Classic/Vintage Oklahoma City Photos: Memories from the '50's, '60's, '70's and '80's

by Judie Schwerdtfeger

Whether you're a baby boomer or senior citizen (I meant "slightly more mature" Oklahoman) you probably have some great memories of growing up in Oklahoma City and elsewhere across the area. I thought I'd put together a collection of Oklahoma City photographs showcasing landmarks and fun spots that people who grew up in the 1950's and 1960's may enjoy.

And folks in their 40's - who came of age in the '70's and '80's - here are a couple for you, too.

Feel free to share this page on your Facebook or other pages, and if you have any photos you'd like to share, post them to my Facebook page here or email them to me. I'd love to include them in another blog post like this I'll do in the future.

Springlake Amusement Park

Brown's Department Store

I Specialize In Real Estate & Downsizing Help for Adults 55+ Who Are On the Move

Thumbs Up to You if You Saw "Footloose" in 1983 at the Winchester Drive-In

We Love Our Chicken Fried Food in OKC

Ever Enjoyed a Big Bevburger?

Midwest Theater

Bonus Points if You Shopped at Penn Square Mall in the '60's or '70's

You're Very Cool if You Saw the Flaming Lips When They First Formed in OKC in 1983

Paseo Plunge in the 1950's

Baseball: The Oklahoma City 89'ers Diamond Girls in the '80's 

My Featured Oklahoma City Condos for Sale

How Oklahoma's New CARE Act Will Help Family Caregivers of Older Adults

by Judie Schwerdtfeger

I'm proud that the state of Oklahoma has stepped up and is leading the way in efforts to help family caregivers provide better care for their loved ones.

You may have heard about the recent enactment of the CARE Act, the Oklahoma Caregiver Advise, Record, Enable Act. The three main points of the law will:

Require a hospital or rehabilitation facility to record the name of the family caregiver when a loved one is admitted for treatment.

I Specialize in Real Estate Services and Home Sales for Seniors on the Move in Oklahoma

Require the family caregiver to be notified if a loved one is going to be discharged to another facility or released to their home.

Require hospitals and rehabilitation facilities to provide explanations and in-person instruction about medical tasks that the family caregiver will need to provide at home, such as transferring a person out of their wheelchair, giving them medications or caring for wounds.

This is a massive way to help family caregivers from Edmond to Yukon to Moore stay up-to-date with the care their loved one is receiving. After all, in many instances, the caregiver doesn't always attend every doctor's appointment or therapy session.

The Oklahoma CARE Act will help family caregivers ensure quality treatment for their parent, spouse, or grandparents and will perhaps allow some older adults to remain living in their own home (age-in-place) for a longer period of time.

As a Certified Senior Housing Professional (a real estate agent in Oklahoma City who specializes in working with older adults and their family caregivers) my job is about more than simply selling an Oklahoma house for an older adult. My task is to advise seniors and their families on all of their senior housing options. If that means they can stay in their own home longer, then awesome.

Read More About the Oklahoma CARE Act

The Oklahoma CARE Act goes a long way toward helping elders and relieving the large levels of stress on family caregivers.

If you're an older adult and need advice on the many complexities of selling an Oklahoma City house late-in-life or if you're a family caregiver who requires assistance in selling a family home for your loved one and arranging for their move to new housing, please feel free to contact me for advice on senior housing options and how best to proceed.

My Featured Oklahoma City House for Sale

Edmond, Oklahoma Business Review: Bradford Village Senior Retirement Community

by Judie Schwerdtfeger

When I help a senior real estate client or their caregiver family in Oklahoma City or Edmond sell a house and prepare for the older adult's move to new housing, it's my job as a Certified Senior Housing Professional to help them find the proper senior housing and prepare for all contingencies - financial, logistical, and otherwise.

I Specialize in Real Estate Services and "Downsizing" for Oklahoma Seniors On the Move

So, of course, I stay up-to-date on the many different senior retirement communities across the area.

Bradford Village in Edmond, Oklahoma is a Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRC) that offers multiple senior housing options including assisted living, independent living, and skilled nursing care. Visit my website here for more information on what these - and other - senior housing definitions mean.

Visit the Bradford Village Website

Owned by the national company Brookdale Senior Living Solutions (you may have seen their national commercials on TV or in print) Bradford Village's entry fee plans provide healthcare and Assisted Living benefits at locked in rates. From a further financial perspective, they offer several, different financial packages and purchase plans.

Senior housing at Bradford Village Retirement Community consists of independent living cottages in 11 different floor plans ranging from 802 square feet of living space to more than 1,500 square feet.

A 360 Degree Virtual Tour of Bradford Village

Meanwhile, residents who require skilled nursing care - either as short-term rehabilitation or on a long-term basis - receive that care in a specialized setting at Bradford Healthcare Center, which is located on the same campus and accomodates up to 113 patients. Here, their goal is always to help patients avoid the feeling that they are in an institutionalized "nursing home" in Edmond, Oklahoma.

Otherwise, across campus at the independent living cottages, residents receive freshly prepared breakfast and lunch Mon through Friday, but are on their own - independently - for dinner throughout the week and for all meals on weekends. Just like all independent adults. They also are provided Fitness and exercise programs, Housekeeping, Scheduled transportation services, Daily cultural, social and/or educational programs, outings or events, Lawn Service, Emergency pull cords, Total maintenance (preventative maintenance inside and out of the cottage), and Therapeutic care when requested.

See Their Floor Plans Here

Here's what those who require Personalized Assisted Living receive:

Three nutritious, freshly prepared meals daily
Snacks and drinks provided throughout the day
Nurse available 24 hours a day for residents’ convenience or in case of emergency
Health and wellness services
Cable TV
Diabetic care
Emergency pull cords and pendants
Fitness and exercise programs
Housekeeping and linen services
Incontinence care
Personalized care
Special diet accommodation
Therapeutic care
Scheduled transportation services
Daily cultural, social and/or educational programs, outings or events

If you are a senior or the family caregiver of an older adult in Oklahoma and need help or advice on selling your house and then preparing to downsize and move to a smaller home - be it a retirement community, nursing home, or "mother-in-law cottage," please feel free to contact me for a no-obligation chat.

Mustang, Oklahoma House for Sale: 

My Review: Moore, Oklahoma Retirement Community Chateau on the Green

by Judie Schwerdtfeger

In my role as a Certified Senior Housing Professional, part of my job is to be aware of the different options in retirement communities in the Oklahoma City area. After all, when a senior client or their family comes to me for help in selling the long-held family home, it's vital that I be able to guide them and offer overall assistance in finding the perfect place for the senior to downsize and call home.

I Specialize in Real Estate Services for Oklahoma City Adults 55+

As such, I'll use my blog here to fill you in and offer some basic information on some of the top senior housing communities across the Oklahoma City metro.

Chateau on the Green is a retirement community in Moore, Oklahoma that offers housing options for older adults as young as 50+.

Intended as a "first option" for older Oklahoma adults who require no assisted care aside from yard and home maintenance, it's essentially a community for independent adults who long to do away with the hassle of home maintenance and upkeep. Residents of Chateau on the Green enjoy independent, cottage homes that really do exemplify the epitome of "downsizing" - a trend that more and more folks are appreciating every day.

Visit the Chateau on the Green Website

The cottages come in three floor plans and are nestled across five acres of manicured grounds that include a walking track which circles the homes and pond. Residents also enjoy access to the clubhouse which may be reserved free of charge for larger family gatherings and includes a library, full kitchen, and TV.

The second community, Chateau Court, is located near Chateau on the Green and features duplexes of 1,250 square feet, each with two bedrooms, two baths, and a two car garage.

By the way, Chateau on the Green was recently voted "Best in Senior Living" in the 2014 Moore Monthly's "Best of Moore and South OKC" poll.

Congratulations!

As an Oklahoma City real estate agent who is also specially trained as a Certified Senior Housing Professional of the Seniors Real Estate Institute, I provide information and assistance on downsizing, retirement housing, and the many variable that come into play when a senior adult is faced with the need to sell a home.

I'll be happy to get together with you for a no-obligation chat. Contact me here at any time.

 

My Featured Oklahoma City House for Sale: 821 N Peniel St, Oklahoma City, OK 73127

Dignity for Oklahoma City Family Caregivers and the Seniors They Love

by Judie Schwerdtfeger

Here's what I've learned as a Certified Senior Housing Professional in Oklahoma City - or, in other words - a real estate agent who specializes in working with seniors or their caregiver families.

Yes, that's exactly it. Dignity. 

Dignity for the senior, his or her spouse, and the family members who are involved in the care of an older, senior adult.

People occasionally ask why- although I help people of all ages buy and sell houses in Oklahoma - I chose to dedicate time, energy, and expense to the specialized training necessary to achieve the designation of Certified Senior Housing Professional of the Seniors Real Estate Institute.

When I initially came across the graphic pictured above, I realized that quote summed it up quite nicely.

It's because I believe that, in my job as an Oklahoma City Realtor, I have an opportunity to truly be of special assistance to seniors and their families who typically find themselves in a very tough spot.

As their real estate agent, I become part of their caregiving team, and that's a responsibility I do not take lightly. 

Dignity can very easily be eroded when the time comes for a senior to sell their family home and move into a senior housing community. Emotions jump to the surface, and it can very easily seem as if something horrible is coming to pass.

The truth is that it does not have to be anywhere near that dramatic. I love the fact that as a Certified Senior Housing Professional, I am specifically trained to anticipate and solve all of the issues that may spring to the forefront when a family faces financial, legal, and emotional stresses.

I love the fact that I can help a senior in Edmond or Moore maintain their dignity during the process.

I love the fact that I can help family members - some of whom may be scattered across Oklahoma or the country - stay afloat and handle the pressure they are under.

What is a Certified Senior Housing Professional?

I love the fact that I can help everyone maintain a firm grasp on the process and yes, on their dignity.

Seniors deserve to be treated as so much more than just another house to sell - or another transaction - when they go through a late-in-life transition that involves the sale of an Oklahoma City house. 

Dignity

Now that deserves a big Amen!

My Featured Oklahoma City House for Sale: 6451 Masons Dr, Oklahoma City, OK 73142

Fabulous community offering a carefree living with neighbors that care. HOA is responsible for lawn, roof, watering, painting and exterior maintenance. Home has a lot of natural light and offers open large living/dining. Spacious kitchen with breakfast bar and pantry. Bedrooms have great closet space and each have their own bathroom. Deck is amazing for cookout and relaxing!

   

Oklahoma City Mother's Day 2014 Gift Ideas, Restaurant Brunches, Events, Activities & Flower Shows

by Judie Schwerdtfeger

Whether your mother is living on her own in Oklahoma City or the resident of a retirement community or assisted living facility anywhere from Moore to Edmond, Mother's Day in OKC is, of course, a special day for her and you.

I've compiled a list of Mother's Day gift ideas for senior citizens along with links to Mother's Day brunches, restaurants & other activities in Oklahoma City and all across our area. Enjoy and Happy Mother's Day 2014 to you.

I Specialize in Real Estate and Housing Services for Oklahoma City Adults 55+ and Seniors

Mother's Day 2014 Brunches in Oklahoma City

Of course, Mom will love spending time with you at the time-honored tradition of a Mother's Day brunch. From Downtown Oklahoma City to Mustang, Yukon, Bethany, and more, here are some places to take your Mom or elderly parents for Mother's Day in Oklahoma.

Oklahoma City Mother's Day Brunch Restaurants 2014 via OpenTable.com

Mother's Day Flowers and Florists in Oklahoma City

Oklahoma City Mother's Day Events, Activities, and Things to Do

Free Admission for Moms on Mother's Day at the Oklahoma City Zoo

Mother's Day Gift Ideas for Seniors in Oklahoma City

Memory Jar

Grab a jar, decorate it nicely, find some small pieces of paper or cards, and pause to think. On each card, write a quick sentence detailing a fond memory of time you spent with her. It could be something from childhood or anything at all. She'll love picking one out once in awhile and smiling at a cherished memory.

Photo Bouquet

Sure, mom will love some beautiful, fresh, real flowers. But make her a photo bouquet also. Even if you're not especially "crafty," this is pretty easy to do. Cut a few shapes out of construction paper and make copies of some of your favorite, family photographs, be they "vintage" or ones you snap today with your smartphone or digital camera. Glue one photograph to each piece of construction paper, and drop by a florist and ask to buy some of the plastic sticks they use to attach cards to their floral arrangements. They should be happy to sell you a few, especially if you also purchase an Oklahoma City Mother's Day floral arrangement from them!

Freezer Meals

If Mom is a bit older and living independently in Moore, Edmond, Yukon or anywhere in Oklahoma, she'll probably appreciate you saving her from cooking. Spend some time on Mom and prepare her several casseroles, bags of vegetable treats, or other meal ideas that can be easily stored in a freezer and reheated. 

Happy Mother's Day from Judie S. to All Oklahoma City Moms

My Featured Oklahoma City House for Sale: 6451 Masons Dr, Oklahoma City, OK 73142

Fabulous community offering carefree living with neighbors that care and everyone is like family.. HOA is responsible for lawn, roof, watering, painting and exterior maintenance. Home has a lot of natural light and offers open large living/dining. Spacious kitchen with breakfast bar and pantry. Bedrooms have great closet space and each has their own bathroom. Deck is perfect for cookouts and relaxing!

  

What is Long Term Care Insurance? Facts for Oklahoma City Boomers and Seniors

by Judie Schwerdtfeger

Oklahoma City boomers between the ages of 49-67 and older, senior adults, should soon decide whether or not to buy a long term care insurance policy.

Fewer than 2 out of 10 adults have such a policy, a number that means many older Oklahomans could spend a lot of years living far below their expectations.

I Specialize in Real Estate Sales and Services for Oklahoma City Adults 55+

A very real possibility is that those without long term care insurance could be forced to sell off all of their assets before qualifying for Medicare. According to the National Clearinghouse for Long-Term Care Information, about 70% of people over age 65 require some type of long-term care in their lifetime.

That means your house, savings, and all assets sold in order to pay for any assisted housing needs that come up. Sort of scary, huh?

The State of Oklahoma has developed an excellent: 

Oklahoma Long Term Care Insurance Shoppers' Guide

Additionally, the Oklahoma Health Care Authority and the Oklahoma Insurance Department are working with private insurers to create the Oklahoma Long-Term Care Partnership program, a program with benefit options that may protect the consumer’s financial future.

 Oklahoma Long-Term Care Partnership

Long-term care insurance policies reimburse policyholders a daily amount (up to a pre-selected limit) for services to assist them with activities of daily living such as bathing, dressing, or eating.  You can select a range of care options and benefits that allow you to get the services you need, where you need them.

The cost of your long-term care policy is based on:

How old you are when you buy the policy

The maximum amount that a policy will pay per day

The maximum number of days (years) that a policy will pay

The maximum amount per day times the number of days determines the lifetime maximum amount that the policy will pay.

Any optional benefits you choose, such as benefits that increase with inflation

As a Certified Senior Housing Professional, I do far more than only help folks buy or sell a house in Oklahoma City. Feel free to contact me anytime for information and advice on planning for a late-in-life move relevant to real estate, senior housing, and any other issues affecting those who are 55+. If I don't know the answer or can't specifically help you, I can point you to other professionals or groups in Oklahoma who can.

My Featured Oklahoma City House for Sale: 821 N Peniel St, Oklahoma City, OK 73127