REPORT TO THE COMMUNITY 2025
A MESSAGE FROM EILEEN
Dear Friend of LIFE:
I look at the report you are reading as a shareholder’s report. If you are reading this, you likely invest in LIFE Senior Services in some way, whether through funds, time or enthusiasm. So, as you flip through these pages, I hope you see how your generosity is paying off, because it really is.
I was recently in a conversation with a therapist I know. We were chatting about other things, and she said, “Not to change the subject, but the Roma Berry Center is saving lives. I have referred people there, and they all comment on what an impact it has had on their physical and mental health. It is really saving lives.” That statement may seem dramatic, but I actually do not believe it is. The connections being fostered at the Active Senior Center and Adult Day Health are life-changing. I see their impact every day. When we were dreaming of the Roma Berry Campus, we envisioned a place where seniors could come and enjoy community. As I write this today, I can assure you that with your help, we have achieved that goal and more.
LIFE continues to offer robust education and volunteer opportunities, Medicare and tax assistance, case management, caregiver support, Vintage magazine and Vintage Guide to Housing and Services, SeniorLine and medical transportation. It is a diverse portfolio of services but all designed to foster the connections that can keep us independent and engaged. We cannot do it without you, so thank you.
Best,
Eileen Ryan Bradshaw PRESIDENT AND CEO
P.S. Want to see your generosity at work? We hope you will join s for a complimentary lunch and tour of Roma Berry the last Thursday of each month. If you want to attend just email me at eileen.bradshaw@LIFEseniorservices.org and I will set a place for you!
LIFE’S LEADERSHIP TEAM
Samantha Blue
Senior Director of LIFE PACE
Boyd Chitwood Chief Advancement Officer
Bill Copeland Chief Financial Officer
Alysha Hiltbrand
Chief Talent Officer
Roxanne King
Senior Director of Administration
VOLUNTEER AT LIFE
For those drawn to LIFE’s multi-faceted programming in support of seniors, Volunteers for LIFE provides a multitude of engagement opportunities throughout the organization. Participants can help seniors with tax preparation or Medicare Part D assessment, participate with close-knit knitting service groups, as well as assist with LIFE’s amazing events.
LIFE VOLUNTEERS
573
Seniors in LIFE’s Volunteer Program
$2,518,549
Money local nonprofits saved as a result
85,928 Volunteer hours served
VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES
Seniors volunteering through LIFE’s Volunteer Program find purpose and meaning in retirement or before. Studies show that remaining active and involved promotes healthy aging through fruitful endeavor, positive social interactions, and meaningful impact to the community. LIFE maintained partnerships with 138 partner agencies, all of which provide vital services in the Tulsa area.
LIFE can help coordinate the perfect fit for individual schedules and aspirations. Tulsa has an amazing philanthropic sector. LIFE helps seniors make the connections.
CINDY MANCHESTER, THE ‘IT’ PERSON
As an only child, like many others, Cindy was the “it” person to help facilitate the challenges of her aging parents. Now, after LIFE’s Give 5 program, Cindy reaches out so others won’t feel “it” and alone.
“Navigating what to do for my mom was overwhelming after her health challenge became serious. I didn’t know who to call or where to get help. If I had known about LIFE Senior Services then, it would have given me one place to get assistance, and to find out what our options were.”
Given those experiences, Cindy now takes on the role of ambassador. A certified Senior Residential Specialist, Cindy works with many seniors and families to help them think through the unique real estate circumstances faced by older adults. She can also make connections with LIFE so people in similar circumstances know where to get help.
The flexibility of working in real estate offered Cindy the opportunity to participate in LIFE’s Give 5 volunteer matchmaking program. Cindy eagerly utilizes new tools she learned in her Give 5 experiences to help people through her work, and to give of herself through meaningful volunteer opportunities.
NAVIGATING WHAT TO DO FOR MY MOM WAS OVERWHELMING AFTER HER HEALTH CHALLENGE BECAME SERIOUS. I DIDN’T KNOW WHO TO CALL OR WHERE TO GET HELP.
LIFE’S ANNUAL
HOLIDAY PROJECT
1,325
People gifted at the holidays by countless volunteers
The program brings joy and connection to seniors served by LIFE. Holiday gift recipients take heart knowing others value and remember them. Delivered by visitors who care, holiday stockings and gifts both serve seniors’ needs and brighten the season.
GIVE 5 249
Give 5 graduates since inception
Give 5 provides a unique volunteer-matchmaking program connecting people 55 and better with meaningful volunteer opportunities. Following morning classroom sessions and a provided lunch, the group travels on the LIFE bus to tour a variety of programs. Meeting once a week for five weeks, Give 5-ers observe first-hand the consequential services these organizations provide and receive a glimpse of how they can use their talent and passions to make a difference.
Through Give 5, individuals make new, lasting connections and discover volunteer opportunities that bring delight and purpose to their lives.
VINTAGE PUBLICATIONS
58,359 Vintage Magazine readers
20,000
30,000 Tulsa Vintage Guides distributed annually
Oklahoma City Vintage Guides distributed annually
The much loved and award-winning Vintage Magazine focuses on the interests of the 55 and better population. Coverage includes: healthy aging, financial well-being, travel tips, brain games, recipes, things to do around town, and more.
The two Vintage Guides provide people who need senior care options a variety of resources and services both in Northeast and Central Oklahoma. They feature housing options, healthcare, hospice and specialty services, and other senior assistance resources. All three publications have proudly received numerous national and state awards.
View LIFE’s Vintage Publications online @issuu.com/vintagenewsmagazine
While information in print remains the most popular way to read our Vintage publications, digital formats are steadily gaining traction. For instance, more people in their 40s are caring for older loved ones. They and others prefer accessing information online. To meet this demand, LIFE is expanding its digital offerings — providing news, resources, unbiased information, and engaging content on topics relevant to seniors and caregivers. Our twice-monthly digital newsletter now reaches 9,000 subscribers.
LOOKING AHEAD
Medical Transportation – Studies have shown up to 24% of Americans delay important medical care because of challenges in their transportation. LIFE wants to support the health of Tulsa seniors in that.
During the Pandemic, LIFE began to serve seniors by simply getting them to the doctor on time. Medical transportation was a challenge, and the need didn’t disappear with the Pandemic. Some of the special funding for that service did evaporate.
We are weaving together new funding to continue that vital service. It’s just beginning, but we are hopeful that LIFE can be a support for senior health through transportation.
TRANSPORTATION
503
Number of individual seniors served
31,684
One-way trips for LIFE PACE medical appointments and to seniors at large
Obstacles to transportation create barriers to good health and vigor for many seniors. Whether obtaining healthy food, getting to medical appointments, or ensuring social interactions, a lack of access to resources deters independence and vitality. LIFE’s fleet of vehicles helps aging-in-place people with their basic needs. Amenities include wheelchairaccessible passenger vans that can comfortably accommodate everyone regardless of their mobility needs.
LIFE’s helpful drivers give PACE participants and other riders a safe and dependable way to attend Adult Day Health, get to needed healthcare appointments, or go grocery shopping.
ELDER ABUSE ADVOCATES
532
Seniors Supported by Elder Abuse Program
Elder Abuse can occur when a spouse, family member, or caregiver threatens, or acts to physically abuse someone. Other instances occur when someone takes advantage of financial or other resources through stealth or by force. LIFE’s professional staff works in cooperation with DVIS, other area agencies, and local law enforcement to advocate for, and guide seniors from threatening situations to safety.
According to Oklahoma Adult Protective Services (APS):
Only about 20% of people experiencing abuse or neglect actually report it.
After establishing a protected situation, LIFE’s Independent Case Managers can assist each individual to navigate the changes involved in this major life adjustment.
In 2024, the 16 counties in NE OK, which includes Tulsa, accepted new investigation and service cases.
5,509
SENIORLINE
7,906 SeniorLine calls answered
THANK YOU FOR YOUR TIME AND PATIENCE! YOU GAVE ME SOME HOPE AFTER TALKING TO ALL THE MACHINES. I’VE BEEN ON THE PHONE ALL DAY!
– Janice, Served by SeniorLine
What happens when a novel situation presents itself to a senior, caregiver, or anyone who needs accurate information? What happens when you need a critical or mundane answer that you can’t find on Google? SeniorLine offers a single place to get answers and direction. Whether a simple question or a complex family situation, LIFE’s well-trained staff provide invaluable instant access to hundreds of local and state resources, including LIFE’s Case Management.
When you or someone you know seeks crisis help, information, or referrals, make SeniorLine the first place to call with questions about aging, services, or unique situations.
CAREGIVER SUPPORT
When an adult son, whose mother currently resides in a memory care center, called for emotional support, LIFE offered multiple paths of assistance. The mother’s dementia was getting worse and she struggled by reliving traumatic events from her past. Although the son knew he could no longer care for her, and the center provided the best alternative, he felt guilt regarding her placement. LIFE’s Caregiver Support provided local support groups resources and a behavioral health referral for grief counseling.
FOOD INSECURITY
On the verge of desperation, a caller was looking for food pantries in the neighborhood. Knowing that food insecurity often presents as a first symptom to a larger set of issues, LIFE’s SeniorLine professional took a second look. After locating the hotel used as a temporary home, LIFE provided information for agencies with wrap-around services within walking distance.
LEGAL ASSISTANCE
Looking for affordable legal assistance, a recent caller wanted a list of attorneys included in LIFE’s Vintage Guide to Housing and Resources. She just moved into an apartment and her Guide was packed away. Through a brief conversation with our specialist, it was discovered that an eviction notice was received, although she just recently moved in. Living on low-income wages, LIFE provided her with information regarding Legal Aid Services to assist her with any legal advice.
FINDING SOLUTIONS
When facing a crisis many people, especially seniors, can get tunnel vision which makes it difficult to think clearly, see available options, and begin to problem solve. Fortunately, SeniorLine staff can ask relevant question and help seniors facing challenges take a breath, stop and think, and help find resources to solve a wide variety of problems.
CAREGIVER SUPPORT SERVICES
894
Caregiver support clients served
MENS CAREGVER SUPPORT GROUP
LIFE has a new male caregiver support group. When meeting with other male caregivers, men more often can share their needs and see them met for their good and the good of the one they love.
360 Annual support group attendance
When providing primary support to a loved one, many people confront new, challenging circumstances. Caregivers frequently describe frustration facing new demanding situations. Many also report guilt and burnout trying to balance work and other life priorities while giving their loved-one the care they need. Assistance from LIFE’s Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) offers caregivers counseling, consultation, resources, and support. Action plans help direct strategies and improve everyone’s quality of life. Support groups, with peers confronting similar circumstances, as well as information seminars provide additional resources to boost a caregiver’s abilities.
Supported caregivers can better care for themselves and provide a safe, nurturing environment for the people who rely on them.
BEHAVIORAL HEALTH
1,680
Seniors referred for assistance
With the strong connection between mental and behavioral health to overall health and independence, LIFE continues to engage in partnerships with Family and Children’s Services. LIFE’s case managers can make referrals to one of LIFE’s professional partners who will assist seniors with individual and/or couples counseling, support groups, and crisis management.
Mental health issues frequently addressed can include:
Isolation
Depression
Cognitive decline
Other senior concerns
MANY SENIORS EXPRESS BEHAVIORAL HEALTH
NEEDS. LIFE HAS A THRIVING NETWORK OF PARTNERS FOR REFERRALS.
CASE MANAGEMENT
4,448
People supported by independent case managers
LIFE’S STAFF HELP
ASSESS NEEDS AND ASSIST IN COORDINATING COMMUNITY RESOURCES AND REFERRALS.
Seniors face a multitude of risks to their independence. In addition, while aging and experiencing new circumstances, it is common to need help from someone well informed on community resources. Issues case managers help navigate range across emergency financial applications, Section 8 paperwork, veterans’ issues, behavioral or mental health referrals, resources for affordable medical supplies, social engagement opportunities, SNAP applications, and so much more.
This personalized care helps participants remain safe and self-sustaining.
COME IN FROM THE COLD
Just before the Thanksgiving holiday with cold weather setting in, Renee lost her electricity. Unable to pay her bill, she looked for help and called SeniorLine.
At age 69 and living alone, Renee faced financial hardship after dealing with fraud on her bank account, a major factor in her inability to pay her bill. She became discouraged and frustrated with the lack of help she received from multiple calls. By the time she contacted LIFE, her home had been without power for a few days.
Sherita, one of LIFE’s case managers, knew some agencies that were most likely to help under the circumstances. “I made some calls and left a few voice mails. Then, one of our local partners contacted me and stated they would be able to help.”
LIFE’s case managers know senior needs and the supports for them. Renee’s power was restored, and she was extremely grateful. The trust and support you provide LIFE Senior Services means people like Renee will have a place to turn when they need to come in from the cold. Thank you.
LIFE’S CASE MANAGERS KNOW SENIOR NEEDS AND THE SUPPORTS FOR THEM.
LIFE EDU
73
Number of LIFE EDU presentations held
1,123
LIFE EDU also presents the largest senior event in Oklahoma with the Senior LIFEstyle & Wellness Expo held each summer at Expo Square. The event features hundreds of information booths, presentations, lively entertainment, and other helpful services throughout the day.
New programs this year
Attendees received educational resources, experiences, and additional skills 17
LIFE EDU offers a wide array of resources at no cost. Classes feature experts from the greater Tulsa area and provide enjoyable opportunities for participants of any age to continue learning. Enjoy classes for fun like Online Dating or Introduction to Artificial Intelligence and for health. Look for topics such as legal and financial issues; art appreciation; diabetes, Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s and other health education programs; Basics of Medicare; seminars for caregivers; and smartphone photography tips among others. Additionally, LIFE EDU offers continuing education opportunities for professionals who participate in aging services.
LOOKING AHEAD
COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIPS
LIFE EDU is beginning to build outreach partnerships with both Tulsa Opera and Tulsa Parks and Recreation for senior programming across the city.
MEDICARE ASSISTANCE PROGRAM
(MAP)
4,216
Seniors reviewed coverage options through MAP
$2,570,710 Saved in prescription drug costs
Knowing the complications that medical insurance can present to seniors, LIFE helps de-mystify Medicare through the Medicare Assistance Program (MAP).
Oklahoma’s most comprehensive counseling service provides participants with information and assistance relating to Medicare, Medicare supplements, Medicare Advantage, long-term care, and other related health coverage plans. MAP at LIFE also provides unbiased information, education, and personal assistance in selecting and enrolling in a Medicare Part D plan. As a result of changes with medical insurance plans each year, annually assessing one’s coverage is essential to avoid overpaying on prescription drug costs. LIFE’s MAP program provides astonishing savings for many people.
Trained volunteers can also help participants apply for financial assistance to help pay prescription drug costs. The program serves Medicare beneficiaries, their representatives, or persons soon to be eligible for Medicare.
TAX ASSISTANCE PROGRAM
5,916
Seniors contacted LIFE for tax information
1,888
Taxpayers assisted by LIFE’s TAP volunteers
For participants, LIFE sets appointments to ensure they see a friendly volunteer in a timely manner. THE SERVICE RUNS FROM FEBRUARY UNTIL APRIL 15.
Having the opportunity to receive expert help to accurately prepare, and timely file federal and state taxes removes a significant point of stress for many seniors. LIFE’s trained Tax Assistance Program (TAP) specialists offer basic tax counseling, preparation, and electronic filing for people at no cost. People age 60 and above with an annual income of $68,000 (for 2025 season) or less can access the program at no cost.
LIFE remains the only IRS-certified, non-AARP Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE) site in Oklahoma.
ADULT DAY HEALTH
3 Number of ADH Sites
30,704
314
Total participants served
Total days of care and services for all participants
Many of the caregivers who bring someone to Adult Day Health (ADH) would categorize ADH as “something amazing for my loved one, and it helps me too.” LIFE designed ADH to provide the care needed for seniors to remain living at home who need somewhere safe to go during the day. Frequently their caregivers have daytime work, other responsibilities, or need respite. ADH provides an option for seniors to experience a safe, friendly, and therapeutic setting.
The abundant array of daily activities, health, and personal care enriches participants’ physical and mental capabilities. The staff and facilities all meet rigorous certification standards in order to provide the highest quality care, but it’s the personal connections and care of staff and participants that makes ADH a remarkable place to call “my day home.”
YOU GIVE SUCH ATTENTIVE CARE.
I BRAG ON THE PROGRAM TO EVERYONE. I AM ABLE TO CONTINUE WORKING, KNOWING THAT MY HUSBAND IS SAFE AND LOVED.
– Tina, Caregiver
Donor support established a director-level position driving a calendar bursting with life, health, and fun at Roma Berry. One yoga class became seven distinct skilllevel classes teamed with 50 hours of pickleball. We added barre classes, theater performance, clay and pottery, Scrabble club, monthly movie days, outings, more social gatherings and dances with so much more to come.
ACTIVE SENIOR CENTER
1,305
Active Senior Center Members
5,878*
Activities offered to active adults age 50+
*This number reflects that in 2024 the active Senior Center was closed during the period of transition to Roma Berry. Watch for an increase for 2025 with a full year of activities.
Serving as gathering sites for the area’s active 50 and better community, LIFE’s Active Senior Center at Roma Berry creatively engages and empowers local seniors. The new Roma Berry center facilitates increased program content with flexible spaces and an expanded schedule including some evenings and weekends. Older adults who can operate independently enjoy a rich variety of programs that support healthy aging. With a little something for everyone, seniors can find a combination of social, creative, educational, and fitness events that fill the calendar.
Participants relish activities such as line dancing, card games, pickleball, art, music, theater, and so much more.
WHEN IT COMES TO PLAYING PICKLEBALL
“LIFE Senior Services is the only place that we can socialize. At most of the other pickleball courts, people just want to go and play and win and play. We always carry on a conversation, talk about our grandkids and whatever it is you are doing today. We have a good time getting to know each other. We want to know everybody’s name, so we wear nametags.
“A new person once asked me if our pickleball group had known each other for a really long time. I told her we make friends quickly here, because we don’t just play. We sit with each other and talk. I love it.”
- Rosa, Active Senior Center Member
A NEW PERSON ONCE ASKED ME IF OUR PICKLEBALL GROUP HAD KNOWN EACH OTHER FOR A REALLY LONG TIME. I TOLD HER WE MAKE FRIENDS QUICKLY HERE...
– Rosa, Active Senior Center Member
LIFE PACE
An affiliate of LIFE Senior Services
279 Participants
22,063 Hours of home care provided
13,860 Home visits
THE PACE PROGRAM
RESULTS IN OLDER ADULTS
MAINTAINING DIGNITY AND INDEPENDENCE IN THEIR HOME FOR AS LONG AS POSSIBLE.
For people who wish to continue living at home when they otherwise could not safely do so, LIFE offers the Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly. PACE offers absolutely comprehensive senior healthcare for those who qualify. The collaborative work among medical professionals, nutritionists, and social workers, as well as physical, speech, and occupational therapists maximizes independence and positive health outcomes, while dramatically reducing hospitalization rates.
In addition, LIFE’s Home Care support staff assist with tasks like grocery shopping, cooking, housecleaning, personal care, and grooming. Specialists inspect and modify the home environment to ensure proper safety measures such as grab bars and wheelchair accessibility. Regardless of mobility needs, participants receive transportation to the LIFE PACE/Adult Day Health Centers for healthcare, services, nutritious meals, and special activities.
VINTAGE HOUSING
An affiliate of LIFE Senior Services
19 Vintage Housing apartment complexes
702* Seniors living independently in affordable housing
* One property has a temporary reduction of units during property refresh.
The shortage of affordable housing in the Tulsa area presents a significant hurdle for seniors of limited means. LIFE’s award-winning housing program offers a safe, clean, affordable option. Residents live in independent apartments. Each village provides common spaces for social encounters and opportunities for friendships to flourish. This design feature can also easily facilitate a range of community services. Apartments include a full-size kitchen, comfortable living area, private bath, and either one or two bedrooms.
Vintage Housing fosters independence and social interaction. It offers residents the ability to age in place with dignity.
GETTING FURTHER ALONG IN MY SENIOR YEARS, I’M MORE APPRECIATIVE OF MY APARTMENT EVERY YEAR. DIFFERENT THINGS HAPPEN AS YOU GET OLDER AND I JUST LOVE IT HERE.
– Phyllis, 13-year Vintage resident
GETTING THE WORD OUT...
…there is support for seniors and their independence
For LIFE to work for seniors, we need service programs, but we also need seniors to know about them. We’re sharing that word through every available media channel – local TV stations, radio, newspaper, podcasts, social media, and influencers. Almost all of that media is free, as a public service.
By our media audit service this year, we have shared with a substantial audience:
10.7 MILLION Audience reach
Whether through TV features, news articles, or social media buzz, we’re proud to share our story and advocate for the seniors we serve.
THIS IS LIFE
LIFE’S Senior Campus and Roma Berry Center for Seniors
4821 S. 72nd E. Ave., Tulsa
• LIFE’s Adult Day Health Center
• LIFE PACE Clinic*
• LIFE’s Active Senior Center
North Tulsa
902 E. Pine St., Tulsa
• LIFE’s Adult Day Health Center
• LIFE PACE Clinic*
Broken Arrow
3106 S. Juniper Ave., Broken Arrow
• LIFE’s Adult Day Health Center
• PACE Alternative Care Site*
Central Tulsa
5950 E. 31st St., Tulsa
• Medicare Assistance Program (MAP)
• Tax Assistance Program (TAP)
• SeniorLine
• Independent Case Management
• Caregiver Support Services
• Behavioral Health
• Elder Abuse Support Advocate
Legacy Plaza
5330 E. 31st St., Ste. 800, Tulsa
• LIFE’s Vintage Publications
• LIFE’s Volunteer Program
• ADvantage Case Management
• Administration
Creek County Volunteer Site 19 N. Main St., Sapulpa
Wagoner County Volunteer Site
308 E. Church St., Wagoner
VINTAGE HOUSING*
Locations in Tulsa and the surrounding areas, including Jenks, Owasso, Bixby, Broken Arrow, Coweta, Sapulpa, Collinsville, Glenpool, Bristow, Skiatook and Sand Springs
* LIFE PACE and Vintage Housing are affiliate programs of LIFE Senior Services.
To everyone who put their trust in LIFE Senior Services to support seniors through your generous contributions, volunteering, or advocacy, thank you!
To promote and preserve independence for seniors.
OUR MISSION OUR VALUES
CLIENT CENTERED
Develop healthy, compassionate relationships with those that we serve and continually strive to support our mission in all that we do.
COLLABORATIVE
Build effective relationships and demonstrate concern for meeting others needs in an exceptional manner.
ADAPTABLE
Cooperate and work collaboratively towards solutions, remain openminded, flexible and demonstrate a willingness to learn.
EXCEPTIONAL STEWARDS
Manage resources responsibly including time, money and property.
SELF-RESPONSIBLE
Be accountable for actions in regards to personal and professional responsibilities and pay attention to detail.
RESPECTFUL OF OTHERS
Create an atmosphere of valuing and accepting others.