The OKC Zoo is hosting two socially distant Valentine’s Dinner events at the Zoo’s Sea Lion Stadium on Saturday, February 13 and Sunday, February 14. Each event will be limited to 122 guests, 21 and older, to ensure adequate social distancing among attendees. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. and the first course is served at 7 p.m.
Participants will enjoy dining under the stars at private, socially distanced tables, arranged throughout the Zoo’s covered Sea Lion Stadium. Heat lamps will be aglow, creating a cozy setting but dress warmly. Each event will feature a three-course dinner provided by Salt and Surrey Catering. Menu options include a strawberry or tossed salad, south of France chicken, grilled pork loin with peach chutney, or portabella mushroom stack and a sweet ending with strawberry or chocolate mousse for dessert. Dinners will feature a full bar with domestic beer, wine, mixed drinks, soda and the event’s specialty cocktail, the Love Potion, available for purchase.
These one-of-kind dinners conclude with a splash as the Zoo’s California sea lions and harbor seals along with their talented caretakers entertain guests with specially-themed presentation, Sealed with a Fish!
“We are excited to expand our adult, 21 and older events and provide Zoo fans with a new, exclusive opportunity to celebrate the Valentine’s holiday in a memorable setting with our beloved wildlife,” said Jenna Dodson, OKC Zoo’s manager of events.
Turn up the romance and complement your lovely dinner with a half-dozen chocolate covered strawberries for an additional $35. Planning to propose this Valentine’s Day? We can help. Purchase a proposal package to present during the Valentine’s Dinner and a Zoo representative will reach out to help you plan the special occasion. For more information, contact [email protected].
Valentine’s Dinner admission is $120 per couple for ZOOfriends members and $140 per couple for nonmembers. During the ticket purchasing process, you will be asked to give your menu choices and a place to request special seating with friends and other couples! Tickets are now available at okczoo.org. Tickets are non-refundable and non-transferable and events will be held rain or shine.
Cupid gives his “seal” of approval with the OKC Zoo’s Valentine’s Dinner! Get your tickets now. The Oklahoma City Zoo is open Thursday through Monday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. with no public access on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. Advance tickets are required for all guests and ZOOfriends members and can be purchased at www.okczoo.org/tickets. Zoo tickets are limited each day to maintain social distancing among guests. Located at the crossroads of I-44 and I-35, the OKC Zoo is a proud member of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, the American Alliance of Museums, Oklahoma City’s Adventure District and an Adventure Road partner. Regular admission is $12 for adults and $9 for children ages 3-11 and seniors ages 65 and over. Children two and under are admitted free.
Stay connected with the Zoo on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and TikTok, and by visiting our blog stories. Zoo fans can support the OKC Zoo by becoming a ZOOfriends member. Starting at $45, memberships can be purchased at ZOOfriends.org and provide access to the OKC Zoo for an entire year plus, additional benefits and discounts. To learn more about Zoo happenings, call (405) 424-3344 or visit okczoo.org.

Once a week, after she brushes her teeth and gets ready to leave for work at the Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation, Cindy Carter sets a 30-minute timer on her phone.
When Carter’s phone buzzes on her drive, it reminds her of the task that now kicks off her week: submitting a saliva sample for OMRF’s weekly employee Covid-19 testing program.
Before leaving her car, Carter opens her testing kit, which OMRF provides to staff members each week. Inside is a cup, a barcoded sample tube, pipette, alcohol wipe and biohazard bag.
“I don’t want to take off my mask indoors, so before I go in, I spit into the cup, put the sample in the tube and throw the waste away in a biohazard receptacle,” said Carter, a lab manager for OMRF’s Cardiovascular Biology Research Program.
Carter then enters OMRF’s Research Tower, where a human resources staffer sits behind plexiglass, ready to collect samples.
“They scan a barcode on my employee badge, then a barcode on the tube,” explained Carter, who joined OMRF in 1996. “Only human resources has those codes. It couldn’t be easier or faster.”
Each Wednesday morning, having collected samples from the 300-plus employees who are onsite each week, foundation technicians analyze the samples. The OMRF-developed process can run 186 samples at a time and examines each sample five times for accuracy. And because of the “specificity” of the test, it can detect amounts of the virus much smaller than those picked up by many commercially available tests.
The lab relays any positive results by Wednesday evening to OMRF Vice President of Human Resources Courtney Greenwood, who contacts those individuals. “If you haven’t heard from me by Thursday morning, you know you’re in the clear,” said Greenwood.
When it came to adding testing to OMRF’s existing pandemic protocols of mask-wearing and physical distancing, Greenwood said OMRF leadership agreed the test had to be fast, free of nose swabs, and affordable for the foundation.
OMRF scientist Joel Guthridge, Ph.D., and his team answered the call, using existing equipment, technology and staff to develop the saliva-based PCR test at a fraction of commercial costs.
“It’s pennies on the dollar comparatively,” said Guthridge. “Our goal is to help people be healthier. We had to achieve that mission on our own turf so that we could forge ahead with our other research.”
More than 4,000 samples have been run since the testing program started in October. To date, they’ve identified 17 employees who were positive for the virus. In the same timeframe, there have been no instances of onsite spread of the virus among employees.
“This testing program has really proven effective at keeping our workforce safe and avoiding outbreaks,” said Greenwood. “It’s helped us maintain our laboratory operations, and we plan to continue the program as long as the virus remains a threat in the community.”
For Carter, OMRF’s weekly testing program, along with a host of other onsite safety protocols, have provided comfort during unsettling times.
I’ve felt really good about coming into work during even the worst stretches of the pandemic,” said Carter. “Having worked here as long as I have, I’m not surprised they went above and beyond to protect us.”

Dear Savvy Senior,

I will turn 65 in a few months and plan to keep working for several more years. I have good health insurance from my employer now. Do I have to sign up for Medicare when I reach 65?

Looking Ahead

Dear Looking,
Whether you need to enroll in Medicare at 65 if you continue to work and have health insurance through your job depends on how large your employer is. The same rules apply if your health insurance comes from your spouse’s job.
But first, let’s review the basics. Remember that original Medicare has two parts: Part A, which provides hospital coverage and is free for most people. And Part B, which covers doctor’s bills, lab tests and outpatient care. Part B also has a monthly premium, which is $148.50 for most beneficiaries in 2021, but is higher for individuals earning above $88,000.
If you’re already receiving Social Security, you’ll automatically be enrolled in parts A and B when you turn 65, and you’ll receive your Medicare card in the mail. It will include instructions to return it if you have work coverage that qualifies you for late enrollment. If you aren’t yet receiving Social Security, you will have to apply, which you can do online at SSA.gov/medicare.
If you plan to continue working past the age of 65 and have health insurance from your job, your first step is to ask your benefits manager or human resources department how your employer insurance works with Medicare. In most cases, you should at least take Medicare Part A because it’s free. (Note: If you’re funding a health savings account you may not want to take Part A because you can’t make contributions after you enroll). But to decide whether to take Part B or not will depend on the size of your employer.
Small Employer
If your current employer has fewer than 20 employees, Medicare will be your primary insurer and you should enroll in Medicare Part B during your initial enrollment period. This is a seven-month period that includes the three months before, the month of, and the three months after your 65th birthday.
If you miss the seven-month sign-up window, you’ll have to wait until the next general enrollment period, which runs from Jan. 1 to March 31 with benefits beginning the following July 1. You’ll also incur a 10 percent penalty for each year you wait beyond your initial enrollment period, which will be tacked on to your monthly Part B premium.
Large Employer
If your employer has 20 or more employees, your employer’s group health plan will be your primary insurer as long as you remain an active employee. If this is the case, you don’t need to enroll in Part B when you turn 65 if you’re satisfied with the coverage you are getting through your job. But if you do decide to enroll in Medicare, it will supplement your employer insurance by paying secondary on all of your claims.
Once your employment or group health coverage ends, you will then have eight months to sign up for Part B without a penalty. This is known as the Special Enrollment Period.
Check Drug Coverage
You also need to verify your prescription drug coverage. Call your benefits manager or insurance company to find out if your employer’s prescription drug coverage is considered “creditable.” If it is, you don’t need to enroll in a Medicare Part D prescription drug plan. If it isn’t, you should purchase a plan (see Medicare.gov/plan-compare) during your initial enrollment period or you’ll incur a premium penalty (1 percent of the average national premium for every month you don’t have coverage) if you enroll later.
If you have more questions or need help, contact your State Health Insurance Assistance Program (see ShiptaCenter.org), which offers free Medicare counseling. Or call the Medicare Rights Center helpline at 800-333-4114.
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.