Senior Citizens’ Events at the Metropolitan Library System

Library Card Sign-Up Month
September is Library Card Sign-Up Month-a perfect time to discover everything your library card offers! Borrow books, access digital resources and more with ease. If you’re a senior 65+ or homebound in Oklahoma County, take advantage of Library by Mail for free book delivery. The library also supports On-Site Libraries at select senior living facilities. Explore audiobooks on CD, Playaway devices, or digitally through hoopla and Libby, or join us for special events with your grandkids like National Grandparents’ Day on September 5 at Almonte Library.

8 Ways to Use Your Library Card Today

• Borrow Books and Media: Access bestsellers, classic books, and other media with no overdue fines. Plus, borrow books from other libraries through interlibrary loans.
• Access Digital Resources: Explore eBooks, audiobooks, movies, and more through Libby, hoopla, and Kanopy. • Use Online Learning Platforms: Enhance your skills with LinkedIn Learning, Mango Languages, and LearningExpress Library. • Discover a New Hobby: Watch instructional videos or take online classes on drawing, painting, sewing, knitting, crochet, quilting, backing, and more with CreativeBug. • Attend Library Programs: Connect with your community by joining craft nights, book clubs, and more. For details on upcoming events, visit metrolibrary.org/events/upcoming. • Get Assistance from Librarians: Request personalized reading lists with Tailored Titles and get help with all your library-related questions. • Explore Your Roots: Research your family history with Ancestry Library Edition, available for in-library use only. • Use Public Computers and Wi-Fi: Access high-speed internet at any library location.

Upcoming Events for Seniors at Metropolitan Library locations

• S.A.L.T. Council (Seniors and Law Enforcement Together) Learn about the latest crimes and scams targeting seniors and how to protect yourself! This program is part of TRIAD, a collaborative effort between the Sheriff’s office, local police departments, and senior citizens to reduce and prevent crimes against seniors. The council meets on the first Monday of every month at the Warr Acres Library. • September 3 at 10 a.m. at Warr Acres Library
• Tai Chi Let’s get stronger together! Tai Chi improves balance, strengthens muscles, and builds confidence to prevent falls. This low-impact, dance-like exercise can be done almost anywhere. Registration required; space is limited. • September 4, 11, 18, 25 at 1 p.m. at Choctaw Library • September 10, 12, 17, 19, 24, 26 at 10 a.m. at Belle Isle Library
• Intermediate Tai Chi Intermediate Tai Chi helps improve mind, body, and spirit through slow, continuous movements. Prior Tai Chi experience is recommended. The class meets Tuesdays and Thursdays for six weeks. Register online or in the library. Explore Tai Chi books and videos during your visit! • September 3, 5, 10, 12, 17, 19, 24, 26 at 10:15 a.m. at Southern Oaks Library
• Total Wellness A free program by the Oklahoma City-County Health Department to help adults prevent diabetes and heart disease through weight loss and increased activity.
• September 18, 25 at 5:15 p.m. at Northwest Library • September 19, 26 at 9:30 a.m. at Del City Library • September 19, 26 at 4:30 p.m. at Almonte Library
• Stay Active & Independent for Life (SAIL) A program designed to increase muscle strength, range of motion, and improve daily living activities, including chair exercises.
• September 4, 9, 11, 16, 18, 23, 25 at 10 a.m. at The Village Library • September 4, 11, 18, 25 at 10 a.m. at Choctaw Library
• Alzheimer’s Support Group The Alzheimer’s Association Caregiver Support Group provides a supportive community for caregivers, offering comfort, practical advice, and a safe space to share experiences. • September 24 at 6 p.m. at Bethany Library
About the Metropolitan Library System:
The Metropolitan Library System serves Oklahoma County’s 800,000 residents across its 19 locations, welcoming over 5.4 million visits annually with more than 10 million checkouts. Explore digital resources available 24/7 at https://www.metrolibrary.org.

By Marise Boehs

INSPIRE was giving free blood pressure checks.

Cody Metscher, Clinical Liason, said INSPIRE comes monthly to HLN to give No Charge blood pressure checks to persons wanting them.

For more information:
www.inspirehospital.com

Liz Barfield, Founder, Better Bites, was in the Center’s kitchen
preparing tasty snacks.

Better Bites offers locally made, well-balanced individually portioned meals to fit any lifestyle and nutritional goals.

www.betterbitesbylizb.com

Mark Cope, Nerve Renewal, talks to attendees about neuropathy pain.

Nerve Renewal offers long-term relief from chronic nerve pain and numbness with advanced therapy for peripheral, diabetic, and chemotherapy-induced neuropathy pain.

Nerve Renewal has offices across the Metro as well as in Shawnee, Stillwater and Broken Arrow.

To find a Nerve Renewal office near you and for more information about threatments available, check out their website at www.nerverenewalnow.com

Ryan Adkins, Nutritional Health Coach, Natural Grocers, talks with an attendee. Natural Grocers offers free Nutritional Health Coaching Sessions. For more information or to find a store near you, log on to www.naturalgrocers.com

Lezley Bell, CaptionCall, talks with attendees about the service they offer – a phone that displays large, easy-to-read text that automatically captions your conversation. The sevice and phone are no cost to you. For more information, email Lezley at [email protected] or call her at 580-302-4283.

ABOUT HEALTHY LIVING NORMAN
The mission of Healthy Living Norman is to promote the health and well-being of adults aged 50 and older by providing opportunities for physical activity, social engagement, and lifelong learning at the Adult Wellness and Education Center.

CENTER AMENITIES
Warm Indoor Saltwater Pool
Demonstration Kitchen
Fitness Center
Land and Water Fitness Classes
Health Screenings
Seminars and Events
Billiards
Indoor Walking Track
Outdoor Pickleball Courts
Fireplace and Lounge Area
Small Gathering Spaces
Art and Educational Classes

CLASSES  The center offers a variety of art and craft classes.

Fitness classes include water exercise as well as land exercises like yoga, pilates, tia chi, aerobics and line dancing or belly dancing.

Check out the entire list and  schedule of classes at www.healthylivingnorman.com

Story and Photo by Vickie Jenkins, Staff Writer

Did someone mention talent? There’s certainly no shortage in Oklahoma, especially among the seniors involved in the Oklahoma Seniors’ Cabaret. These gifted individuals bring a wealth of experience to the stage, guided by the dedicated and dynamic Director, Joan Colee, who has lived an incredible, active and remarkable life. Born in Litchfield, Illinois, Joan discovered her passion for singing at a very young age. Reflecting on her early years, Joan fondly recalls, “I fell in love with singing when I was just eight years old. One day, my dad came home and heard me singing my heart out while I was in the bathtub. He couldn’t believe how much I was pouring my soul into those songs.” Joan has been singing ever since that memorable moment, her love for music growing stronger over the years. Her journey marked a true dedication to her talents inspiring countless others to find their own voices and share them with the world. Joan’s story is a testament to the power of passion and the joy that comes from embracing one’s talent.
Joan’s academic achievements are as remarkable as her professional ones. She holds a Bachelors of Music and a Masters in Performing Arts from Oklahoma City University, highlighting her dedication to her education and talent.
Joan spent an impressive 20 years in Hollywood/Los Angeles where she made a significant impact on the entertainment industry from her Brentwood Vocal Studio. During her time there, she dedicated herself to teaching many of the new and up-coming entertainers the art of singing. When in college, Joan sang with Bob Hope in a show in Tulsa, Oklahoma. She has performed with Zia Padora, Kaye Ballard, Carol Arthur DeLuise and Adrian Zmed just to mention a few. Joan had quite a few students that went on to shine in the Hollywood spotlight.
Her influence played a significant role in shaping some of the stars we have today. Despite her busy schedule and number of commitments, Joan never stopped pursuing her own passions. At the age of 83, she demonstrated her extraordinary talents on the national television show, America’s Got Talent. Her performance was nothing short of spectacular showcasing her operatic singing skills along side her impressive tap dancing.
Having experience with The Follies in Palm Springs, California was a transforming experience for Joan, inspiring her to create something similar back home. The energy and joy she witnessed among her fellow performers planted the seed for a new idea; founding the Oklahoma Seniors’ Cabaret. Joan recognized that seniors often lacked opportunities to stay active and engaged in their later years, and she saw a chance to make a difference. Her vision was to provide a creative outlet that would not only entertain but also motivate seniors to stay mobile, healthy, and socially connected. Driven by this mission Joan set out to bring her ideal to life. In 2008, she began holding auditions, reaching out to the senior community and inviting them to showcase their talents. The response was overwhelming positive, with many seniors eager to participate and share their love for performing. With a dedicated group of talented individuals, the Oklahoma Seniors’ Cabaret quickly became vibrant and supportive community where seniors could express themselves, form lasting friendships, and continue to live active, fulfilling lives. Joan’s vision has become a reality, creating a space where the performing arts could thrive and seniors could rediscover their passion and purpose.
This group takes great pride in being a nonprofit charitable organization, with all profits from the cabaret donated to the John W. Keys Hearing Center at the University of Oklahoma. These funds are used to help seniors obtain hearing aids, making a meaningful impact in their lives. What makes our group even more special is that none of the Cabaret members are paid for their time and talent. Our members, who are 55 and older, volunteer to sing, dance, act and play instruments purely out of passion and a desire to give back. We offer classes for seniors who are interested in learning to tap, dance, sing, or act, providing an opportunity to stay active, learn new skills and join fellow performers.
We are always looking for enthusiastic seniors who want to keep their energy up and their spirits high. Joining us gives you the opportunity to participate in the performing arts, have fun, adding some pep to your step! Come join the Oklahoma Senior’s Cabaret! Call (405) 840-1242 for more information.

By Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner Glen Mulready

Did you know that life expectancy in the United States for men and women increased by about 10 years between 1960 and 2015? According to the U.S. Census Bureau, individuals over 65 accounted for 16.8% of the country’s total population in 2020. Americans are living longer, and often, older adults rely on long-term care during the later stages of life, which is where long-term care insurance can help. There are several factors to consider when considering long-term care insurance.
What is long-term care insurance?
Contrary to what many might think, long-term care encompasses more than care in a nursing home. This type of care usually includes home care, hospice care, or adult day health care. Long-term care insurance helps to cover the cost of this care. It includes policies providing nursing home care, home health care, community-based care, or any combination. This type of policy does not include coverage provided under comprehensive or major medical policies, Medicare Advantage, or accelerated heath benefit-type products.
How much does long-term care cost?
Long-term care can be expensive. The Cost of Care Survey by Genworth, which breaks down costs for different kinds of care for each state, found that monthly costs in Oklahoma can range from about $1,800 for adult day health care to almost $7,000 for a private room in a nursing home facility. These are median costs for the state and can vary depending on location and level of care.
Does Medicare cover long-term care?
Medicare generally does not cover long-term care. Medicare Part A does cover skilled nursing facility care, nursing home care (as long as custodial care isn’t the only care you need), hospice care and limited home care. You may qualify for long-term care through Medicaid, but you can opt to purchase a long-term policy from a private insurance company.
Do I need long-term care insurance?
When determining your need for long-term care insurance, consider several factors:
• You should consider your personal health situation. If you need assistance with daily activities due to illness or disability, a long-term care policy might benefit you.
• Your age should play a part in your decision, as your need for care increases as you age.
• You should think about your financial situation. Long-term insurance might be a good option if you can afford premiums without financial difficulty.
Which resources are out there?
The National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC) offers a comprehensive shopping guide to long-term care insurance that can answer many questions about this type of insurance. The United States Department of Health and Human Services Administration for Community Living has a Long-Term Care Pathfinder to help locate care and assess needs. As always, if you have any questions about this type of insurance, the Oklahoma Insurance Department (OID) is here to help at 800-522-0071 or https://www.oid.ok.gov.

By Marilyn Olson, VillagesOKC Executive Director

With summer activities winding down, VillagesOKC has announced its fall schedule of workshops at the Mitch Park YMCA in Edmond. The lineup includes monthly Senior LifeSkills Learning sessions along with iPhone Tips & Tricks classes from September through October.
“We are so excited to bring our monthly events back to Edmond,” said VillagesOKC Executive Director Marilyn Olson. “These are programs by local professionals who bring a wealth of knowledge and caring.”
Here are the dates and topics for the Senior LifeSkills Learning workshops which are free and open to all:
• September 18 – Brain Balancing with Chris Coleman, a Senior Wellness Coach.
• October 23 – Think Your Way to Health with Susan Radcliffe, RN.
• November 13 – Understanding Back Pain & Natural Treatment Methods with Dan Prince, DC.
Here are the dates topics for the iPhone Tips & Tricks classes with Jeff Albright, an in-home Apple trainer and troubleshooter. He is an expert with over 17 years of experience. His goal: “Help you gain confidence with your Apple devices, keep your kids safe online, and overcome tech hurdles.”
The 90-minute iPhone classes are free for VillagesOKC members and cost $20 for non-members. Here are the dates and topics:
• September 25 – Music on iPhone.
• October 30 – Taking Notes on iPhone.
• November 20 – Connecting with Loved Ones on iPhone.
All workshops are from 1-2:30 pm at the Mitch Park YMCA, 2901 Marilyn Williams Dr. in Edmond. Preregistration is required by going to the VillagesOKC calendar
(https://LoveYourAge.org) or by calling (405) 990-6637