(see more issues below)
Hip Replacement with Shorter Recovery Time
Funeral Preplanning Reduces Stress
Remember Veazey's Drug Stores?
Keith Gibson, DDS, Caregiver, Craftsman, & Surgeon
Renew and restore your good vision
to “see” as young as you feel!
Arthritis Afflicts Thousands of Americans
in a Variety of Manifestations
Summer-Spring, 2009-10
SENIOR ADVOCATE: Attorney Phillip Scott Spratt
Spring-Winter, 2008-09
What to Bring to a Nursing Home
Location Matters When Choosing a Care Facility
Spring-Fall, 2007
Easing the Burden for Loved Ones
Seven Things Everyone Should Know About
Planning a Funeral
Building on Care and Compassion -
Compassionate Care Hospice
Choosing a Nursing Facility for a Loved One
Can Be a Difficult Decision
Dollars and Cents: Medicare Premiums and Deductibles for 2007
Spring-Fall, 2006
Solving the Visual Puzzle with John P. Belardo, M.D.
Johnnie's Charcoal Broilers ... one of Life's Little Comforts
to feature
Dr. Edward A. Shadid, Spine & Pain Care of Oklahoma, in the current issue.
A relatively new advancement in pain relief, neurostimulation broadens the spectrum of possibilities for patients suffering from a variety of debilitating disorders by blocking the nerve signals responsible for chronic pain. For many the key to a more active lifestyle, candidates for therapy include those requiring reparation of failed back and neck surgeries and individuals afflicted by peripheral neuropathy resulting from such conditions as diabetes and chemotherapy. Patients with occipital headaches and peripheral vascular disease may also benefit from neurostimulation as it opens blood vessels too small for bypass for improved circulation.
A reversible, outpatient treatment designed to bring pain to a tolerable level, this cutting-edge technology represents a shift to more minimally invasive options with higher rates of success than are typical in more complex surgical alternatives that often require multiple subsequent procedures. Dr. Edward Shadid employs this method at both his Oklahoma City and Lawton offices, implanting two wires along the spinal cord that connect to a generator above the hip. Installed under conscious sedation, the mechanism runs on a rechargeable pacemaker battery. Minimum and maximum levels of stimulation are set in the office and are controlled by the patient according to personal activity level through a handheld device. By targeting a combination of sixteen specific points, it is programmed to isolate the exact origin of pain. As patients are effectively awake during the procedure, they are asked questions to gauge tolerability and direct location, ultimately providing a uniquely individualized experience.
A native Oklahoman, Dr. Shadid returned to the state where members of his family have been practicing medicine since 1907 after obtaining his undergraduate degree at Northwestern University in Chicago. Following his graduation from the OU Health Sciences Center in 1995, he continued his education through the Columbia University Network and is Board Certified in Orthopedic Surgery. He found himself drawn to this area of expertise by rapidly developing technology that offers patients many more options than were available in the past. Dr. Shadid’s approach encompasses all aspects of care through a hybrid of interventional pain management and spinal surgery that eliminates the need for visits to multiple specialists. Drawing upon the diverse elements of his training, he is able to individualize treatment plans for each patient that incorporate the least invasive options with the greatest possible opportunity for long-term efficacy.
Trish Ryan of Oklahoma City, pictured with Dr. Shadid on the front cover, suffered from shooting pain down her legs resulting from scoliosis, stenosis, and a herniated disc that prevented her from walking more than a few steps without rest and assistance. Dr. Shadid performed a vertebral fusion in April of 2004 when injections and other therapy were not sufficient. “He gave me back the ability to function normally,” she says. “I do Pilates, volunteer four days each week, and can play with my grandchildren. I’m very fortunate. The procedure totally took care of the pain.”
Oklahoma City resident Carla Mason, PA-C, upon whom Dr. Shadid also performed a lumbar fusion in 2004, credits his “expert surgical skills and knowledge” with her recovery following a previous failed procedure by another doctor on her degenerative arthritis and a herniated disc. “He listens to his patients and I think that really contributes to the success in his work.” Although his main practice is located in Oklahoma City, his Lawton office as well as the several satellite locations throughout the state offer more convenient alternatives for regular office visits and care.
Dr. Shadid is a devoted father of three whose community involvement includes medical missions and support of Calm Waters, a foundation for children and adults affected by the grief of death and divorce. He also conducts educational seminars for private entities. The ambassador program operated through his office provides candidates for spinal cord stimulation with a connection to other patients who offer real-world answers for questions and concerns regarding all aspects of the procedure and its effect on their lives.
Phillip Robinson of Peyton, Oklahoma credits neurostimulation with his ability to continue working and to in turn maintain his health insurance coverage. His employment as a process engineer operating machinery weighing hundreds of tons precludes the possibility of taking pain medication. Unable to walk even fifty feet in a position that requires him to be alert and on his feet full-time, it appeared that Robinson’s only option was to quit until Dr. Shadid intervened in December of last year: “Without this procedure, there’s no way I could have kept my job.” For an appointment, call 405-840-5100 (OKC metro area) or 580-699-2499 (Lawton), or check our website.
We are the first and longest-running publication for “Seniors” in the Oklahoma market, we are pleased to present our NEW and larger formatted issue for our seventeenth anniversary edition! In addition to the informative articles and colorful pages, the directory is sure to be of assistance in all aspects of life.
We are honored to feature Dr. Edward A. Shadid of Spine and Pain Care of Oklahoma on our Front Cover. Devoted to the individual needs and thorough recovery of his patients, his efforts to maintain their active lifestyles through cutting edge medical technology make him a true asset to the Seniors of Oklahoma. Please be sure to read the article detailing his revolutionary techniques in pain management through neurostimulation beginning on page two.
Be sure to visit us online for up-to-date events and special “Senior” announcements!
If you are considering hip replacement surgery, here is some good news. Midwest Regional Medical Center now offers a procedure which minimizes the pain and recovery time for patients.
The anterior approach to hip replacement surgery allows the surgeon to reach the hip joint from the front of the hip as opposed to the lateral (side) or the posterior (back) approach. Jeff Duncan, D.O, orthopedic surgeon at Midwest Regional, is specially trained in this procedure and is the only orthopedic surgeon in the Oklahoma City metro currently offering the anterior approach.
“Patients experience a quicker recovery with this approach because the major muscle groups surrounding the hip are not detached as they are in conventional hip surgery,” Dr. Duncan explained. “The gluteal muscles, which attach to the pelvis and femur and are the most important for hip function, are left undisturbed and, therefore, do not require a healing process to recover from surgical trauma,” he says.
According to Patrick Fisher who recently had the procedure, his recovery has been a “breeze.”
“I was up walking the day after surgery and participated in the Midwest Regional Joint Club group exercises twice a day,” he says. “After three weeks, I no longer needed to use a walker, just a cane.”
For more information on anterior hip replacement, or to schedule an appointment with Dr. Duncan, please call 737-2474 or check our website.
“Funerals are not a pleasant subject to contemplate, and they are often very stressful and expensive events. Planning a funeral in advance can alleviate some stress on remaining family and friends,” states the Better Business Bureau Serving Metropolitan New York.
The death of a loved one is always stressful. Preplanning helps to answer questions like: Did she want a traditional funeral with burial or cremation? Where should we have the service, or what music would she want?
Often, family members and friends worry about making poor choices. Preplanning can help your family make better choices and reduce the difficult decisions. “Thinking ahead can help you make informed and thoughtful decisions about funeral arrangements. It allows you to choose the specific items you want and need and compare the prices offered by several funeral providers,” advises the Federal Trade Commission.
Preplanning can also be done at your convenience, allowing you to make informed decisions. Preplanning can help to protect you from inflation by securing today’s pricing. It also allows your family time to support one another and to celebrate the life that you lived.
One of the best ways to preplan is to put your thoughts in writing. Most funeral homes provide, free of charge, a “Personal Planning Guide,” to document your choices in a clear and concise manner for you and your loved ones.
Prearranging your funeral or cremation service is a decision only you can make, but affects the people you love most. Call Dignity Memorial, 800-344-6489 or 405-672-5885 or check our website.
Forty-five years and counting, or should we say over 100 years serving Oklahomans? The Veazey Drug stores opened in 1906 and had 22 locations at their glory. “Get it at Veazey’s” was their motto, providing old fashion sodas and fried chicken sandwiches along with a friendly pharmacist offering everything but the kitchen sink. The drug stores are gone now, but not the family tradition, which supports Bill Veazey’s Rehab & Home Care Equipment’s “We Can Help” attitude.
With the third and fourth generation of Veazeys at the helm, we are still serving the medical equipment and supply needs of Oklahomans by providing service with a smile and taking the extra step to ensure you’re getting the proper equipment to meet your needs.
Mobility products such as three- and four-wheel walkers, canes, wheelchairs and scooters, as well as aids to daily living products; diabetic supplies, lift chairs, hospital beds, oxygen equipment and more are available to rent or purchase.
Opened in 1964 by Bill Veazey, son of the Veazey Drug Store founder, a family tradition continues with his daughter, Stephanie, and her children, Rachael and Sean. We want to provide the best quality equipment, education and service to our seniors. If we can’t provide it, we will find someone who can. My dad taught me early on that service is the key, and to treat all customers with respect.
Give us a call at 843-8886. We bill Medicare and most insurance; we are accredited and have a staff with over 100 years experience.
Come by and visit our showroom at 945 W. Wilshire. We have several pictures of the old Veazey Drug Stores enlarged in black and white for all to see. Everyone enjoys hearing stories about the old drug stores and we would love to hear yours.
Remember, we can help with everything except the kitchen sink! Call Bill Veazey's Rehab & Home Care Equipment & Supplies at 405-843-8886 or check our website.
As a dentist who performs such varied roles as caregiver, craftsman, and surgeon, Dr. Keith Gibson’s extensive knowledge and expertise translates into personalized care of the highest caliber for his patients. Utilizing state of the art 3D imaging and materials, his practice offers a full-service Oklahoma City clinic that includes such services as fillings, cleanings, implants, dentures, veneers, crowns, and root canals.
Dr. Gibson’s forte is cosmetic dentistry through the custom creation of both removable appliances and more permanent options. Many seniors find that implants, especially for the lower teeth, improve overall fit and function. The superior quality and attention to detail in his work is accentuated by the fact that he has been personally hand-crafting dentures for over twenty years, an additional measure that few of his colleagues perform themselves. A relatively new treatment, implants can provide patients that require either minimal or extensive reconstruction with a long-term alternative that involves replacement of the root. Time is of the essence: progressive deterioration of bone due to tooth loss requires increasingly greater effort to remedy and is irreversible without physical intervention. Bone is much like muscle in that it can atrophy without proper care and maintenance. Grafting procedures and implants, both for prevention and repair, stop bone dissolution while sustaining existing structure and can be of significant aid in maintaining dental health. Dr. Gibson works closely with Harvard-trained Reconstructive ENT, Dr. Jose Sanclement of OU Physicians, on these surgeries to promote bone growth in anticipation of the placement of implants.
Dr. Gibson attended dental school at the University of Oklahoma and although continuing education in the field is required for the maintenance of licensure, he has gone over and above the obligations of his profession to remain on the cutting edge through extensive training at some of the most prestigious cosmetic and implant dentistry institutions in the world. Noting that technology has completely altered the field in the twenty-five years since his graduation, he emphasizes the exciting options offered to patients through the availability of new techniques and equipment. Dental progress is so important to Dr. Gibson that he has spent more time and financial resources improving upon his knowledge base than it originally took to obtain his degree.
Dr. Gibson volunteers with Meals on Wheels through St. Luke’s United Methodist Church. Sarinda, his wife of twenty-two years, has worked with the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society for years to raise awareness and funds. His son, Samuel, served as a Marine in Iraq and his daughter, Hannah, is a junior in high school.
Through his energetic, hands-on approach to dentistry and focus on individualized care, Dr. Gibson goes above and beyond to ensure that every patient is satisfied with the appearance and functionality of their teeth and gums. Call Dr. Gibson, 405-942-6222.
There are a number of reasons families are choosing cremation today. Simplicity, cost, ecological factors and saving our resources of land are just a few of the many that have been a determining factor for selecting cremation.
Affordable Cremation Service was established by the Whinery family in 1999 and has been taking care of families in Oklahoma for nearly sixty years. Over the past eleven years, thousands of families have taken advantage of Affordable Cremation Service caring, compassionate and professional service. Brad Whinery, co-owner with his wife, Glenda, Carl Billey and Chris Whinery says, “We feel our success has been ratified by the number of our clients who have called again for other family and friends.
We have always believed in giving families one price, without any hidden charges, that includes all cost and fees associated with the cremation. We have always measured our success by how we help the families we serve.” Affordable Cremation Service has become the leader setting the standard in cremations that other funeral homes and cremation societies try to follow. Call Affordable Cremation Service, 405-521-8777, or check our website.
Many people consider long term care (LTC) insurance to protect hard-earned assets when one needs care. Oklahoma’s Long-Term Care Partnership (okltcpartnership.org), a fairly new state program, helps achieve this goal. This “partnership” between the state & private insurance benefits our residents in planning ahead for LTC (home care, assisted living facilities, nursing homes) which is generally not covered by Medicare or regular health insurance.
Qualifying for Medicaid (Sooner Care in Oklahoma), which pays for nursing homes for those with limited resources, can be difficult as one needs to “spend down” assets and/or have limited monthly income.
LTC partnership policies help protect assets regarding this “spend down.” A person’s health qualifies and purchases a LTC partnership policy that pays, for example, $200,000 in benefits. If the policyholder keeps needing care after the $200,000 is used, one might then make a decision to apply for Medicaid. However, because the policy paid out $200,000 in benefits, Medicaid protects $200,000 in assets by “disregarding” what normally would be spent down.
LTC partnership policies must be approved by the Oklahoma Insurance Department and meet required inflation guidelines. It is important when considering this protection to work with a qualified Partnership approved-LTC specialist. Call Mantooth-Schwab Associates, 405-703-0663 & 405-703-0435.
Imagine seeing clearly…near, far and in-between without glasses! Advances in technology make it possible for most patients to read the words on prescription bottles, magazines, newspapers and computer screens, without wearing magnifying glasses or bifocals, while still clearly seeing objects at a distance.
It’s called “full-focus” and it’s possible with an innovative category of intraocular lens implants (IOLs) used in cataract surgery by the physicians of BVA Advanced Eye Care.
At BVA, we begin with a thorough clinical assessment and a discussion of your lifestyle to determine which IOL option will be best suited for your vision needs. The newest IOL technologies are designed to give patients back their youthful vision by correcting vision at any distance, and in most lighting conditions — even in low light!
To achieve clear vision, the cataract is removed and replaced with the new artificial lens. The procedure only takes a few minutes and is performed on an outpatient basis.
Lens replacement remains the most frequently performed and safest surgery in the U.S. and BVA boasts one of the most experienced groups of eye care professionals available in Oklahoma. Our doctors, surgeons, and surgical staff have collectively performed more than 125,000 procedures. And, as the largest cataract practice in the state, more than 400 of Oklahoma's eye doctors refer their patients to the experienced doctors of BVA Advanced Eye Care.
Working in partnership with medical professionals statewide allows our patients to receive the best in advanced eye care in a safe, caring environment - close to home. For more information about the services and care BVA provides, please call us at (405) 752-2733, or toll-free 1-888-323-3937, or please visit us online at www.bva20-20.com.
Hearing loss is one of the most prevalent health issues. In fact, according to the Better Hearing Institute, over 30 million Americans are affected by hearing loss, which leads to anxiety, depression, and isolation.
If you suspect yourself or a loved one may be experiencing hearing loss, answering the following questions is a good place to start:
• Do people seem to mumble?
• Do you have to ask people to repeat what they have said?
• Do you have trouble following conversations in noisy environments, such as restaurants?
• Do other people comment that the volume on your television or radio is too loud for their comfort?
If you have answered yes to any of these questions, you may have hearing loss. Since medical doctors do not routinely screen hearing, a visit to a specialized hearing care professional may be best. At Heritage Hearing Aid Center, the hearing examination and consultation are provided at no cost.
Today’s hearing instruments are very advanced with exceptional sound quality, comfort, and ease of operation. Also, modern hearing technology is generally small and very discrete to the point of being almost imperceptible. These are NOT your grandparent’s hearing aids! Call 405-787-4434 for an appointment or check our website.
Problems with her legs had landed Roxie in the hospital many times over the last ten years.
Sometimes, it was the severe pain; sometimes, it was the awful swelling; and sometimes it was the inevitable sores that formed and kept coming back. The 85-year-old had suffered through several bouts of cellulitis and staph infections. Each time, Roxie went in, it seemed to take longer to get out of the hospital and get back to independent living.
Finally, the mother, grandmother, and Sam’s warehouse sample lady visited the Midwest Regional Medical Center Wound Care Center. There she received attention to her pain, her swelling, her sores, and her soul. Roxie was treated with special dressings, medical wraps, and with “kid gloves” from all the professionals at the Center. Her doctor, Elaine Soter, MD, ordered a simple test that showed that some of Roxie’s leg problems were due to an abnormality in her veins. The simple ultrasound test led Roxie to KathyLee Santangelo, MD, at the Total Vein Care Center where she had a simple outpatient procedure to treat the abnormal vein in her left leg.
That procedure was performed in August and by October, Roxie’s wound was healed. She was back to independent living and driving herself to Midwest Regional Physical Therapy where her new best friend, Kristi Dillinger, RPT, helped her keep her legs in the best shape they had been in for the past ten years.
Teamwork is crucial when it comes to your health! You can count on the professionals at Midwest Regional Medical Center Wound Care Center and the Total Vein Care Center to help you heal your old sores and put you back in the driver’s seat! Call Total Vein Care Center, 405-739-6596. Our websites: www.varicoseveins-okc.com and www.santangelo-okc.com
The most common type, osteoarthritis, is a degenerative process of cartilage and bone affecting joints such as the knees, hips, and hands. The spine is also susceptible in the form of degenerative disc disease, particularly in the cervical (neck) and lumbar (low back) regions. These types of osteoarthritis are mechanical conditions through which pain is associated with activity.
In contrast to osteoarthritis, there are many types of inflammatory joint conditions where symptoms are present even without movement. The most common, rheumatoid arthritis, attacks synovial fluid surrounding joints and is often referred to as “crippling arthritis.” Other forms may be related to skin conditions (psoriatic arthritis) or may involve swelling and foot pain (gout). Ankylosing spondylitis patients report spine stiffness which is worse in the morning.
Although arthritis is generally progressive, new treatments are available to alleviate pain and in many cases halt the progression of disease altogether. Recently developed medications are very sophisticated, targeting the cause of arthritis while restoring function and allowing individuals to resume activities previously prohibited by debilitating pain. Patients continue to benefit from advancements in research both after approval and through participation in cutting-edge investigational studies. For an appointment, call Health Research of Oklahoma, Dr. Chris Codding, (405) 702-6770.
Quality Life Hospice is one of less than 10% of Oklahoma hospice organizations to achieve national accreditation and was founded locally by experienced hospice health care professionals out of a true passion for end-of-life care. At Quality Life, we realize that we are only as good as our people and believe our staff is second to none. As a dedicated team, we work together to serve our patients and their families with dignity and compassion. Carmen, a Guthrie resident, noted, “Each member of Quality Life Hospice synchronized to provide excellent care so my husband could depart with dignity; he received compassionate and efficient attention.”
We pride ourselves in providing exceptional care and expect our staff to go above and beyond the call of duty. When reflecting on the care we provided to her mother, Dori of Edmond said, “They treated our mother like she was their own.” The hospice team is available any time of the day or night and is always responsive to the needs and concerns of our patients and their families whether physical, emotional, or spiritual. Pam, of McLoud, was comforted to know that her loved one had “such a remarkable group of people caring for him. You’ve always answered our questions and returned our phone calls to ease our minds and kept us from becoming even more anxious.”
Quality Life also strives, whenever possible, to grant the final wishes of our patients to help promote their peace of mind. Whether that means locating and reuniting the patient with an estranged family member or organizing a special family Christmas celebration in July.
To request services or learn more about employment or volunteer opportunities with Quality Life Hospice give us a call at 405-767-9033 or check our website. “In the end, it’s not the years in your life that count. It’s the life in your years.” - Abraham Lincoln
The Fountains at Canterbury’s history of outstanding service and care to Oklahoma seniors is unmatched. Nestled on 39 acres in a tranquil country setting, the Fountains at Canterbury is a vibrant, tight-knit community where living is worry-free.
While it would be easy for a retired person to relax and let the world go by in such a catered-to environment, residents here are far from reposed. Partly, it’s because of their ageless attitudes. But mostly, it’s because there are simply so many interesting things to do, from classes in ballroom dancing to lectures on neurological health. Residents find plenty of opportunities to engage and enlist others in their personal passions. Some nurture roses in the Meditation Garden. Others meet regularly to stroll the three-quarter-mile trail or fish in a picturesque lake. Those with a passion for swimming and water aerobics make good use of the heated indoor aquatic facility all year round.
The Fountains at Canterbury holds nothing back when it comes to hiring the best qualified staff to inspire greatness. Chefs trained at Johnson and Wales and Paris’ Cordon Bleu keep taste buds happy at every meal. A Cooper Institute-educated personal trainer works with residents individually three times weekly, underscoring the community’s dedication to helping residents age well, which includes, balancing one’s life socially, emotionally, intellectually, as well as spiritually, vocationally, and physically.
People aged 62 and better considering a move to The Fountains will find a wide choice of accommodations from which to choose, from spacious cottages with two car garages to private, full-service apartments with underground parking, housekeeping, laundry, meals and transportation all furnished. Also, conveniently located on site are assisted living, memory support care, skilled nursing and rehabilitation programs staffed to a skill level above and beyond that which is required by Oklahoma law.
With dedication to the well being of mind, body, and spirit throughout this vibrant setting, The Fountains at Canterbury offers residents a welcome alternative path in a life well lived. Call 405-751-3600 or check our website.
Welcome to our 16th year of the Oklahoma Senior Journal and to another fantastic year of savings, information and entertainment! We are so proud to be representing the largest and fastest growing demographic in our nation’s history, “The Beloved Senior!” The OSJ does this year after year because we know that bringing you and your loved ones the enlightenment of the services available to you, is the reason for all our hard work and research efforts.
We are honored in this issue to bring you a true “Senior Advocate,” Mr. P. Scott Spratt, Attorney at Law. Mr. Spratt is featured on our front cover and in the article, on page 24. Mr. Spratt has devoted a vast amount of his time to fighting the “Good” fight for our cherished “Seniors.”
Being an advocate for anyone, especially seniors, requires more than just knowing what actions can be taken in a given situation. There are many times when handling the little details can make all the difference in the world. Moreover, being unsure about your situation can cause more stress than the final outcome. One individual, in the Oklahoma City area, that has come to understand the needs of seniors in particular is Phillip (Scott) Spratt, Attorney at Law.
Before Mr. Spratt started his own practice in downtown Oklahoma City, he worked in the Oklahoma County District Attorney’s office in the “elder abuse” department. While working for the District Attorney, Mr. Spratt became very aware of how some of the most vulnerable members of our society were being victimized by all kinds of individuals. Mr. Spratt worked on many elder abuse cases where the seniors were having their life savings taken by family members, health care providers, and a host of other individuals. Many times the District Attorney was helpless to stop the depletion of assets until it was too late, the criminal would go to jail, but the money was already gone.
As an attorney, Mr. Spratt thought that he could use his law degree to help protect these victims by using various available legal avenues and returning the control of assets back into proper hands. Also, Mr. Spratt learned the proper avenues that would not only stop these criminals, but make them have to answer to authorities for their crimes. Up until a few years ago, the justice system did not consider elder financial abuse to be that serious of a crime. However, as more and more individuals came forward with stories of losing their lifesavings, the laws were changed to not only make exploitation of the elderly a crime but to put the criminal away for many years. Mr. Spratt believes that exploitation of the elderly is one of the most heinous crimes we face in our society and believes he can make a difference. If you feel you need a legal advocate for any reason, elder abuse or otherwise, do not hesitate to call. Mr. Spratt will be more than happy to speak with you about all issues and consultations are always free.
Mr. Spratt practices in the following areas of the law:
• Elder abuse advocate
• Wills and Trusts
• Personal Injury
• Probate
• Guardianship
• Wrongful death
• Family law
Call 701-3033
Millions of Americans suffer from chronic, permanent nerve pain in their back, neck, arms and legs. While the most common cause remains problems with the spine (either with or without spinal surgery), there are many other causes such as diabetes, chemotherapy, peripheral vascular disease and shingles.
Regardless of the cause, spinal cord stimulation represents the most exciting, rapidly evolving treatment in the treatment of nerve pain. Over the last decade, many thousands of patients across the world have obtained relief of nerve pain.
Southwest Neuromodulation Institute provides not only traditional answers such as physical therapy, surgery, and spinal injections, but also specializes in treating patients with spinal cord stimulation. This Medicare approved, last-resort modality involves implanting a small device next to the spinal cord that emits special electrical impulses. The impulses block pain signals so they cannot reach the brain. The legs, back, neck or arms are left with a pleasant tingling sensation in the area where they previously experienced pain: if you have ever been treated with a “TENS” unit then you would recognize the sensation as similar but more thorough.
Unlike most medical treatments, spinal cord stimulation involves performing a trial where electrodes are placed through an injection and used for several days to allow you to decide whether this treatment would decrease your pain and improve your activity level. If both of these goals were met then a permanent device could be implanted at a later time.
Southwest Neuromodulation Institute is located in The Founders Tower at 5900 Mosteller Dr., Suite 3 in Oklahoma City;
3701 East Main in Weatherford, and at the Shawnee location, 3700 N. Kickapoo.
If you suffer from chronic nerve pain, please call for an initial consultation with a physician at (405) 840-5100.
Have you or someone you know assumed the responsibility for caring for an elderly family member or friend? If so, you understand the immeasurable emotional, physical, social and financial impact it has. Caring for an elderly and/or ill family member is a delicate balance of caring for their needs while maintaining control of your own life. The journey of a care giver is filled with blessings and stressors.
One’s life is dramatically altered by the reality of care giving. Often it is the Baby Boomer/Sandwich Generation* making sacrifices in their careers, health and immediate family. One of our longtime members, Katherine Holland, daughter of Maggie Manring, did exactly this. Eight years ago, Katherine chose to move Maggie into her home and become her full-time, primary caregiver. Quickly, Katherine realized she needed support and called OU Case Management, who has been providing support ever since. Katherine describes her experience: “You don’t get training to care for someone with Alzheimer’s. OU Case Management has been a tremendous help in providing me with the resources and support I need to take care of my mother. They (OU Case Management) became my security blanket.There are not enough words to describe what my case manager, Sue (Sue Duckworth, lead case manager) has done for my family. No matter what was going on in my home, she (Sue) always made me feel important, special and supported. My life and family really mattered to her.”
In situations like Katherine's and Maggie’s, it is necessary to have outside support. The primary care giver cannot realistically do everything required. Although it is common for primary care givers to want to do everything on their own, research shows that this will inevitably lead to burnout. Geriatric care management (also known as case management) is a collaborative approach to managing healthcare services from your living room. OU Case Management comes to you and works with your family, physicians and other health care providers to arrange all necessary services to promote health, maximize well-being and support efforts so your loved one can remain safely at home for as long as possible.
*Individuals born between 1946 and 1964; oftentimes caring for their immediate family and aging parents.
Do you need help? Have you lived in your house for many years and the thought of moving is just completely overwhelming? Do you not know where to start? Ace Transfer & Storage is your one-stop Senior Relocation Specialist. What does that mean to you? Well ACE has gathered up just the right people to help you move your furnishings across town, to another state or even to another country, to help you clear out that attic or basement, people who are professional and can help you save time, save money and increase peace of mind. People who can lead you through the process who do this everyday. This allows us to assist you in the distribution of any items you may wish to give to loved ones, friends or donate.
You are not alone. Moving doesn’t have to be stressful. Sometimes your family isn’t local and around to help, well ACE is the solution. Ace Transfer & Storage is the proud recipient of the 2008 National Defense Transportation Quality Award. This award honors a few companies world-wide for their commitment to excellence. We take our service to the United States Armed Forces very seriously! Since the founding of our company in 1927, ACE has grown up alongside the Greatest Generation. You will see we are as committed to making your transition as successful and seamless as we are to the service men and women we serve every day.
· Free Consultation / Fully Coordinated Services
· Multiple delivery options for keepsakes, family heirlooms and even special donations
· Inventory of items for easy identification
· Secure, economical storage to fit any budget
· Easy assistance for all your home related service needs
· Maid service, debris removal, surplus disposition and even handyman help
· Arrangement of items for donations
ACE Transfer & Storage
(405) 672-4425
Does rounding the corner at 50 mean our health has to decline? Absolutely not!!
Can we do all the things we used to do? Maybe not, but because our health is very relative, what can we do about it?
We tend to accept our own problems as excuses for disregarding our health: I can’t do .... I am overweight, I have arthritis, high blood pressure, diabetes, osteoporosis, or I have no time.... we need to “stay as active as possible to the extent of what our limitations will allow”.
For those of us with arthritis, exercise keeps us mobile; the less we move the more pronounced the stiffness and pain. I can go up and down stairs with less discomfort, after riding my bike, than when I don’t ride my bike. Water exercise is also an excellent activity. It relieves the weight on our joints and will provide relief to them. A warm water pool is the #1 treatment for fibromyalgia, to relieve stiffness, fatigue, sleeplessness, and pain.
After 50, our metabolism slows way down if we are not active – our body burns fewer calories, muscle mass declines, and our fat mass increases. Diet becomes more important as body composition and chemistry changes. 7,000 studies concluded that excess body fat increases the risk for cancer of the colon, kidney, pancreas, uterus, and post-menopausal breast cancer (www.dietandcancerreport.org). Excess weight increases the risk of heart disease by 55%. We should consume less red meat, eat 5 or more servings of fruits and vegetables daily and add fish with omega 3 – fatty acids, twice a week. Adding a quality vitamin and mineral supplement to our diet is a MUST, being selective on quality, and not price. All choices are not equal!
Quality of life is a function of activity. Maintaining an active lifestyle for as long as possible is what each of us desires – being inactive is a downward spiral.
What to do? – do something – don’t let restrictions keep you from doing what you want to do. If you can MOVE, you can exercise! Some level of weight and heart exercise will prolong your ability to be and stay active. Exercising with another person provides accountability for both. One can exercise at home, but home exercising allows many excuses to put-it-off. One will exercise better and more consistently by using a fitness facility on a regular basis, creating consistency.
It is never too late to start – whether your are 50 – 60 – 70 – 80 – or even 100!
To your good health – K. Dean Wertz, General Manager, Lighthouse Sports Fitness and Health Center - Your Health
Matters!
Sandy was moving her mom from the hospital to a nursing home. As she looked at her mother’s overstuffed house, she wondered what she should take.
What should someone bring when moving into a nursing home? The answer hinges upon the space available within the home and its rooms.
“First, decide what you can and cannot part with emotionally,” said Mollie Wooldridge, administrator for Grace Living Center – Del City. “Then determine what will fit. Next, with your loved ones, go through your personal belongings and decide if it is something you would rather a child or grandchild ‘keep’ or if you really want to bring it with you.”
FURNISHINGS
Grace Living Center usually allows families to bring what their elderly loved one wants, as long as the items fit in the space without interfering with the staff providing care.
Most homes provide a bed, nightstand, an over-the-bed table (for meals), a dresser and a chair. In addition, some offer built-in storage or free-standing storage space. Wooldridge said there should be ample space for a small television, stereo, VCR and other electronic equipment, as well as live plants, knick-knacks and family photos.
The goal is to help residents feel at home so family photos are important. Consider bringing a clock and a lamp if there is sufficient space.
WARDROBE
When choosing which clothes to bring to a nursing home, there is a temptation to bring too much. Six or seven sets of clothes are generally enough.
“Just bring clothes you would normally wear at home,” Wooldridge said. “Most homes suggest that you wear street clothing when leaving your room for meals, social events and therapies.”
In addition, it is important to have a good pair of sturdy, rubber-soled shoes, as well as socks for each day and a pair of non-skid slippers. A sweater or light jacket is good for year-round use and a heavy coat for the winter. Don’t forget to add underwear.
“Pack an ample supply of undergarments,” Wooldridge stressed. “If you use disposable undergarments, you should probably check with your particular facility to find out if they are provided and/or the cost of these items.”
LINENS AND LAUNDRY
Because most homes furnish linens – such as towels, washcloths and bedding – there is no need for families to provide these items.
Free laundry service is usually provided for both clothing (except for items that must be dry cleaned) and linens. Wooldridge suggests that families check with the home about its policy on laundering personal linens.
INVENTORY OF ITEMS
Finally, make a list of belongings when you or a loved one moves into a nursing home and update it frequently as you make changes in the room. If you are unsure about what to bring to a nursing home, ask the home’s administrator or admissions director.
“At Grace, our goal is to help you make the transition to your new home as easy as possible so we are always happy to help families make these decisions,” said Wooldridge.
“Providing Care Close to Home” When You Need Us – 1-877-OKGrace (654-7223)
What is it?
The TransBleph Brow Lift is a new approach to eyelid rejuvenation. It allows your physician to lift the eye brow and if needed remove excess upper eyelid tissue through a single incision. The incision is small and hidden in the fold of your eyelid skin.
As the upper face ages excess eyelid tissue and sagging eyebrows can give a tired or worn down effect. The TransBleph Brow Lift procedure addresses both areas at once. A more rested and youthful appearance is achieved.
How is it performed?
Dr. Tu will begin with an incision in the crease of the upper eyelid and can then remove excess skin and tissue. Then through the same incision the eyebrow will be released, lifted and secured using an absorbable implant called the ENDOTINE TransBleph fixation device. This device stays in place during healing and then is absorbed naturally by the body. Dr. Tu then will close the incision using a very fine suture. After surgery you can expect some temporary swelling and bruising around your eye. Cold compresses and pain medication may also be prescribed if needed.
What are the risks?
Every year many men and women undergo this type of procedure with no complications. Problems are rare and usually minor. Risks can be minimized by following instructions given by your physician both before and after surgery. Please discuss any questions or concerns with your doctor.
Benefits of ENDOTINE
TransBleph Brow Lift
• A single incision for both the upper eyelid rejuvenation and the brow lift
• Simple and quick for the doctor to perform
• Greater control over the brow elevation
• No need for anything internal to be removed–it absorbs over time
Dr. Quang Tu is available for complimentary consultations. Call for an appointment today!
Quang M. Tu, M.D. • 2801 Parklawn Drive., Ste. 207 • Midwest City, OK 73110 • 405-737-5370
Board certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery; Member, American Society of Plastic Surgeons
In real estate, there’s a saying – “Location, Location, Location.” Realtors know it is critical to consider where a home is located before buying. It is also an important consideration when choosing a skilled nursing facility for your loved one’s continued care after a hospital stay.
“Finding a skilled nursing facility that is near to your home or workplace can make it easier for you to visit your loved one often and check on his or her well being and progress,” said Angela York, administrator at Grace Living Center – NW 10th in Oklahoma City.
While location is important, so are the services provided. Don’t let location alone be the deciding factor. York suggested paying a visit to each facility you are considering. “You can learn a lot when you take a tour,” she explained. “Most homes are more than happy to set up a time for a tour to allow you to see the facility first hand.”
When visiting a prospective home, York said take note of the home’s overall appearance, adding that doesn’t mean you are always looking for the prettiest facility, but rather one that is clean and welcoming.
“Entrusting the care of a loved one to others is difficult and often fraught with worry and apprehension,” York said. “It’s imperative that both you and your loved one feel comfortable with the location and atmosphere, as well as the staff in a nursing home.”
Experts in the care of the elderly suggest these key questions to consider with regard to a home’s overall atmosphere:
CLEANLINESS
• Does the facility look and smell clean?
• Are the residents clean, appropriately dressed and well groomed?
• Are the hallways free of clutter?
COMFORT LEVEL
• Do the administrator and staff seem comfortable with each other and with the residents?
• Do you feel welcome?
• Does the facility maintain comfortable temperatures?
• Do the public areas and resident rooms have comfortable furniture?
SAFETY
• Are there handrails in the hallways and grab bars in the bathrooms?
• Are exits clearly marked?
• Are spills cleaned up quickly?
• Does the nursing home have smoke detectors and sprinklers?
• What policies or procedures are in place to safeguard residents’ possessions?
• Does the home run background checks on all employees?
LIFE ENRICHMENT
• Does the home provide a variety of activities in an effort to keep residents engaged?
• Does the home encourage visitors from the community?
• Does the home allow interactions with pets on a regular basis?
• Does the home have outside volunteer groups?
“Continuing the Celebration of Life” When You Need Us – 1-877-OKGrace (654-7223)
Trust is Very Important
The difference between family owned and corporate owned is TRUST! Trust is a very important part of funeral home selection. Funeral homes must understand the trust you are placing in them and do everything to hold that trust in the highest regard. We recommend that you select a funeral home that is locally owned. You will find a deeper and more personal commitment to the families in a locally owned funeral home. A family owned business’ only goal is to serve each family with utmost care. Decisions are made concerning their families by the owners and not in an impersonal corporate headquarters. A family owned business will have the owners present ensuring that families are taken care of.
Many times larger corporate funeral homes have decided it’s more cost effective for them to do their embalming in a central location or use a completely separate company to embalm the remains of your loved one. That is negligent of your trust. You called upon a funeral home to take care of your loved one and you should expect that they are doing so. It is important that the funeral home cares enough to take care of your loved one 24 hours a day 365 days a year.
When selecting a funeral home you should at all times feel comfortable and also have a deep feeling that the funeral home cares about your family. We believe you will find this in a family owned funeral home. You will find this at Matthews Funeral Home.
Matthews Funeral Home • 601 S Kelly Avenue • Edmond, OK 73003 • (405) 341-2787
Easing the Burden for Loved Ones
How preplanning a funeral ensures security and peace of mind for everyone
It’s a difficult subject to bring up. No one likes to think about the time when they’ll no longer be here. But truth be told, everyone will need a funeral some day. Without planning ahead, they can be stressful, expensive and filled with disagreements. Or you can create a celebration of life where loved ones come together to reflect on a life well lived, without the pressure of quick decisions and worries about expense.
How can you accomplish this? Through preplanning, which provides you not only the opportunity to create the type of memorial and burial that fits your beliefs and preferences, but to also put your family first by taking away the anxiety caused by guessing what you might have wanted. Planning a life celebration is a priceless gift of security, compassion and care for those we love.
Under a cloud of sorrow and time constraints, family members are often overwhelmed and uncertain of the decisions that need to be made: Did Dad want a traditional funeral or did he want to be cremated and have his ashes scattered at the lake? What music would Mom want played? Who will preside at the service? Making the dozens of decisions that arise when someone passes away can be nerve-racking.
Another point to consider is that family members often have differing ideas and opinions that can escalate during such an emotional and exhausting time. And in today’s world of blended families, preplanning can save children, step-children and extended family from disagreements about which cemetery, who will read a eulogy and who pays for what.
While no one likes to contemplate their own death, it is an important topic, says Guideon Richeson, funeral director and general manager of Lake View Memorial Gardens and Funeral Home in Fairview Heights, Illinois. Having those final arrangements taken care of is a gift to your family and yourself. It’s the best way to ensure that things are taken care of in the manner you wish.
In an effort to make the right choice, loved ones often spend far more for products and services than they normally would. When the wishes of a loved one are known, family and friends may be prevented from emotional over-spending in their rush to pick something nice. Planning ahead enables comparison shopping without time constraints, facilitates the family discussion of important final arrangement decisions and removes some of the burden from loved ones.
For more information, or to find a Dignity Memorial network provider near you, visit www.dignitymemorial.com or call 800-DIGNITY (800-344-6489)
Be informed about the choices available
Arranging a funeral or cremation service can seem complicated, but there’s always someone who can help you. Funeral directors are trained professionals who can be a vital and supportive resource for you. They can explain all the options available and help you make informed decisions and guide you though the process.
Plan ahead
At a time of loss, there are many practical decisions that need to be made. Unfortunately, this is often the time when we’re least able to approach the subject rationally. It makes sense to find a funeral director you can trust, before it becomes necessary.
Decide the final disposition
Selecting burial, mausoleum entombment or cremation is a very personal decision. Discussion of your choice with family and documentation is essential. Whatever you choose, government forms, fees and the organization of a memorial service will fall to your loved ones without preplanning. For ease and peace of mind, choose a funeral home, such as a Dignity Memorial network provider, that will walk you through all the necessary arrangements.
Find out what government benefits are available.
To find out your exact Social Security benefits, call 800-772-1213 or www.ssa.gov. Veterans may be eligible for a burial allowance from the Department of Veterans Affairs. You can contact them at (800) 827-1000 or online at www.cem.va.gov.
Don’t be afraid to ask about prices
The cost of arranging a funeral can vary greatly between companies. Be careful to choose a funeral home that presents its prices – the cost of the casket or urn, transportation fees, preparation charges, as well as other professional services – clearly and simply.
Funeral or cremation service arrangements need to be documented
Many people think everything is taken care of by having a will and a living trust, but those documents only cover medical treatment and financial affairs. You should make sure that your wishes are shared in writing with several people you trust: family members, friends and your funeral director.
Consider prepaying
If you decide to prepay for funeral or cremation service arrangements, be sure to let your family know. Also, keep your prearrangement documents in a safe place. Check with your bank before placing copies in a safe deposit box to ensure the box will not be sealed at the time of death.
Compassion as defined by the American Heritage Dictionary is “the deep awareness of the suffering of another coupled with the wish to relieve it.” This is what owners Mickey Key, R.N. and Mike Harvey have achieved through their life work at Compassionate Care Hospice.
For Mickey, the desire is rooted in her own life experiences battling and beating both breast and colon cancers. This personal experience has helped Mickey develop a service that supports and encourages individuals facing life-threatening diseases in the comfort of their own home.
With compassion and love for these individuals, Mickey and Mike have built Compassionate Care Hospice from the ground up based on principles of love and faith. And now their company is one of the most well known and respected hospice groups in the area. This reputation is also cultured by the staff of excellent and dedicated nurses who provide care to the patients in their residence, whether that is their home, a nursing facility or assisted living facility.
The nurses are the backbone of this company and their loving attitude is reflected in the manner in which they treat their patients. The staff of Compassionate Care Hospice is available 24 hours a day 7 days a week. They are only a phone call away.
Not only is Compassionate Care Hospice passionate about the highest quality patient care, they are also deeply committed to being involved in the community. Their support can be seen in a multitude of ways including patronage of several children’s sporting teams and teaching end-of-life and coping classes at local churches. Compassionate Care Hospice also provides services through a team of dedicated volunteers who have recognized Mickey and Mike’s mission as one both valued and desired by the community and have found their niche in helping to provide these services.
I
t is clear through the attitudes and actions of all those involved with Compassionate Care Hospice that their primary concern is not themselves but rather the patients and our community in which they are so involved.
Choosing a nursing home for a family member is one of the most difficult decisions in life. While every potential resident's situation is unique, the criteria listed below can give you the guidance needed to make the best possible placement and may alleviate future problems.
Location
It is important to choose a nursing home that is close and convenient to the person(s) who will be visiting the resident most often. Most studies of nursing home residents have shown that residents who are visited often recover more quickly, may be happier and healthier.
Special Needs
Special care needs of the resident should always be considered: Will the resident require a special diet, medical equipment or rehabilitation?
Services Provided
Whether the facility provides social activities, laundry, special religious or other personal services may be particularly important if the stay in the nursing home is likely to be permanent.
Quality
While quality of care should always be a primary consideration, we recommend that families do comparative shopping, taking into account the following factors:
Enforcement History
Information on a nursing home's compliance record under state and federal laws are important indicators of what the quality of care is likely to be. This information should be available in every facility, with details of the types of citations issued.
Objective Considerations
Nothing substitutes for a personal visit to the facility. Ask to see the entire facility and try to get a feel for how the residents are treated. Resident appearance, rooms, quality of food and activities are all important factors.
Subjective Feelings
How do you feel when you visit the facility? How did the administrator and staff treat you? Remember that you'll be depending on these people to take care of your family member.
Method of Payment
Unless a resident can pay privately, even if the initial stay is covered by Medicare, we recommend discussing upfront any and all costs associated with your family member's stay.
This article was sponsored by:
Grace Living Centers
1-877-OK-GRACE
(877-654-7223)
www.gracelivingcenters.com
Dollars and Cents: Medicare Premiums and Deductibles for 2007
The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) updates the premiums, deductibles, and co-payments made by Medicare beneficiaries each year. These adjustments are made according to formulas set by federal statute. The law requires that the standard monthly premium for Medicare Part B must be sufficient to cover 25 percent of the program's costs for aged beneficiaries, including the costs of maintaining a reserve against unexpected spending increases.
Medicare Part A (Hospital Insurance) pays for inpatient hospital, skilled nursing facility, hospice, and certain home health care. The beneficiary when admitted as a hospital inpatient pays the $992 deductible. The Part A deductible is the beneficiary's only cost for up to 60 days of Medicare-covered inpatient hospital care in a benefit period. Beneficiaries must pay an additional $248 per day for days 61 through 90 in 2007, and $496 per day for hospital stays beyond the 90th day for lifetime reserve days. The daily coinsurance for the 21st through 100th day in a skilled nursing facility will be $124 in 2007.
Part B standard premium: $93.50
An estimated 4 percent of current Part B enrollees are expected to be subject to the higher premium amounts. The proportion of beneficiaries paying income-related premiums of $105.80, $124.40, $142.90, or $161.40 are estimated to be 1.3 percent, 1.2 percent, 0.5 percent, and 0.8 percent, respectively. In 2007, approximately 4 percent of Medicare Part B enrollees with higher incomes will pay a higher Part B premium based on their income.
Part B deductible: $131
The Part B deductible was increased to $110 in 2005 and was subsequently indexed to the increase in the average cost of Part B services for aged beneficiaries, as part of the Medicare Modernization Act. The reason for the increase in the average cost of Part B services was described above. In 2007, the Part B deductible will be $131, compared to $124 in 2006, a 5.6 percent increase.
Information on these and other programs that can help beneficiaries lower their out-of-pocket costs is available at 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227), and for hearing and speech impaired at TTY/TTD: 1-877-486-2048.
This article was sponsored by:
Grace Living Centers
1-877-OK-GRACE
(877-654-7223)
www.gracelivingcenters.com
The Advanced Laser Center and Ocular Physician Associates are helping thousands of people look and feel younger. Dr. Belardo, the medical director of the center, has committed and prepared himself to meet visual challenges for people over 50 years of age. He has performed over 17,000 cataract surgeries as well as over 13,000 laser vision corrections. Dr. Belardo was also the first surgeon in Oklahoma to perform topical anesthesia cataract surgery (no stitch, no shot, no patch). Common visual challenges for people over 50 include cataracts, glaucoma, and sagging eyelids. The Advanced Laser Center will educate you on solutions, detailing how the puzzle of sight after 50 is being solved.
What is a cataract?
Cataracts are usually a slow progressing opacity on the natural lens. The natural lens is clear and transparent, but as cataracts progress, the lens hardens and becomes amber in color. Changes in the lens are usually associated with age and exposure to the sun. Cataracts can be accelerated by poor circulation, diabetes, steroid use, and trauma. Each of these conditions cause a different form or combination of opacities. Patients complain of loss of distance vision, loss of color perception, poor near vision, inadequte night vision, and difficulty with glare and halos around lights at night.
Old surgical techniques were associated with many complications, so many surgeons were advising patients to wait until the cataract was “ripe” before removing it. Today, modern cataract surgery is a quick and safe procedure with rare rates of complications. The safety of current techniques is why we recommend cataract surgery earlier rather than later.
Cataract-Leading Edge Technology
Dr. Belardo first started performing cataract surgeries in the early 90’s. Today’s technology for cataract surgery give the patient more comfort and patients do not need to wear a patch after surgery. State of the art measuring and calculations are done with the IOL Master which is the “Mercedes Benz” implant technology measurement device. This technology helps improve vision without glasses.
?New View? is the term we use for revolutionary implant technologies that restore near and distance vision. There are three new implants offer exciting results. ?These implants can give patients near and distance vision and the freedom from glasses and contact lenses,? explains Dr. Belardo. Today’s technology has been tested and improved since the early 90’s when the first multifocal lens was developed.
Dr. Belardo has implanted these lenses during his fellowship and in his private practice. Dr. Belardo states ?The new implants today allow us to offer near and distance vision to just about every patient who doesn’t have any eye disease.?
Based on your needs, your age, and your eye exam, the best of the three technologies or a combination will be recommended. “No two people are alike, nor do they have the same needs or goals. It’s great to be able to offer more than one technology.” If you feel like you are having symptoms of a cataract, all you need to do is make an appointment with your eye doctor to be evaluated. The testing is very easy and takes about an hour. Your doctor can explain in detail the procedure and how your vision can be improved. In our office, patients can have surgery within a week or two of their initial examination.
Glaucoma
Glaucoma is called the “sneaky thief” of sight. It has no symptoms and no pain until it is too late. This is why anyone over 40 needs an eye exam. People at risk are those with hypertension, diabetes, near sighted, and those with family history of glaucoma. Glaucoma evaluations include taking the intra-ocular pressures, measuring the thickness of the cornea, visual field tests to measure any loss of vision, and optic nerve analysis with state of the art ultrasound and laser scanners.
Early treatment of glaucoma is critical to avoid visual loss. Today the new SLT laser treatments can help lower ocular pressures and in many cases can eliminate the need for eye drops. Another treatment option is using eye drops to reduce the pressure inside the eye. These drops are prescription and are usually a very safe alternative. The new eye drops today are also very effective in lowering the pressures and as such, fewer patients need glaucoma surgery.
Blepharoplasty
When the upper lids droop as they do in most mature individuals, a part of the vision is affected. If the drooping lids affect the vision, lid surgery will usually be covered by your insurance carrier if you want surgery to remove the excess skin and repair a sagging muscle. As we all age. not only could the upper lids sag but in some the lower lids sag as well. This can cause tearing or even dryness of the eyes. Upper and lower lid sagging can now be treated with lid surgery procedures. If you feel that your lids are obstructing your vision, Dr. Belardo has performed thousands of lid surgeries over the past eighteen years in ophthalmic surgery.
Vision problems can seem complicated, but Dr. John P. Belardo and Advanced Laser Center’s passionate team of physicians can help solve the ocular puzzle.
If you do not have a regular eye doctor, Dr. Belardo is accepting new patients and his office can be reached at 405-755-7700.
The goal of Project Woman Coalition PWC is to provide Oklahomans with improved breast health through increased awareness, screening and diagnostic services. There is an enormous need for these services especially among lowincome uninsured women who have no other way to access lifesaving screening services.
The average PWC client is a woman with few resources, perhaps a mother, often between the ages of 4049 with no means to pay for annual mammograms. These women’s life circumstances do not afford them the luxury of putting their health first, a fact that PWC is working to change. Project Woman Coalition is working to give all the men and women of Oklahoma an equal chance at health and hope for the future.
Breast cancer is one of the most treatable forms of cancer. The key element in the fight is early detection. Oklahoma women are still more likely to die of breast cancer than the national average. They are also less likely to receive annual mammograms. This constitutes a deadly combination.
The PWC NoCost Mammography Program is funded through donations made by individuals, corporations and grants provided by foundations. An independently operating 501c(3) since 2000, Project Woman Coalition is a collaborative effort involving representatives from area hospitals, mammography facilities, government agencies, communitybased organizations, physicians, nurses and breast cancer survivors, all focused on the pursuit of the very best in breast healthcare for the women of Oklahoma.
Project Woman Coalition hosts many educational, awareness, and fundraising events through our surrounding community. Some events include the Ribbons & Roses Luncheon, Ribbons & Roses Run, Panera Bread Pink Ribbon Golf Classic, and the LowCost Coupon campaign during Breast Cancer Awareness Month in October.
In 2005, Project Woman Coalition launched its Tough ChoicesSmart Decisions care management program, which is funded by the grants from the Avon Foundation Breast Health Fund and the Oklahoma City Community Foundation. The program is designed to reduce the barriers to women accessing appropriate care. Utilizing a Nurse Navigator, clients will be directed to services and providers depending upon their demonstrated need. In addition, client surveys will be completed in order to collect the most accurate data possible on our client demographics and needs. With the care management program, Project Woman has a commitment to provide at least 1000 breast health screenings this year.
If you would like more information about upcoming events, volunteer opportunities or corporate sponsorship, call 405-604-4642 or visit www.projectwoman.org today! 717 NW 17th Street, Oklahoma City, OK 73103, P.O. Box 73101;
Do you:
– leak urine when you laugh, sneeze, cough or participate in physical activities?
– often feel a strong and sudden urge to urinate that may or may not result in urinary leakage?
– feel you have poor muscle tone and/or lack of support vaginally which hinders your sexual satisfaction?
If you have answered yes to any of the above questions, you are not alone. It is estimated that over 16 million women have some type of bladder dysfunction. Unfortunately, many women believe the symptoms that accompany bladder dysfunctions are not treatable and preventable.
The Continence and Control Program has been specifically created to offer women help and treatment options for symptoms arising from bladder dysfunctions. We treat patients with problems such as urinary incontinence, fecal incontinence, pelvic pain, prolapses, frequency, nocturia and pelvic floor weakness. This innovative program combines patient education with the most current medical treatment options available to help you gain continence and control. If you would like more information about our Continence and Control Program, please contact our office at (405) 751-9955.
Specialized Physical Therapy offers comprehensive and compassionate care to their patients in the areas of:
• non-surgical alternatives to urinary incontinence/pelvic floor dysfunctions
• exercise programs to assist in the rebuilding of bone density caused by osteoporosis
• general orthopedics
• pain related to post-surgical conditions
• treatment for sports medicine injuries
• treatment for pain related to pregnancy and post partum
For information, please contact our office at (405) 751-9955.
In a world constantly changing, isn't it nice to know that some things never change?
In a time of bigger, better, faster, higher, isn't it great to count on things that are familiar, consistent and reliable? For the past 30 years, Johnnie's Charcoal Broiler has become one of life's little comforts ... quality food prepared in a timely manner, served in the relaxed environment to which you've grown accustomed. What more could anyone want?
Johnnie's Charcoal Broiler was started by Johnnie Haynes after 18 years managing the famous Split-T. His commitment to quality food and service, and a family-friendly environment, made the transition to Johnnie's Charcoal Broiler very easy for customers who just wanted a great burger and fries. You probably remember the first restaurant located at Military Avenue and Britton Road, and have enjoyed the food for many years at its current location on Britton between May and Pennsylvania Avenues.
As our families have grown and moved throughout the state, so has the Johnnie's family. Five Charcoal Broilers are located in the Oklahoma City and Tulsa areas. Their newest concept, Johnnie's Express, is a smaller version of Johnnie's Charcoal Broiler. Express locations in Oklahoma City, Tulsa, Norman and Stillwater, have all the same great menu items you've come to expect, but are even more convenient. At Johnnie's Express, you can order burgers, fries and onion rings to-go at the drive-thru, enjoy a relaxed meal at an inside table, or order from our drive-up stalls where a car-hop will deliver right to your car.
While Johnnie's continues to serve up great Theta, Caesar and other delectable burgers for lunch and dinner, they're now making mornings more enjoyable by offering breakfast items at all Express locations. After your morning walk with friends, hunker down with a steaming cup of coffee and dive into our sweet cinnamon rolls or juicy breakfast sandwiches. Johnnie's is a great place to gather, relax, and enjoy quality food.
Today is a perfect time to enjoy a great meal for a great deal at Johnnie's, whether it's breakfast, lunch or dinner. Visit any Johnnie's Express location, Monday thru Friday from 9:00-10:30 a.m., and enjoy any breakfast sandwich for half price. Just ask for the Senior Special.
Quality food, quality service and a great deal ... It's nice to know some things never change.
