The Hackett family is pleased to provide this magazine as an educational gift to you. The articles were written by Lori Hackett-Long and Jackie LaCrouxi. The articles express Lori’s thoughts, philosophy and education she has obtained over the many years serving in the senior care field of work. They hope you enjoy reading them. Herman and Gail Hackett made their dreams a reality in 1971 when they opened Greenbrier. Through the years, their family has grown Greenbrier into one of the finest retirement communities in northwest Oklahoma. Greenbrier Village is uniquely designed to provide the most appropriate level of housing and services through each of its five levels of care: Burgundy Place (Senior Independent Apartments), Assisted Living, The Homes of Greenbrier, Rogers Home (memory support) and Skilled Nursing and Rehabilitation Center.
1
Growing Through The Years With
Grace: Learning How To Cope
by Jacqueline Hince Photos by Nancy Killam
“Life is ten percent what happens to you and ninety percent how you react to it.” -- Charles R. Swindoll Life is full of challenges. Every day we are confronted with problems and difficulties to overcome. No one is immune to tragedy and although we cannot always control what happens in life we can control how we react to it. “A normal part of living for all ages is coping with challenges, problems, stresses; whether good or bad,” explains Lori Long. “You have to cope every day. The world is changing. Your life is changing every day.” She goes on to say that the pro-
cesses we use to handle these changes are called coping mechanisms. Long, who is an active member of her family’s business, Greenbrier Village, has a passion for helping people, especially the elderly, find ways to deal with daily stresses and challenges. Though Long says typically the coping mechanism one uses is an automatic response, it doesn’t have to be that way. “If we understand what some coping mechanisms are,” explains Long, “we can first identify them and then
Mattie Wilcox & Barbie Rich learn to control them.” There are both negative and positive coping mechanisms. Negative reactions include “regression” or dealing with people and situations by regressing back to childish behavior and “projection”. “Projection is projecting your feelings onto someone else,” explains Long. “For instance if you’ve had a disappointment or stressful day you may
maintain your pleasant attitude to friends and co-workers but once a family member or spouse walks in, you just let it all go and project your frustration and anger upon that person.” Long goes on to say that if you demonstrate these behaviors, it should alert you that you need to find better ways to cope. Positive coping mechanisms include insight, faith, humor or reminiscing. The “in-
sight technique” enables you to ask an upset person if they’re having a hard time. The goal is for the two of you to talk openly together. “Just listen and listen very closely,” says Long. “Then reflect back what they just told you. You do not need to solve their problems. You do not need to give them an answer. What they need to cope is to know that someone has listened to them and someone
understands them.” Coupling her experience and educational training, Long believes that faith is a very important coping mechanism used daily for many individuals. Families, friends and caregivers can encourage religious people to lean on their faith by sharing scripture promises and other words of faith. Over the years Long has observed how older adults need spiritual encouragement through continued support and visits. Reverend Don Johnson is the associate pastor at the Central Chris-
tian Church in Enid and volunteers much of his time meeting the religious needs of residents at Greenbrier. He often sees people who are dealing with loss lean on their faith. “Through prayer and worship a person can turn away from the pressing situation, allow yourself to be calm, and then three things come from this. One is guidance on difficult decisions, the second thing is encouragement to put those decisions into action and the third is strength to complete those actions.” Reverend Johnson says not only do people
turn to God in times of need, but they can also turn to other members of their church and their faith leader for support. “I think when you have a relationship with God, with people in the congregation and with a faith leader the advice you get is advice you can trust.” Using humor to cope can provide some release for you when in a tense situation. “Humor helps us all unite in our humanness of dealing together with a little more light hearted attitude,” says Long. However she
Bert Sims, Gene Woelke & Rev Don Johnson praying together
cautions you to use humor only if the person in need uses it. Lastly there’s reminiscing. Reminiscing is when you express or talk about former events, recollections or accomplishments. “For instance, if it is the birthday or anniversary of a loved one who is no longer living or one of the ‘firsts’ after a significant other has passed; the reminiscing of that person is a coping mechanism that adds warmth, comfort and love,” says Long. Though Long says every person at every age must use coping mechanisms to deal with day to day life, she says as we grow older
Rev Don Johnson & Clo Rine saying the Lord’s Prayer
we often have more challenges and issues to cope with. As you age your body may have more issues for you to work through and loss sadly happens more frequently. She says that’s why it’s important you learn to identify the different types of coping mechanisms now and continually work to employ more positive methods. “You can learn to help yourself, you can help your children and you can even direct the older people in your family to have more positive ways of coping and dealing with situations. That in turn will help you and your loved ones learn to grow more gracefully through the years.”
Shanna Knight & Clo Rine - Enjoying a nice moment of Reminising.
Growing Through The Years With
Grace: The Agreement by Jacqueline Hince Photos by Nancy Killam A new study has found that honesty may truly be the best policy. We’ve all heard the familiar quote. Now new findings in the “Science of Honesty” presented at this year’s American Psychological Association’s 120th Annual Convention say people who work to tell the truth have better mental and physical health. This article suggests it also improves the health of your relationships. Though most would agree honesty is important in all relationships, Lori Long says when it comes to communicating with older generations, being open and truthful is imperative. “Over the last thirty-two years I have seen families struggle when communicating with their older parents,” observes Long. “We have to come up with this idea that to honor and respect one another we have to allow an
older person to communicate honestly what they need and accept that.” Long has studied the process of aging for years. She has her masters in Gerontology, has written a book on the subject and is an active member of her family’s business Greenbrier Village. In order to promote healthy communication in her own family, Long created something she calls “The Agreement”:
I agree to communicate honestly with you. When I offer something I truly mean it and when I accept one of your offers I do so because I want to. My actions will be genuine. I will not do or say anything out of feelings of guilt or obligation. In turn, you must be honest with me. Whether you are accepting an offer or asking for something, your responses and actions will reflect what you truly desire. We do this to honor and respect each other and our relationship. (Readers will notice “The Agreement” is on the postcard attachment found within these pages.)
The only rule of “The Agreement” is that you both have to follow it. You can do that by gently reminding each other from time to time that your offers or actions are sincere. Long has been employing her theory on “The Agreement” in her own life for nearly eight years now. “It’s really changed the relationship with my parents. It allows me to honor my parents and yet be able to be honest with them and say, ‘I’m worried’ or ‘I want to know what are you thinking?’ ” You can use “The Agreement” when deciding something as simple as offering to buy
4
groceries or when discussing certain legal issues like Advance Directives and Power of Attorneys. In fact, Long says when having those necessary conversations, it’s essential you use it. “Life expectancy has increased since 1940,” says Long. “Back then it was forty-seven years old. Today people live to be an average of seventy-eight. So you can see why it’s so important to talk openly about what needs to be in place. We have to get over the idea this is a ‘morbid’ discussion. It is a natural part of the life cycle and for those that are getting older, especially
those of faith, this is not the end but the beginning.” Long says repeatedly she sees aging adults battle between feeling like they may be interfering with the busy lives of their children or, on the opposite end of the spectrum, that their children will misunderstand their needs and take away their independence. Fears that she says can be resolved by talking candidly using “The Agreement”. “You will be relieved of worry, you will be relieved of guilt and relieved that no one is going to take away your independence and yet you’ll still
Shirley Campbell, Doris Foresman & Ken Campbell
Erikson’s Psychosocial Stages Summary Chart Erik Erikson described development that occurs throughout the lifespan. Learn more in this chart summarizing Erikson’s stages of psychosocial development.
Stage • Basic Conflict • Important Events Outcome
Infancy (birth to 18 months) Trust vs. Mistrust • Feeding Children develop a sense of trust when caregivers provide reliabilty, care, and affection. A lack of this will lead to mistrust.
feel comfortable relying on each other,” explains Long. Throughout the various stages of life we all have different needs to be met. Notice in the diagram of Erik Erikson’s stages of psychosocial development from the minute we’re born to our last hour we have certain expectations. If they are not met, we face feelings of mistrust, despair, failure and the list goes on. Many of the things in the diagram require us to rely on our family and loved ones. Though no family is perfect, it is important to try and bridge any gaps with those closest to you, so that as you age you can lean on one another. One way to do that is to start employing “The Agreement” now with all your relationships. Long says in the end, being completely transparent with one another can only make you closer. “It doesn’t mean that we interfere with each others’ lives,” concludes Long, “it just allows us to share each others’ lives.”
Early Childhood (2 to 3 years) Autonomy vs. Shame and Doubt • Toilet Training Children need to develop a sense of personal control over physical skills and a sense of independence. Success leads to feelings of autonomy, failure results in feelings of shame and doubt. Preschool (3 to 5 years)
Initiative vs. Guilt • Exploration Children need to begin asserting control and power over the environment. Success in this stage leads to a sense of purpose. Children who try to exert too much power experience disapproval, resulting in a sense of guilt.
School Age (6 to 11 years)
Industry vs. Inferiority • School Children need to cope with new social and academic demands. Success leads to a sense of competence, while failure results in feelings of inferiority.
Adolescence (12 to 18 years)
Identity vs. Role Confusion • Social Relationships Teens need to develop a sense of self and personal identity. Success leads to an ability to stay true to yourself, while failure leads to role confusion and a weak sense of self.
Life Expectancy Since 1960 to 2010
Young Adulthood (19 to 40 years)
80 40 0 1960
2010
Intimacy vs. Isolation • Relationships Young adults need to form intimate, loving relationships with other people. Success leads to strong relationships, while failure results in loneliness and isolation.
Middle Adulthood (40 to 65 years) Generativity vs. Stagnation • Work and Parenthood Adults need to create or nurture things that will outlast them, often by having children or creating a positive change that benefits other people. Success leads to feelings of usefulness and accomplishment, while failure results in shallow involvement in the world. Maturity (65 to death)
Ego Integrity vs. Despair • Reflection on Life Older adults need to look back on life and feel a sense of fulfillment. Success at this stage leads to feelings of wisdom, while failure results in regret, bitterness, and despair.
5
Growing Through The Years With
Grace:
Becoming a “Survivor” by Jacqueline Hince Photos by Cammeron Kaiser
“Beautiful young people are accidents of nature, but beautiful old people are works of art.” --Eleanor Roosevelt As the years tick by many of us are guilty of trying to turn back the clock or at least slow it down. Magazine pages are often littered with anti-aging secrets, creams and tips. However, Dr. Tom Snyder, the Medical Director at Greenbrier Village, says the key to aging gracefully isn’t found in a package. “The secrets to healthy aging are all common knowledge now. Good life habits, the more exercise
the better, stay socially and spiritually involved, take care of medical needs and preventative health. Successful aging doesn’t come in a bottle. It is not a supplement. It is more of a lifestyle.” Dr. Snyder has a unique view of the elderly population. As a doctor for nearly thirty years, and the medical director at Greenbrier Village for more than twenty, he has seen firsthand the physical and emotional
Dr Snyder with the Admission director Bobbie Jo Sutton and resident Glenda Hazelton effects aging has on the body. That’s why he calls the older generation “survivors”. He says they’re the tough ones among us. “They have made it through childhood illnesses, and the struggles of adolescence. They have made it through the pitfalls of the mid-part of life, like substance abuse or things like accidents or violence. Some of it
6
is genetic, some of it is good luck and some of it is lifestyle,” mulls Snyder. Therefore the elderly are the pioneers among us. They are “survivors” who have defeated many of life’s challenges. They have amazing qualities like stamina and a sense of resilience. Which begs the question, are there things you can do to become a survivor?
Dr. Snyder says there are steps you can take to work to prolong your life and ensure you have a better quality of life. In his experience the two greatest struggles among aging populations is isolation and depression. Isolation, because it can become harder to keep or form new relationships and depression often stems from physical
pain. “Aging is not for sissies,” says Dr. Snyder. “It involves a lot of pain, it involves some rejection, it involves change and that all sounds like junior high.” He says it’s imperative to keep and maintain friends, have an active social life, stay involved in your church and try to maintain strong relationships with your children or grandchildren. “That can really make a difference,” says Dr. Snyder. Other actions that can make a difference include eating healthy, exercising regularly, visiting the doctor to get checkups as well as getting plenty of rest each night. “Aging gracefully has much more to
do with common sense then it has to do with an unhealthy lifestyle or trendy medical or nutritional entities,” reiterates Snyder. Dr. Snyder says by taking steps now, you are preparing your body to battle the inevitable challenges and struggles that come with age. Dementia is the number one reason the elderly seeks refuge in nursing homes, yet studies show physical activity may reduce dementia by as much as fifty percent. Dr. Snyder cites dementia as the main culprit for falls in the elderly as well. He suggests children of aging parents ensure their mother or father carry a cell phone
Dr Snyder with Director of Nursing Brandi Davidson, MDS Karen Swank and Resident Evelyn Radcliffe at all times to alert others if they take a tumble. Falling is also one of the first signs that aging parents may soon need assistance. However, it’s important to research the various levels of support available to your loved ones. Aging populations can get family and friend support to stay at home, or they may find a better fit in independent senior or assisted living. Skilled nursing homes are also available to provide round the clock care.
When it comes time to deciding if loved ones need extra support, there is a list of “activities of daily living” that can help you determine the functional status of a loved one. “Things like their ability to prepare food, get in and out of the bathroom, wash clothes, maintain their home, get the newspaper, keep from falling, pay their bills,” explains Snyder. ADL’s are the best way to gauge whether it’s time to move into a senior
independent apartment, assisted living or nursing home. Dr. Snyder encourages you to consult with a doctor if you’re concerned. In the end, Dr. Snyder emphasizes that no matter our age we are all still young at heart. We must take each day as a gift and live life to the fullest. “All humans have an eternal soul,” concludes Dr. Snyder. “So they’re basically young their whole life, because life is a small chapter of an eternal soul’s existence.”
7
Growing Through The Years With
Grace:
Eat…Drink…& Age Gracefully by Jacqueline Hince Photos by Nancy Killam
“One cannot think well, love well, sleep well, if one has not dined well.” - Virginia Woolf A Room of One’s Own
If there were a way to calculate how many times the phrase “eat your vegetables,” is muttered each day it likely would top popularity charts. Mothers tell children to gobble up their greens, doctors and dieticians hammer patients with the request and nearly every article about how to fight aging, lose weight or get healthy requires a plate full of produce. Vegetables, fruit, whole grains and low-fat dairy are considered some of the best anti-aging foods but Syd Smith says that doesn’t mean you have to give up the occasional guilty indulgence.
“It’s all about balance and moderation.”
Smith is the Dietary Consultant at Greenbrier Village and manages the residents and patients throughout Greenbrier’s five levels of care including Burgundy Place, Assisted Living, Nursing Home, Rogers Home and Skilled Nursing and Rehabilitation. Smith has worked at Greenbrier for eighteen years. This year the Oklahoma Association of Health Care Providers named her the 2013 Dietician of the Year and honored her with the 2013 Super Hero for Dietary Award.
Syd Smith, Assisted Living – Ilamae Terrell Though Smith says moderation and portion control are a huge issue for all ages, when talking about older more fragile generations, what you eat and how much you eat plays a direct role in your health. “Oh, diet is critical,” emphasizes Smith. “Medicine is very important, all the treatments we do are very important but you have to maintain
a healthy intake and diet to build those cells and tissues back up and to maintain a healthy function in your entire being.” When a new client comes to Greenbrier Smith assesses their condition. Each new resident has individual needs but Smith says the most common issue she sees is seniors eliminating certain foods from their diet. “If they’ve been at home and they haven’t been
cooking for themselves then they may have stopped eating a variety of things and instead they just made what was easy, or if they come in and they’re having trouble chewing then they may have left out meats and vegetables and other foods that are harder to chew. They may limit fluid intake because they are nervous they’ll have an accident.” Smith says even in these situations it is important
to have a well-rounded diet. She suggests those struggling consult a doctor or registered dietician to find a way to ensure they’re getting all the nutrients they need. In 2011, the Department of Agriculture created the “My Plate” campaign to push Americans to fill their plates with vegetables, fruit, protein, grains and dairy at meals. “My Plate” focuses on things like consuming whole fruits full of fiber rather than just drinking juice, picking green leafy vegetables filled with antioxidants over ones topped with gravy and butter, and eating whole grains instead of their processed white flour counterparts. It also suggests you get protein from beans or legumes as well as meat. Drinking plenty of water throughout the day to avoid dehydration is a must. Smith says following “My Plate” to eat better will have a positive effect on nearly every aspect of your health. “Although it depends on that person and what they’re condition is, often within a couple weeks of following a better diet people feel better,” reiterates Smith. “They’re more hydrated which can even effects how clearly you think, they have more energy and they’re more willing to participate in activities.” It can affect your emotional health as well. In order to encourage their clients to follow a well balanced diet, in 1996 Greenbrier Nursing Home began a cultural change they call “Welcome Home”. The goal is to transform their nursing home from more institutionalized care to feeling as though you’re in your own house. As part of their effort to create that home-like living space for aging residents Smith revamped the dining room to make it more of a café setting. Residents are now given menus each day and have a number of choices they can make when it comes to what they eat and when. Smith says it’s made a huge difference, “Everybody likes to still be able to make those choices and have that control in their life and so I think it’s made them feel better about that. They just like the freedom of it and like coming in at different times. I feel like they eat better.” Smith encourages the elderly living independently or with a caretaker to look for ways to make eating healthy readily accessible.
Homes of Greenbrier – Melba Best, Syd Smith Pick up fresh produce every week, join a service such as “Meals on Wheels” or go grocery shopping for your loved one to make sure fresh fruits and vegetables are on hand. For those with aging parents, finding time for you or someone else to go over and cook healthy meals your parent can simply re-heat may aid them in following a healthier meal plan. “Having those things on hand, having fruits and vegetables there where that person can have that readily available to them means they’re going to eat better,” encourages Smith. Eating better means you’ll feel better to continue growing through your years with grace. References For Article: helpguide.org www.choosemyplate.gov
Burgundy Place Patsy Shepard, Jennifer Moore, Annie Roberts, Misty Rowden, Sharon Wagner, Tracie Brennan, Syd Smith, Gina Howe
9
9
Growing Through The Years With
Grace: Family Matters by Jacqueline Hince Photos by Nancy Killam
“Call it a clan, call it a network, call it a tribe, call it a family: Whatever you call it, whoever you are, you need one.” - Jane Howard
Family: they have their moments of encouragement, their moments of laughter and their moments of utter craziness, yet that core group of loved ones are the people who will most likely carry our love, heritage and legacy on long after we leave this earth. Now more than ever it’s imperative you embrace your family and spend time not only getting to know them but allowing them to truly know you. Lori Long is a firm believer that as you age and progress in life, and as your descendents multiply, it is crucial you pass along your core values to the generations behind you. Long, whose family founded Greenbrier Village has seen time and again how family can
be the one constant in your life. Jobs come and go, friends can move away, but no matter the distance, family often stays close. “Everyone in the family hopefully looks up to the older people, they honor and respect them. With that comes responsibility. That’s why we’re never retired. We might be retired from a career or an organization, but in life we’re never retired. There’s always something we can teach to our family,” says Long. Long holds a Master’s in Gerontology, and has taught on both the state and university level but she says much of her knowledge in life comes from her own experiences and from watching her parents.
Herman Hackett, Cathy Burkhardt, Louise Rapp & Jeanice Grajales Long says though lessons and education can be learned, wisdom has to be earned. Over the years, life’s situations and the environment around us shape the wisdom each of us holds dear. “Life is marvelous; a marvelous adventure,” mulls Long. “We are all learning our own wisdom that we can then pass down.” Now more than ever it is critical that you take the necessary actions to pass that wisdom down. Long cites her own parents as
a prime example of the values that can travel through the lines. Raised in the tiny town of Trousdale, Okla. (a town which no longer exists) her parents met in grade school. As teenagers, her father worked on the family farm and her mother, not only helped raise her four siblings, but also taught school. Over the years Long’s parents have described their childhood to Long, how they used to grow and save most of their food, as well as what entertainment they had back then.
Long’s folks have been married sixty years now and are still devoted, committed and incredibly loving towards one another. Long’s parents excelled at passing down stories, and inadvertently, lessons to the younger generations in their family. “They taught us from their own life experiences,” explains Long. “They taught us that we can make our life both meaningful and purposeful. They taught us to have enjoyment in relationships and how to have
Lori Long, Branden Hackett, Herman Hackett & Steve Hackett character. They taught us that there are just some things in life, very precious things, that you just can’t buy.” Long, who began working with her parents shortly after college, says her passion for service also comes from her parents. Her father, taking note of the graying of America and the need for safe, nurturing homes for the elderly, opened Greenbrier in 1971. Long says working alongside her father she often witnessed how he would treat others and that he always took time to serve others. “Even in the toughest of times, I’ve always felt like if it’s in our power to do good, then do it. That’s a lesson that comes from my parents,” recalls Long. Long recognizes that not all families have the kind of strength and togetherness her parents were able to instill in her. Many families have scars and past hurts that cloud gatherings and strain relationships. Growing through the years with grace can often mean softening your heart and forgiving others or asking others to forgive you. “We need forgiveness and to move on – we’re all going to be disappointed by other human beings,” says Long. “At some point, even if they don’t ask for forgiveness, we must forgive and have a sense of restoration in our own lives and in relationships. We cannot change other people but we can change ourselves.” There are a number of ways to spark a conversation with your family and begin passing on your heritage and wisdom. Ideally we each should strive to be living examples of character and integrity, however even then, it is still important to keep open lines of communication. Long encourages Greenbrier clients to take interest in what’s going on in their families lives. “It seems simple but our words have power!” says Long. “They have the power to lift up, encourage, heal, but they also have the power to tear down and destroy.” As for younger generations, you too can make a point of calling older members regularly and show interest, concern, support and love. Another way to pass down family heritage is by writing out short stories from your past. Below are four topics you can write out and give to your family. Younger members can also use the topics to ask
questions of older members. Use these prompts to open up to your family and take time together. Especially with the holidays coming, make this your gift to share: 1. Write a short essay or simply discuss where you were born, how many brothers’ sisters you have, a memory of your parents and what was it like during your childhood 2. Talk about a favorite story/memory about being married (if you were) and having kids (if you did) 3. Did you have a career or special hobby, something that motivated you each day? Talk about what it was that you learned or enjoyed from that experience. 4. If you were to look at your life, and the things you’ve experienced, what is it that you want to share with your family that’s going to be handed down for the next generation? Write down a couple points of wisdom you’ve learned over your life for your family. Long says taking time for each other, be it over long distance calls, letters, or face to face conversations, lets your family know they are your priority. “Older people that are engaged in their families and are still thriving, those are older people we call inspirations,” says Long. “They are mentors that model the core belief that family matters, wisdom matters and heritage matters.”
Janet Kendall, Iretta Terrel & Mike Weatherford
Growing Through The Years With
Grace: Staying safe. by Jacqueline Hince Photos by Nancy Killam
“Youth is the gift of nature, but age is a work of art.” - Stanislaw Jerzy Lec
A number of blessings come with age. The joys of grandchildren, the “senior” discount, retirement and a wisdom that comes from living multiple decades. Aging can often be a very positive thing, if only there weren’t challenges for the physical body! However here are precautions and tips to help you stay safe and injury free, as you grow older. Each year one in every three adults age 65 and older suffers a fall, according to the National Safety Council. The NSC also found that the risk of falling increases exponentially at 75 years old and again at age 80 and older. Some of these accidents can lead to rather serious injuries. Greenbrier’s Skilled Rehabilitation Unit sees a number of individuals referred by doctors and hospitals after surgery
from fractures. Their goal is to work with them in both physical and occupational therapy to help them get back on their feet. In fact, Greenbrier’s Skilled Rehab Unit is the only free-standing facility in Enid with a full-time physical therapy director since the unit was built. Director Dan Burchel has been with Greenbrier for more than 15 years now. He finds joy in watching patients come in, work hard, and leave with a new set of skills to help them stay safe at home. Patients who may have suffered a fall, have gotten sick, just had a surgery or a medical issue arise can be admitted into the Greenbrier Skilled Rehab Unit and begin their journey to recovery. “One thing that sets us apart is we have an in-house dedicated therapy team. We’re there every day,” says Burchel. Bobbie Jo Sutton, who has worked
UR team around table/ with charts,etc as a nurse at Greenbrier Village in Enid for twenty years and is currently the director of Greenbrier’s Skilled Unit, adds “our goal is to do rehab, physical, occupational or even speech therapy and an education program to get patients to their highest functioning self. We then send them back to wherever they came from; whether that’s home, living with their children, or at assisted living.” Greenbrier Skilled Rehabilitation Unit also works with their clients to make sure they’re not only physically able to return
home, but are emotionally and mentally stable as well. Before they return home employees of the Skilled Unit will often do a home visit to “proof ” the patient’s home and make it as safe an environment as possible. Sutton says you don’t have to wait for an injury to do the same. “You want to make sure that fall preventative measures and all the safety things are in place,” explains Sutton. “Also check on your elderly loved ones regularly to ensure they’re taking their medication, that they’re able to cook, and that they’re memory
is o.k.” The first step is to always consult your doctor. At Greenbrier Village, Dr. Tom Snyder serves as the Medical Director and visits with patients and their families regularly. Discuss with your doctor your concerns about falling, or other safety issues you may have at home. The goal for many elderly is to stay as independent as possible for as long as possible and often a medical provider can help you do that. Dr. Snyder encourages the clientele at Greenbrier to partake in physical
Bobbi Jo, Nurse, Anna Marie in BJ office
activity and exercise, whether it’s a class or just walking outside. Snyder sites that dementia is one of the main culprits of falls, yet studies show that physical activity may reduce dementia by as much as 50%. Also exercising, like walking, or light workouts may help slow bone loss from osteoporosis. Strong bones won’t fracture as easily if you take a tumble. Burchel explains that the most frequent place that falls occur is in bathrooms. “We visit our bathrooms six to eight times a day or more, and several times during the night. Night time toileting involves a decrease in our senses and reflexive acuity, and often involves a sense of urgency, lower lighting, and improper footwear.” Installing railings and purchasing a taller toilet seat can make the process smoother and safer. In fact railings throughout your house is a great way to prevent accidents, especially along problem areas like stairs. Other suggestions include throwing away throw rugs and always wearing shoes with non-skid soles. The National Safety Council advocates having your vision tested at least once a year and getting walkers or canes properly sized by professionals. According to the Centers for Disease Control many people who fall, even if they are not injured, develop a fear of falling. This fear may cause them to limit their activities, which leads to reduced mobility and a loss of physical fitness, which in turn increases their actual risk of falling. Burchel agrees, adding, “when we begin to feel unsafe with walking, we reduce our mobility outside our homes. When we start reducing our daily walking and other activities, we begin losing strength, endurance, and vestibular activation.” He goes on to say at Greenbrier through rehabilitation the professionals work to challenge a person’s balance by having them walk, maneuver and transition in many different directions, speeds, surfaces and with least support necessary. Sutton says there are things you can do now if you are concerned about your aging loved ones. Check in with a doctor to make sure older patients are taking their medicine and are doing well living independently. Have a close friend stop in for a visit. Often having a patient go into the Skilled Rehabilitation Unit at Greenbrier can provide a wake up call for families that they may need more assistance at home, but that doesn’t always mean they have to be taken out of their home. However when the goal is safety, all options, including on-campus apartments, like Greenbrier’s Burgundy Apartments, or even long-term care facilities can be the most appropriate & best options. There are ways to make navigating the older years of life easier. Aging is a beautiful thing. It marks the passage of time and memories of life. Take the steps… the careful steps… now to ensure you enjoy the blessings in your older years.
DIAGRAM: Safety Measures in the Bathroom:
1. A taller toilet for easier rising and descent. 2. Secured railings besides the toilet or bedside commode placed over the toilet; offer tactile parameters and give lateral support holds for transfer and clothing management. 3. Remove throw rugs. 4. Use a night-light. 5. Use a transfer tub bench and hand-held shower nozzle. 6. Use an adjustable height shower chair with back and a hand- held shower nozzle and grab bars. 7. Keep your cell phone or cordless phone nearby during bathing
Signs that you may need to begin use an assistive device: 1. You find yourself holding onto furniture when you walk through the house. 2. You shuffle your feet when you walk. 3. You freeze up when you have to step up or down a stair or curb. 4. Use of a shopping cart makes you feel more secure. 5. You have fallen at least twice in the last 3 months.
Growing Through The Years With
Grace:
Fresh Look at Senior Communities by Jacqueline Hince Photos by Nancy Killam
“Home is where the heart is.” - Pliny the Elder
Senior living has come a long way from the poorhouses of old. Gone is the institutionalized feel, replaced instead with options geared to provide whatever it is the millions of aging Americans desire. Options that can free loved ones from the obligations, stressors and isolation of growing old at home, instead providing an opportunity to live life to its fullest. In this article we take a fresh look at senior communities and how much has changed over the last several decades. Though seniors have sought or needed assistance for centuries, it wasn’t until the 1980’s that the U.S. government instituted reforms and regulated the care provided. Also in the 80’s the emergence of
Health Care Authority (OHCA) ensure facilities provide standard care. They also are creating a cultural change among senior communities by promoting a home environment where residents get to make their own choices. A concept Greenbrier Village has taken and run with. “Each apartment or room with a resident in it is that person’s home within the big community and that’s how it’s set up,” explains Kay Grey who says all Greenbrier facilities employ the “home approach”. Grey serves as a marketing consultant to Greenbrier and has
senior communities hit the market. Senior apartments, home health care, and assisted living facilities began providing other options for seniors needing or merely wanting a little help to get through day to day living. Not only did senior facilities improve over the last sixty years but the life expectancy of Americans increased by more than a decade as well. “As aging populations grew and aging generations lived longer the consumer began to drive the market,” states Lori Long, who with her family owns and operates Greenbrier Village here in Enid. She says that shift changed senior communities for the better. Today, here in Oklahoma, programs implemented by the Oklahoma
experience in medical management and healthcare marketing. In fact, for over ten years, the Homes of Greenbrier has been teaching and training others how to transition into a Home Care setting with the program: “Welcome Home Oklahoma Project”. The other major shift throughout senior living facilities is the focus on maintaining residents’ independence. For example across every level of housing offered at Greenbrier Village, residents make their own choices about what they want to eat, their daily schedule and what activities they want or
don’t want to participate in. Greenbrier Village has cafés on each campus as well as event and activity coordinators who often keep residents busy. In return constant communication between residents and staff helps Greenbrier stay cutting edge. “Open communication is important,” says Charisse Pierce, an administrative assistant at Greenbrier Assisted Living. “We hold meetings called ‘Living life to the fullest’ to plan with the residents what they want to do as far as upcoming celebrations, holidays for the month, daily and weekly events or
specials. Their input and opinions make the home full of purpose and provide meaningful living opportunities” Though senior living has changed over the years its reputation hasn’t always kept up. “Senior homes enrich the lives of senior adults by providing them secure, nurturing care,” says Grey. “What’s tough today is working to educate current seniors about
how the new senior homes are not the same as the ones they think of from 40 or 50 years ago.” Seniors today have a choice. Many desire to hold onto their current physical residence yet that can come at a cost. Not only can the day to day chores and upkeep become overwhelming, yet there’s threats of isolation, depression and safety. For
some, moving into a senior community may be the best option. “Leaving their physical residence called home and making a new home at a new place where opportunities await you can improve both senior’s physical and emotional health,” states Long. “It’s all about finding the most appropriate setting for your loved one.” Long goes on to say moving into a senior community can actually
be a freeing experience for older generations. “The freedom comes from becoming more independent again, becoming more social, more secure and having to cope less with the environment and just enjoy the purpose in living.” Greenbrier Village in Enid offers multiple levels of care to seniors wanting or needing more assistance including Burgundy Place Independent Living Apartments, Greenbrier’s Assisted Living, The Homes of Greenbrier, the facility’s nursing home, and their Skilled Nursing and Rehab center. As
for which level is the right one for you or your aging loved one, there are managers at each location that can help you make that decision. Greenbrier staff encourages you to come visit or call and they will go through the criteria with you. Long says it’s imperative to do the research and make decisions now, then communicate those decisions to loved ones and adult children. Greenbrier Village has been rated a fivestar facility by the state through the program Focus on Excellence. Though honored by the rating Greenbrier says their priority
is just for every resident to be at home. “I had a lady,” remembers Mike Weatherford, manager at Burgundy Place Apartments, “she was here for about a month and a half and she stopped me in the hall and said, ‘I’m home. I finally feel like I’m at home!’ That’s the greatest thing my staff and I can hear. We always say ‘Home is where the heart is’ and to watch that happen – that’s why I do what I do.”
Growing Through The Years With
Grace: The Highlights by Jacqueline Hince Photos by Nancy Killam
“Knowledge is power” - Francis Bacon
Aging affects every part of our being. Gray hairs, wrinkles, loss of vision or hearing are all signs a body is getting older. However, aging affects the mind, spirit and emotional well-being of a person as well. Over the last several months the Growing Through the Years with Grace series has aimed to help educate and give ideas on how to embrace aging. Today, we highlight some of the key findings presented. “Once you hit puberty you’re aging. So all of us are going through it, we’re just at different stages.” Lori Long’s matter of fact statement comes from years of education and experience. Long has her Master’s in gerontology and is an active member in her family’s business Greenbrier Village. Long encourages her residents to employ two strategies to help them embrace their older years. The first is “life review”, which is remembering the past and taking yourself back in time to events, memories, or people in your life. The second process is called
“reminiscing”. “Reminiscing” is when you express or talk about former events, recollections or accomplishments. Reminiscing is also an important mechanism to utilize as you cope with the changes that occur throughout the aging process. Every day we are confronted with problems or difficulties to overcome. Although we cannot always control what happens in life we can control how we react to it. “A normal part of living for all ages is coping with challenges, problems, stresses; whether good or bad. You have to cope every day,” explains Long. She goes on to say that the processes we use to handle these changes are called coping mechanisms. “If we understand what some coping mechanisms are we can first identify them and then learn to control them.” Several positive and negative coping mechanisms are listed in the box below.
BOX OF POSITIVE AND NEGATIVE COPING MECHANISMS NEGATIVE: Regression – dealing with people/situations by regressing back to childish behavior Projection – projecting your feelings onto someone else.
POSTIVE Insight – talk openly with a confidant, listener needs to focus and reflect back, do not try to solve the problem, just listen Faith -- encourage religious people to lean on their faith by sharing scripture promises and
Working to employ positive coping mechanisms at every opportunity takes time. However, by doing that and relying on close friends or family to help you work through challenges Long says you will be rewarded in your relationships. In important relationships remember honesty is crucial. Especially when communicating with older generations. In order to promote healthy communication in her own family, Long created something she calls
other words of faith. Humor – adopt a lighthearted attitude (make sure situation is appropriate when using humor) Reminiscing -- express or talk about former events, recollections or accomplishments.
“The Agreement”:
I agree to communicate honestly with you. When I offer something I truly mean it and when I accept one of your offers I do so because I want to. My actions will be genuine. I will not do or say anything out of feelings of guilt or obligation. In turn, you must be honest with me. Whether you are accepting an offer or asking for something, your responses and actions will reflect what you truly desire. We do this to honor and respect each other and our relationship.
You can use “The Agreement” when deciding something as simple as offering to buy groceries or when discussing certain legal issues like Advance Directives and Powers of Attorney. By using “The Agreement” in essential moments, alot can be resolved. “You will be relieved of worry, you will be relieved of guilt and relieved that no one is going to take away your independence and yet you’ll still feel comfortable relying on each other,” explains Long. She says in the end, being completely transparent with one another can only make you closer. A close family often has moments of encouragement, laughter and utter craziness, yet that core group of loved ones are the people who will most likely carry our love, heritage and legacy on long after we leave this earth.
Long is a firm believer that as you age and progress in life, it is crucial you pass along your core values to the ongoing generations. “Everyone in the family hopefully looks up to the older people, they honor and respect them. With that comes responsibility. That’s why we’re never retired. We might be retired from a career or an organization, but in life we’re never retired. There’s always something we can teach to our family,” says Long. In life, lessons and education can be learned, yet wisdom has to be earned. “Life is marvelous; a marvelous adventure,” mulls Long. “We are all learning our own wisdom that we can then pass down.” Long recognizes that not all families are close. Many families have scars and past hurts that cloud gatherings and strain relationships.
Village, says, “The secrets to healthy aging are all common knowledge now. Good life habits, the more exercise the better, stay socially and spiritually involved, take care of medical needs and preventative health. Successful aging doesn’t come in a bottle. It is not a supplement. It is more of a lifestyle.“ Dr. Snyder says there are steps you can take to work to prolong your life and ensure you have a better quality of life. In his experience the two greatest struggles among aging populations is isolation and depression. He says it is imperative to keep and maintain friends, have an active social life, stay involved in your church and try to maintain strong relationships with your children or grandchildren. Other actions that can make a difference include eating healthy, exercising regularly, visiting the doctor to get check ups as well as getting plenty of rest each night. “Aging gracefully has much more to do with common sense then it has to do with an unhealthy lifestyle or trendy medical or nutritional entities,” reiterates Snyder.
Growing through the years with grace can often mean softening your heart and forgiving others or asking others to forgive you. “At some point, even if they don’t ask for forgiveness, we must forgive and have a sense of restoration in our own lives and in relationships. We cannot change other people but we can change ourselves,” reiterates Long. Long encourages Greenbrier clients to take interest in what’s going on in their families’ lives. Taking time for each other, be it over long distance calls, letters, or face-to-face conversations, lets your family know they are your priority. Another priority not to be neglected as you grow through the years with grace is your physical health and well-being. Dr. Tom Snyder, the Medical Director at Greenbrier
In 2011, The Department of Agriculture created the “My Plate” campaign to push Americans to fill their plates with vegetables, fruit, protein, grains and dairy at meals. “My Plate” focuses on things like consuming whole fruits full of fiber, picking green leafy vegetables filled with antioxidants, and eating whole grains. It also suggests you get protein from beans or legumes as well as meat. Drinking plenty of water throughout the day to avoid dehydration is a must. Syd Smith, the Dietary Consultant at Greenbrier Village, says following “My Plate” to eat better will have a positive effect on nearly every aspect of your health. Though she says you can still have the occasional indulgence, “It’s all about balance and moderation.” Smith says what you eat and how much you eat plays a direct role in your health. “Oh, diet is critical,” emphasizes Smith. “Medicine is very important, all the treatments we do are very important but you have to maintain a healthy intake and diet to build those cells and tissues back up and to maintain a healthy function in your entire being.”
Eating right and exercising can also play a part in avoiding serious accidents. Each year one in every three adults age 65 and older suffers a fall, according to the National Safety Council. The NSC also found that the risk of falling increases exponentially at 75 years old and again at age 80 and older. Greenbrier’s Skilled Rehabilitation Unit sees a number of individuals referred by doctors and hospitals after surgery from fractures that can result from a bad tumble. Their goal is to work with them in both physical and occupational therapy to help them get back on their feet. In fact, Greenbrier’s Skilled Rehab Unit is the only free standing facility in Enid with a full time physical therapy director since the unit was built. Director Dan Burchel explains that the most frequent place falls occur is bathrooms. Installing railings in the bathroom and purchasing a taller toilet seat can make the process smoother and safer. In fact railings throughout your house is a great way to prevent accidents, especially along problem areas like stairs. Other suggestions include throwing away throw rugs and always wearing shoes with non-skid soles. The National Safety Council advocates having your vision tested at least once a year and getting walkers or canes properly sized by professionals. There are things you can do now if you are concerned about your aging loved ones. Check in with a doctor to make sure older patients are taking their medicine and are doing well living independently. There can also come a time when you need to discuss if the most appropriate option may be to move into a senior living facility.
DIAGRAM:
Safety Measures in the Bathroom: 1. A taller toilet for easier rising and descent. 2. Secured railings besides the toilet or bedside commode placed over the toilet; offer tactile parameters and give lateral support holds for transfer and clothing management. 3. Remove throw rugs. 4. Use a night-light. 5. Use a transfer tub bench and hand held shower nozzle. 6. Use an adjustable height shower chair with back and a hand held shower nozzle and grab bars. 7. Keep your cell phone or cordless phone nearby during bathing Signs that you may need to begin to use an assistive device: 1. You find yourself holding onto furniture when you walk through the house. 2. You shuffle your feet when you walk. 3. You freeze up when you have to step up or down a stair or curb. 4. Use of a shopping cart makes you feel more secure. 5. You have fallen at least twice in the last 3 months.
They say, “home is where the heart is” and as you are faced with deciding where your “heart” belongs, remember to educate yourself on your options. Senior living has come a long way from the poorhouses of old. Gone is the institutionalized feel replaced instead with options geared to provide whatever it is the millions of aging Americans desire: Options that can free loved ones from the obligations, stressors and isolation of growing old at home. Here in Oklahoma, programs implemented by the Oklahoma Health Care Authority (OHCA) ensure facilities provide standard care. They also are creating a cultural change among senior communities by promoting a home environment where residents get to make their own choices, a concept Greenbrier Village has taken and run with. “Each apartment or room with a resident in it is that person’s home within the big community and that’s how it’s set up,” explains Kay Grey who says all Greenbrier facilities employ the “home approach”. Grey serves as a marketing consultant to Greenbrier and has experience in medical management and healthcare marketing. In fact, for over ten years, the Homes of Greenbrier has been teaching and training others how to transition into a Home Care setting with the program: “Welcome Home Oklahoma Project”. The other major shift throughout senior living facilities is the focus on maintaining residents’ independence. For example across every level of housing offered at Greenbrier Village residents make their own choices about what they want to eat, their daily schedule and what activities they want or don’t want to participate in. Seniors today have a choice. Many desire to hold onto their current physical residence yet that can come at a cost. Not only can the day-to-day chores and upkeep become overwhelming there are threats of isolation, depression and safety. For some, moving into a senior community may be the best option. “Leaving their physical residence called home and making a new home at a new place where opportunities await you can improve both the senior’s physical and emotional health,” states Long. “It’s all about finding the most appropriate setting for your loved one.” Long goes on to say moving into a senior community can actually be a freeing experience for older generations. “The freedom comes from becoming more independent again, becoming more social, more secure and having to cope less with the environment and just enjoy the purpose in living.” Growing older is a process, a long process. Modern medicine means the average lifespan is increasing into the late seventies. Long encourages everyone to use the information presented throughout the Growing Through the Years with Grace series to educate and empower yourself on the choices you and your loved ones have as you age. “It’s all about helping you enrich your lives and your relationships,” concludes Long.
WELCOME HOME VETERANS Greenbrier offers discounted rates to veterans at their independent living locations (Burgundy Place and Assisted Living). Veteran’s who need 24 hour care no longer have to leave the Enid area. The Homes of Greenbrier is the only contracted Veteran’s facility in northwest Oklahoma and is home to many Veterans.
WWW.GREENBRIERVILLAGE.ORG
nd d Nursing a le il k S r e ri b n Gree n Center: Rehabilitatio I haven’t seen ne sentence; o in it y sa n ted with “I ca ch! I was trea n u b e th in er s and I a clink in all situation y es rt u co d o. I felt respect an r what they d fo es ye lo p ere. I would respect the em e time I was th th l al le ab rt comfo +.” put it at an A
Burgundy Pla
ce:
“I didn’t have to make friends, I just walked into Burgund y and had them. Eve ryone is so friendly and nice.”
iving:
Assisted L
have, and e choices they th d an u en m ot and fresh. “ I love the s comes out h ay u w al er rd o f checks on yo everything I gs is that staf in th ey te th ri vo ut b fa y, One of my sure I am oka always make ey h rier Assisted T b t. en h re ig n G at though as el fe I e. m s here is more don’t bother one that work ry ve E cility e. m o h need it. The fa I e Living is my m ti y an e o take help m the people wh ve than willing to lo ly al re I d clean. very happy I is very neat an asis. In all, I am b ly ai d a n o care of me moved here.
r: of Greenbrie The Homes I e came her “When I first d to home. I wante wanted to go with g staff home take the nursin id I when they sa d an gh u o th me m glad ided to stay. I’ couldn’t I dec the rest e nurses and that I did. Th their everything in o d f af st e th of care power to take of me.”
19
20
21
22
23
Greenbrier Properties
Burgundy Place
1600 W. Willow - Enid - 580-233-8993
Assisted Living
Secure Senior Apartment Living - One & two bedroom apartments available - 24 hour security - All bills paid including cable tv - Guest apartment for out of town company - Exercise room and planned activities - Full service dining & free transportation - Lifeline emergency response system - Weekly housekeeping & laundry service - Discount for Veterans
1217 E. Garriott - Enid - 580-233-1331
Elegant and Affordable - 54 private rooms (kitchenette, living area, bedroom and private bath) - Full time Registered Nurse - Menu style dining in our Four Seasons Cafe’ - No endowment / No deposit - Social activities and therapy services - Full housekeeping & laundry service - Free transportation - Discount for Veterans
1119 E. Garriott - Enid - 580-233-0121
Finally a Home, Not Your Typical Nursing Home - The first Welcome Home model in Oklahoma, which transforms the institutional style of nursing home care to a true home setting - Enid’s only 5 star Nursing Home as rated by the Oklahoma Health Care Authority’s Focus on Excellence Program - Only contracted facility with VA in Northwest Oklahoma - Affordable private & semi-private rooms - Cafe style dining in the Rose Garden Cafe’
Rogers Home
A Home Offering Memory Support Services - Small home setting where routines are simple & familiar - My Best Friends Approach to Alzheimer’s & Dementia Care - 24 hour supervision - Secured entrances and exists - Daily enrichment activities - Private dining room serving three meals per day
1119 E. Garriott - Enid - 580-233-0121
Skilled Nursing & Rehabilitation
715 S. 10th - Enid, - 580-242-5104
- Full housekeeping & laundry service
A Temporary Stay with Lasting Results - Personalized care designed by staff physician, nursing and therapy personnel - All private rooms in our 27,000 sq. foot facility - Our patients experience 85% return to their original home - Admission 24 hours / 7 days a week - On-site physician clinic, lab & pharmacy - Independent from long term care services
The Homes of Greenbrier do not discriminate against any person on the basis of race, color, national origin, disability, or age in admission, treatment or participation in it programs, services and activities, or in employment. For more information about this policy, contact: 800-722-0353 (Voice/TTY).