February 27, 2023

Guidance and resources for care of loved ones

By Cherrie Nutley, SWODA Ombudsman Supervisor, 580-562-5032

Today, I will begin a multi-part series of articles with guidance and resources for those looking at the possibility of moving a loved one to a long-term care facility.  Placing a loved one in a nursing home is one of the most difficult decisions that a family makes for a loved one.  Sometimes this is the best option moving forward.  When this time comes prospective residents, and their families should have the best information possible to assist in making this decision.

First explore all options and alternatives, if possible, plan for possible long-term care needs in the future.  If an individual and those close to them can discuss preferences related to long-term care and plan a head of time, decisions and arrangements are much easier when the need for long-term care arrives.

Before you look for a nursing home, be sure your loved one’s condition and support system has been thoroughly evaluated.  When properly diagnosed and treated some conditions may improve significantly. Also, some people with serious medical conditions can remain at home with the proper support system.  Have open and honest conversations with your loved one to see what it is they need or would like to see happen. 

If your loved one has some difficulties with communicating their wishes or has some level of difficulty with understanding it is still important to include them in all aspects of their care.  Most people prefer to stay in their own home, so you may need to look into options for home care which include home care with aides or assisted living or family and/or friends willing to be a helper.  Your local Area Wide Agency on Aging will be able to provide some information and assistance if home care is the plan.  The number for SWODA AAA is 580-562-4882.

If it is not possible or if your loved one requires more care and support than can be safely given in their home, it is time to research nursing home long-term care or short-stay rehab options. Next month, we will discuss evaluating possible nursing home options.

Remember, if you or a loved one is in long-term care and has concerns, questions, or complaints, reach out to your area Long-Term Care Ombudsman Cherrie Nutley at 580-562-5032.

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January 23, 2023

Ongoing COVID crisis changes new normal routines

By Cherrie Nutley, Ombudsman Supervisor, 580-562-5032

It seems that our new normal in all aspects of daily living continue to change because of the ongoing COVID crisis. A noticeable impact we are all very aware of has been for the residents in long-term care.

Changes have been made and new policies implemented to make sure residents are able to have visitors and can see and touch their loved ones when they do visit. All nursing homes are required to allow their residents to have visitors as often and for as long as the wish. Nursing homes are also tasked with protecting their residents, so screening is required before a visit and wearing a mask is also a requirement.

An unexpected consequence of this long-running pandemic is that long-term care facilities are struggling with staffing issues as their staff and the families of their staff also must deal with COVID outbreaks. Facilities are working hard to maintain the level of staffing required to not just adequately care for their residents but to provide good care.

Activities are a very integral part of this quality care, but it has taken a back seat to actual patient care because of the shuffling of services. If you have a good voice and like to entertain, facilities would love to have some assistance with calling bingo, sing-a-longs or reading of poetry or books.

If you love crafting or puzzles, there is a place for you to volunteer as well.

If you have some time and talents to share, please reach out to your local long-term-care facility and see if they are interested in having you come help with their activities.

If you cannot personally make that commitment but you have puzzles, books, crafting or coloring supplies that you could donate, please check to see if there is a need for those things in your area.

If you have questions or concerns regarding a long-term care facility or a loved one in a long- term care facility, please give Cherrie Nutley, ombudsman supervisor, a call at 580-562-5032.

January 2, 2023

Masonic Fraternity of Oklahoma providing funds for services not provided by other agencies

By Joanie Swanson, SWODA AAA Information and Assistance Specialist

The Masonic Fraternity of Oklahoma is once again partnering with the South Western Oklahoma Development Authority (SWODA) Area Agency on Aging (AAA), along with other Area Agencies on Aging across the state, to assist with funding direct services for people 55 years of age and older in need of some type assistance not otherwise provided by other agencies.

Some of the types of services include dentures and/or dental work, minor home repairs, wheelchair ramps and heaters and/or heater repairs.

There is an application and funds will be used on a first come, first served basis until they are all utilized. Funding for each type of service will be limited. Those who have desperate or unique needs should file an application because those situations considered on a case-by-case basis. Assistance will be available once per person every three year.

The SWODA Aging Services Information Assistant receives calls daily from older people and/or their caregivers with needs, and many are told nothing is available to help. This Masonic funding enables AAA staff to assist many callers with resources not available previously.

This funding “will not only help Oklahoma’s older population but will also relieve some of the stress placed on caregivers whose older relatives are continually turned down because of the lack of resources for needed help,” said Anita Martinez, SWODA director of Aging Services.

Counties covered by the SWODA AAA are Beckham, Custer, Greer, Harmon, Jackson, Kiowa, Roger Mills and Washita. The SWODA AAA has in-depth working knowledge of current government programs that are available to older Oklahomans, as well as knowledge of the existence of service gaps or non-covered needs of Oklahoma’s older citizens.

To learn more about this and other available services, call the SWODA AAA Information and Assistance Specialist, Joanie Swanson at 1-800-627-4882, ext. 126 or call the statewide toll­ free Senior Info Line at 1-800-211-2116.

November 17, 2022

Remember loved ones in long-term care during holidays

By Cherrie Nutley, SWODA Ombudsman Supervisor, 580-562-5032

As we near the big holidays of this year please remember your loved ones in long-term care. Visitation is open and most facilities are no longer requiring the lengthy screening procedures, and many are now mask free.

Check with your loved one’s facility to see the schedule of holiday events.  Many have a Thanksgiving Meal and gathering time for family and friends and the same with Christmas. 

Be mindful of gifts to give loved ones in long-term care that they can use and enjoy. Some items always requested are lap robes, socks, house shoes, lotion, candy, cookies, books, word games, puzzles, stationery and stamps. Most facilities post a wish list at the office. Give the most important gift which is the gift of your time.  Residents in long-term care love to visit and to see people.

If you are interested in becoming an Ombudsman Volunteer, we will be hosting a training that will begin at 9 AM on November 28, 2022, at the Burns Flat SWODA offices. If you are interested or would like more information, please call your area Ombudsman Cherrie Nutley at 580-562-5032.  Call this same number if you have concerns or questions about the care your loved one is receiving.

Oct. 31, 2022

Financial resources available to give caregivers a break

For questions, contact Joanie Swanson, AAA Information & Assistance Specialist, 580-562-5026; joanie@swoda.org

Many caregivers struggle to provide care for their loved ones on their own. The South Western Oklahoma Development Authority (SWODA) Area Agency on Aging (AAA) believes it’s important caregivers know they are not alone in their struggle to help their loved ones.

SWODA AAA provides for respite services for eligible caregivers in partnership with the Department of Human Services, Aging Services Division.

Studies have shown caregivers will give better care, maintain their own health, and have reduced levels of stress if they can get away from the responsibilities of providing care even if it’s for only a few hours. Respite does just that. It provides a way for a caregiver to get out of the everyday routine of caring for their loved one. For example, a caregiver has the option of using respite services to go to a doctor’s appointment, to get their hair done, to visit friends at a coffee shop, or even go to a movie.

Caregivers are defined as "people of any age caring for someone 60 years of age or older with two Activities of Daily Living Impairments (dressing, bathing, eating, transferring, toileting, or walking) and/or requiring substantial assistance because of a cognitive or other mental impairment."

If you or someone you know is interested in the Caregiver Respite Voucher Program, please contact Joanie Swanson, caregiver coordinator with SWODA Area Agency on Aging, at 800-627-4882, ext. 126, or e-mail Joanie at joanie@swoda.org.

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September 5, 2022

Federal grant awards SWODA 1.5 million dollars to develop regional long-range transportation plan for 16 counties

By Julie Sanders, Director of Transportation, 580-562-5010, julie@swoda.org

The South Western Oklahoma Development Authority (SWODA) located in Burns Flat will receive 1.5 million dollars through one of six RAISE grants awarded in Oklahoma. RAISE stands for Rebuilding American Infrastructure with Sustainability and Equity (RAISE) program.

SWODA will be developing a regional long-range transportation plan for counties that encompass the Southwest Oklahoma Regional Transportation Planning organization (SORTPO) region. The region includes the following 16 counties: Beckham, Caddo, Comanche, Cotton, Custer, Grady, Greer, Harmon, Jackson, Jefferson, Kiowa, McClain, Roger Mills, Stephens, Tillman, and Washita.

This grant program is to help urban and rural communities move forward on projects that modernize roads, bridges, transit, rail, ports, and intermodal transportation and make our transportation systems safer, more accessible, more affordable, and more sustainable.

According to U.S. Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg more than $2.2 billion RAISE program has been awarded for 2022. You can see all the grant awardees at transportation.gov/RAISEgrants.

September 5, 2022

Long-term care residents enjoy outings with the family

By Cherrie Nutley, SWODA Ombudsman Supervisor, 580-562-5032

Summer is ending and fall is near. As we get busy time of year with school activities and looming holidays, it’s important to remember your loved ones who reside in a long-term care facility and include them as much as possible.

Many residents can leave the facility to attend family outings and events and would love this break in their routine. Work with the facility staff about what you would need to be aware of when taking your loved one with you to a football game or band concert. Facilities are quite comfortable with residents going on outings if they know when they are leaving and when they are returning.

Remember in this time of technology, if your loved one is not physically able to leave to attend events, they can still be connected. Many facilities have the capability of Zooming or Face Time and most residents have cell phones so they can participate virtually.

With just a little preplanning, residents can remain a very vital part of all the exciting fall activities. Most of us have a large collection of photos stored on our phones, take a moment to go through these and have some printed out to share. Residents really enjoy having pictures to look at and to share with others.

Most of all stay in touch with your loved one in any way you can. If you have questions or concerns regarding a resident of a long-term care facility, Area Ombudsman Cherrie Nutley is only a phone call away at 580-562-5032.

July 21, 2022

Ombudsman volunteers have rewarding experiences

By Cherrie Nutley, SWODA Ombudsman Supervisor, 580-562-5032

Do you enjoy getting out and visiting with people? Do you have two hours a week to spare? Being an Ombudsman volunteer is rewarding and interesting. An Ombudsman is committed to improving and enriching the lives of older people.

You will receive training, guidance, and an introduction to the facility with which you will volunteer. You will only visit one facility as a volunteer, and you can pick the facility that you would like to volunteer at within the SWODA area that includes the counties of Custer, Kiowa, Greer, Beckham, Jackson, Harmon, Roger Mills and Washita

A long-term care Ombudsman volunteer helps to improve the quality of life and the quality of care available to residents of nursing homes, residential care homes and assisted living facilities.

Ombudsman volunteers work with the Ombudsman supervisor to mediate between resident and facilities when there is a complaint or concern. The Ombudsman supervisor and volunteer serve as the voice for the residents and their friends and families.

We will be offering a volunteer training in the very near future. If you are interested, please call Cherrie Nutley at 580-562-5032.                               

June 27, 2022

SWODA Aging Services offers respite to caregivers

By Tangela Benton, SWODA, 580-562-5026

Many caregivers struggle to provide care for their loved ones on their own. The South Western Oklahoma Development Authority (SWODA) Area Agency on Aging (AAA) believes it’s important caregivers know they are not alone in their struggle to help their loved ones.

SWODA AAA provides for respite services for eligible caregivers in partnership with the Department of Human Services, Aging Services Division.

Studies have shown caregivers will give better care, maintain their own health, and have reduced levels of stress if they can get away from the responsibilities of providing care even if it’s for only a few hours. Respite does just that. It provides a way for a caregiver to get out of the everyday routine of caring for their loved one. For example, a caregiver has the option of using respite services to go to a doctor’s appointment, to get their hair done, to visit friends at a coffee shop, or even go to a movie.

Caregivers are defined as "people of any age caring for someone 60 years of age or older with two Activities of Daily Living Impairments (dressing, bathing, eating, transferring, toileting, or walking) and/or requiring substantial assistance because of a cognitive or other mental impairment."

Also served are grandparents 55 years of age or older caring for grandchildren, step-grandchildren, or children related by blood or marriage and living with the child, serving as the primary caregiver, and having a legal relationship with the child (custody, guardianship or raising child informally). The child must be no older than 18 years.

To apply for respite services, call SWODA AAA at 580-562-5026. If the caregiver qualifies, they will receive $500 worth of vouchers. The caregiver can then contract with any person of their choice (other than someone living in the same home or under 18 years old) to provide respite services. There are no income or resource limitations.

These services are funded in part by state and Older Americans Act Funds from SWODA AAA and DHS Aging Services.

It is policy of SWODA AAA to serve all individuals who are eligible for its programs without regard to race, national origin, ancestry, color, religion, gender, age or disability.

SWODA is one of 11 Councils of Government in the state. SWODA’s region of service includes municipalities, counties and conservation districts in Beckham, Custer, Greer, Harmon, Jackson, Kiowa, Roger Mills and Washita counties.

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June 13, 2022

All long-term care facilities across region fully open

By Cherrie Nutley, SWODA Ombudsman Supervisor, 580-562-5032

Currently, all long-term care facilities are fully open to visitation. All common areas of the facilities are open with social distancing in place with screening and mask requirements. Here are a few tips to make your visit with residents go smoothly.

When wearing a mask, remember communication may be harder as residents may have hearing issues. It’s hard to listen when you can’t see mouths move. Be sure to speak up so residents can hear you. You may need to slip your mask down while at a safe distance to allow the resident you are visiting to see your face so they know who has come to visit.

Residents love to receive little gifts although the gift of your company is more than enough. Some suggested items are stationary, word search and other puzzle books ,puzzles and coloring books, flowers, lotions, soaps, candies, cookies, books, lap blankets, socks and wraps. Check with the facility if you want to bring items that all residents can enjoy.

The gift of your time is most welcomed. Even if you don’t have a loved one in the facility, they welcome visitors to come entertain residents. Can you sing, dance, or play a musical instrument? Your stage and a rapt audience await! Bingo callers are always needed, as are people who have a gift for teaching crafts or exercise classes.

The long-term ombudsman team are always looking for volunteers. If you have two hours a week to give to a long-term care facility, please give your area LTC Ombudsman Supervisor Cherrie Nutley a call at 580-562-5032.

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May 2, 2022

Join SWODA Aging Services in strengthening our community

By Tangela Benton, SWODA Information Assistant, 580-562-5026

Older adults play vital, positive roles in our communities – as family members, friends, mentors, volunteers, civic leaders, members of the workforce, and more. Just as every person is unique, so too is how they age and how they choose to do it – and there is no “right” way.

This year’s theme for Older American Month is Age My Way and focuses on how older adults can age in their communities, living independently for as long as possible and participating in ways they choose.

While Age My Way will look different for each person, here are common things everyone can consider:

·Planning: Think about what you will need and want in the future, from home and community-based services to community activities that interest you.

·Engagement: Remain involved and contribute to your community through work, volunteer, and/or civic participation opportunities.

· Access: Make home improvements and modifications, use assistive technologies, and customize supports to help you better age in place.

·Connection: Maintain social activities and relationships to combat social isolation and stay connected to your community.

The Administration for Community Living (ACL) leads the celebration of Older Americans Month, and SWODA Aging Services is excited to with our partners in the aging community. Diverse communities are strong communities. Ensuring that older adults remain involved and included in our communities for as long as possible benefits everyone.

For more information, visit the official OAM website, follow ACL on Twitter and Facebook, and join the conversation using #OlderAmericansMonth.

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April 19, 2022

Long-term care residents love birdseed and flowerbeds

By Cherrie Nutley, SWODA Ombudsman Supervisor, 580-562-5032

Spring has arrived and residents in area long-term care facilities are excited for more opportunities to get outside and enjoy the nice weather. Many facilities have space and encourage residents to be involved in the flowerbeds and vegetable gardens.

Check with a facility in your area to see if they need plants, seeds and gardening supplies for residents to use. Many facilities also have bird feeders, and birdseed is always appreciated.

Visitation is now open at all facilities with only an initial screening when you arrive. You will need to wear your mask and use the hand sanitizer located throughout each facility.

If you haven’t been allowed to visit your friends and families, please let me know. I, Cherrie Nutley, am your long-term care ombudsman supervisor for western Oklahoma. You can reach me at 580-562-5032.

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 January 31, 2022

Long-term care facilities need your help with activities for residents

From Cherrie Nutley, Ombudsman Supervisor, 580-562-5032

Facilities are working hard to maintain staffing levels to provide quality care. However, because of the shuffling of services, activities for residents have taken a back seat to actual patient care.

Please reach out to your local long-term care facility and see if they are interested in having your help with activities that are an integral part of quality care. If you have a good voice and like to entertain, facilities would love assistance with bingo, sing-alongs, and poetry or books readings. If you love crafts or puzzles, there is a place for you to volunteer. Donating puzzles, books, craft supplies or coloring supplies is another way to assistant. Check to see if there is a need for these donations in your area.

All nursing homes are required to allow their residents to have visitors as often and for as long as they wish. For protection of their residents, nursing homes are requiring screening before a visit and visitors must wear a mask.

If you have questions or concerns regarding a long-term care facility or a loved one in a long-term care facility, please give Cherrie Nutley, Ombudsman Supervisor a call at 580-562-5032 or email at cherrie@swoda.org.

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January 4, 2022

Masonic Fraternity of Oklahoma providing funds for services not provided by other agencies

By Tangela Benton, SWODA Information Assistant, 580-562-5026

The Masonic Fraternity of Oklahoma is once again partnering with the South Western Oklahoma Development Authority (SWODA) Area Agency on Aging (AAA), along with other Area Agencies on Aging across the state, to assist with funding direct services for people 55 years of age and older in need of some type assistance not otherwise provided by other agencies.

Some of the types of services include minor home repairs, wheelchair ramps, air conditioner window units or space heaters, and/or air condition or heater repairs.

There is an application and funds will be used on a first come, first served basis until they are all utilized. Funding for each type of service will be limited. Those who have desperate or unique needs should file an application because those situations considered on a case-by-case basis. Assistance will be available once per person every three year.

The SWODA Aging Services Information Assistant receives calls daily from older people and/or their caregivers with needs, and many are told nothing is available to help. This Masonic funding enables AAA staff to assist many callers with resources not available previously.

This funding “will not only help Oklahoma’s older population, but will also relieve some of the stress placed on caregivers whose older relatives are continually turned down because of the lack of resources for needed help,” said Anita Martinez, SWODA director of Aging Services.

To learn more about this and other available services, call Tangela Benton at SWODA Aging Services at 800-627-4882, ext. 126, or her direct line at 580-562-5926. You can also call the statewide toll-free Senior Info Line at 800-211-2116. Counties covered by the SWODA AAA are Beckham, Custer, Greer, Harmon, Jackson, Kiowa, Roger Mills and Washita.

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12/13/2021

Long-term care residents enjoy wide variety of Christmas gifts. Gift of time is most wanted.

By Cherrie Nutley, SWODA Ombudsman Supervisor, 580-562-5032

Happy Holidays! It’s that time of year for giving and remembering those living in long-term care, many of whom do not have family who live near or any family at all. These residents have access to everything they need to live, but everyone appreciates some extra luxuries. If you are looking for a place to give this Christmas, consider making a gift basket or box for your area long-term care facility.

Residents enjoy good socks, lotions, body sprays, talcum powder, warm gowns and pajamas, house shoes, books, magazine subscriptions, puzzles and puzzle books. Nice shampoo and body wash, lap blankets and robes. Bird Feeders, stationary, light jackets, walker bag for walker and seat cushions for wheelchairs. Small succulent gardens, snacks and room décor.

The most wanted Christmas gift is the gift of your time. Please remember to visit your friends, family and loved ones this holiday season. Visitation to all facilities is once again open at all times and every day. You must screen in and wear a mask, but you can visit as long as you want to.

If you feel your loved one is not being allowed visits or if you have not been allowed to visit or with any other complaints regarding your loved on and the long-term care facility they reside in, please call your area Ombudsman Supervisor Cherrie Nutley at 580-562-5032 or by email at cherrie@swoda.org.

12/13/2021

Assistance available to grandparents raising children

By Kris Patton, NWPSA 11 Information Assistant, 580-562-4887

If you are raising your grandchildren or some other relative, such as a niece or nephew and if you are 55 or older, the SWODA Area Agency on Aging has a respite care program that may be able to help.

The child must be no older than 18 years. The program may provide vouchers, to eligible applicants, for you to take a break from these caregiver duties. You can use the vouchers to hire a sitter or care provider of your choice. The sitter or care provider must be 18 years or older and not living in your household.

For more information, contact Kris Patton, SWODA Area Agency on Aging specialist, at 1-800-627-4882 ext. 127 or 580-562-5027.

These services are funded in part by state and Older Americans Act funds from NWPSA 11 AAA and DHS Aging Services.

It is policy of NWPSA 11 AAA to serve all individuals who are eligible for its programs without regard of race, national origin, ancestry, color, religion, gender, age, or disability.

NWPSA 11 is one of 11 Councils of Government in the state. SWODA’s region of service includes municipalities, counties and conservation districts in Beaver, Cimarron, Dewey, Ellis, Harper, Woods, Woodward and Texas counties.

September 20, 2021

Area optometrists working with SWODA to provide eye care assistance

Reduced-cost eye exams and eyeglasses are now available to area residents. Area optometrists in cooperation with South Western Oklahoma Development Authority (SWODA) Aging Services are making is possible for elderly people with vision impairments and who can’t afford treatment to receive needed services.

To qualify, you must be 60 years of age or older, and/or an ADvantage consumer. You also must live in Beckham, Custer, Greer, Harmon, Jackson, Kiowa, Roger Mills, and Washita counties. You must also meet certain income and resource guidelines. If you are an elderly and/or disabled Advantage applicant, you must not be case managed by any agency other than SWODA Aging Case Management.

You can apply from September 1, 2021, to May 31, 2022, by contacting Tangela Henry at 800-627-4882, ext. 126 or 580-562-5026. If you are a SWODA ADvantage consumer, you will need to contact your SWODA Aging Services Case Manager.

You will need to provide verification of income and resources through such documents as tax records, bank statement or Social Security check stubs. All information will be held confidential.

SWODA Aging Services thanks all optometrists who are working together to find solutions to problems and concerns of the aging and disabled in our area.

If you have questions or need additional information, please contact Tangela Henry at SWODA Aging Services, P.O. Box 569, Burns Flat, OK 73624 or telephone 800-627-4882, ext. 126 or 580-562-5026.

SWODA is one of 11 Councils of Government in the state. SWODA’s region of service includes municipalities, counties and conservation districts in Beckham, Custer, Greer, Harmon, Jackson, Kiowa, Roger Mills and Washita counties. 

SWODA was created to strengthen the economic and social development of the region through various specialized services such as the following: 911 Administration, Aging Services, Community and Economic Development, Geographic Information Systems, Rural Fire Defense and Workforce Development.

For more news articles specific for southwest Oklahoma, visit www.swoda.org.

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July 26, 2021

Feeling summer love in the nursing home

By Stacey Lee, NW PSA11 Ombudsman Supervisor, 580-562-5039

It is that time of the year when the heat is on. Summer is upon us, and the kids want to go outside and play in the water, eat watermelon and have ice cream. Parents are planning summer family vacations. Everyone is looking forward to fun and love this summer.

But, what about those who aren’t able to get outside and play in the water or take vacations? I’m talking about the elderly, the ones living in nursing homes or long-term care facilities. What can be done to make their summer as close to fun as it was when they were able? It can happen with volunteers.

Taking time to visit with residents in long-term care facilities is not only beneficial for the residents but for the volunteers as well. Helping a resident relive a memorable summer by just visiting with them brings them more joy than you can imagine. Spending time with them, reminiscing with them, eating watermelon or ice cream with them, or going outside with them are all things that volunteers can do with residents.

This summer, why not make your plans fun and filled with love for those in nursing homes by volunteering! Contact a nursing home in your area to visit, so you can bring joy to someone else’s life and to yourself. If you need help getting started or would like to become an ombudsman volunteer, contact Area Ombudsman Supervisor Stacey Lee, 580-547-9064, or email stacey@swoda.org. Flexible training schedules are available.

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April 26, 2021

We thank all volunteers especially those serving long-term care facilities

By Cherrie Nutley, SWODA Ombudsman Supervisor, 580-562-5032

This month of April, we’re celebrating all types of volunteers. I especially want to thank the wonderful ombudsman volunteers of our area: Beverly Shelden who volunteers at Corn Heritage in Weatherford; Delynn Anderson who volunteers at Tamarack Assisted Living Center in Altus; and Barbara Davis who recently retired from service after 20 years of service. Barbara volunteered at the Hobart Nursing Home.

If you have a heart for those who are living in long-term care facilities and the time to devote two hours per week to visit in a facility, you may be just who we are looking for. A volunteer visits a specified facility each week on their own schedule and makes time to check in with residents to see how they are doing, look at the facility and staff and see how that picture looks.

Residents will begin to look forward to your visits. Your main job as a volunteer is to be a voice for these residents and address concerns or needs. Volunteers are required undergo initial training before they begin making visits and to make visits of two hours per week to their chosen facility. Volunteers also meet once per month to go over events and visits and to do continuing education.

We’ve stopped our training for new volunteers through the COVID-19 Pandemic, but we’re gearing up to offer those trainings again. We’ll utilize Zoom meetings and social distanced in-person training. If you’re interested in learning more about the Ombudsman Program or in becoming a volunteer, contact Cherrie Nutley, long-term care ombudsman supervisor for Western Oklahoma at 580-562-5032.

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The Oklahoma Living Choice Program assists Oklahomans wanting to transition out of a nursing home and back into a residence of their own. For more information on the Oklahoma Living Choice program please call 888-287-2443 or email Oklahoma.livingchoice@okhca.org

Assistance for grandparents raising grandchildren

If you are raising your grandchildren or some other relative, such as a niece or nephew and if you are over 55, the SWODA Area Agency on Aging has a respite care program that may be able to help. The child must be no older than 18 years.

The program provides vouchers to eligible applicants to take a break from caregiver duties by hiring a sitter or care provider of their choice. The sitter or care provider must be 18 years or older and not living in your household.

For more information, contact Kris Patton, SWODA Area Agency on Aging specialist, at 1-800-627-4882 ext. 127 or 580-562-5027.

These services are funded in part by state and Older Americans Act funds from NWPSA 11 AAA and DHS Aging Services.

It is policy of NWPSA 11 AAA to serve all individuals who are eligible for its programs without regard of race, national origin, ancestry, color, religion, gender, age or disability.

NWPSA 11 is one of 11 Councils of Government in the state. SWODA’s region of service includes municipalities, counties and conservation districts in Beaver, Cimarron, Dewey, Ellis, Harper, Woods, Woodward and Texas counties.

SWODA was created to strengthen the economic and social development of the region through various specialized services such as the following: 911 Administration, Aging Services, Community and Economic Development, Geographic Information Systems, Rural Fire Defense and Workforce Development.

Volunteers handle concerns of residents of nursing homes, assisted living centers and residential care facilities

Residents of nursing homes, assisted living centers or residential care facilities may have common complaints such as quality of food served, temperature of the facility, lack of engaging activities, concerns about finances or how staff interacts with residents. Concerns are as varied as the population of the facilities, but once all the information is in place, remediation of most complaints is easy.

 To help with these concerns, there are extra eyes and ears of volunteers who represent and work for the residents and who then work with the long-care facility staff to mediate and/or resolve the complaints. These volunteers, known as long-term care ombudsmen, are committed to improving and enriching the lives of older people. 

Ombudsmen trained and then assigned to a facility in their area. These ombudsmen visit their facility a minimum of two hours each week. They are trained to look for and to deal with concerns that may arise and to refer those complaints to Ombudsman Supervisor Cherrie Nutley in the southwest or Ombudsman Supervisor Jerome Thomas in the northwest. Each month, the ombudsmen meet with Cherrie or Jerome to report on their facility and the residents there. They also participate in continuing education opportunities.

Cherrie or Jerome also do routine visits every three months to facilities. Ombudsmen receiving calls seeking assistance prompts additional visits by Cherrie or Jerome

The Ombudsman Program came about with the Nursing Home Reform Act of 1987. It basically states that all residents of nursing homes, assisted living centers or residential care facilities are entitled to receive quality care and live in an environment that improves or maintains the quality of their physical and mental health. 

If you are interested in finding out more about reporting concerns or becoming an ombudsman, please give Cherrie a call at 580-562-5032 or Jerome at 918-576-9565.

November 12, 2019

Waldrop has a legacy of volunteerism

By Cherrie Nutley, SWODA Area Agency on Aging Ombudsman Supervisor

On October 28, a retirement reception was held at Angelwood Assisted Living Center for W.C. Waldrop who had served as a Long Term Care Ombudsman Volunteer for 23 years.

Willie or Bill as he is affectionately known by most is a volunteer in the best sense of the word as he has a heart for helping those in need. He is a very good listener and in the world of Long Term Care this is of the utmost importance for residents at these facilities. 

Residents and staff of Clinton Therapy Center are used to seeing Bill come through just checking in. He always has a ready smile and most importantly, he makes one feel as if he has all the time in the world to just visit. On Bill’s application back in 1996 to become a Ombudsman Volunteer he put down that he wanted to make a positive difference in the lives of Long Term Care Residents . . . and he has.

Boy Scouts of America, the church, neighbors and The American Legion all have enjoyed having Bill as a volunteer. Bill likes to keep busy and has many hobbies including woodworking. Stop by Angelwood and see some of the models of bridges that Bill has built!

May 6, 2019

Join volunteers in serving elderly

By Cherrie Nutley, SWODA Area Agency on Aging Ombudsman Supervisor

Are you a person with a concern for older people and their needs? Do you love working with all different types of people? Do you have at least two hours per week to spare? Do your love to visit and listen? Do you have an interest in volunteering with those living in a long-term care facility? Then, this may be the volunteer opportunity for which you’ve been searching.

To sign up or if you need more information, please call Cherrie Nutley, (580) 562-4882, ext. 132. 

Ombudsman volunteers are needed in Beckham, Custer, Greer, Harmon, Jackson, Kiowa, Roger Mills and Washita counties. 

March 25, 2019

Volunteers make new home more welcoming

Welcome to your new home, in a new neighborhood and maybe a new town. These words may ring with excitement when you are young or ready to make a change in your life or lifestyle. They may not sound so exciting if the move you’re making is to a long-term care facility whether you made the decision for yourself or feel the decision was taken out of your hands by economic issues, health issues or just a need for a different living arrangement. 

Residents of long-term care facilities wish for good care, kind and patient staff, a companionable roommate, good food, interesting and fun activities, freedom of choice, visitors, telephone use and a quiet, clean environment. Not any different then what any of us wish. Residents have rights, and volunteer ombudsmen make sure those rights are respected.

If you have an interest in spending time with residents of long-term care facilities as a volunteer ombudsman you are in luck, Cherrie Nutley, ombudsman supervisor for your area, is preparing a new volunteer training for spring.  For more information just call Cherrie at (580) 562-4882.

SWODA Board Trustees receiving perfect attendance awards are (from left) Leo Goeringer, Washita County commissioner trustee; Cynthia Gerhardt, Custer County conservation district trustee; Sterling Moore, Roger Mills County conservation district trustee; John Dee Butchee, Jackson County conservation district trustee; Donna Gilpatrick, Greer County conservation district trustee; Geary Casell, Harmon County conservation district trustee; Thedis Mitchell, at-large representative; and Lyle Miller, Custer County commissioner trustee.