October Issue of The Trail Mix

In This Issue: The Trinity Woods Culture!

Garrett Lee, Trinity Woods CEO, shares more about what the real difference is in the community of Trinity Woods – the culture. The way the residents, employees and families are treated are what truly make Trinity Woods a unique place to live and work.

The courtesy that is woven into the Trinity Woods resident and employee culture is important and is what makes us special or as we like to say “neighborly”. For our community
to thrive and continue to be home to everyone who lives here, courtesy must be organic to
our communication with each other and to our way of life. Garrett is committed to prioritizing a
culture of courtesy, always, as a core personal practice and as a core belief of Trinity Woods. Learn more in this month’s issue of the Trail Mix.

In this issue Chaplain Tisdale highlights the Power of Letting Go and its ability to provide healing and strength. Wellness Nurse, Lupina Fry, provides helpful tips for preparing for Seasonal Changes in a Dementia Friendly Community.

October STAR Employees of the Month announced – Amber and Kristi!

October Wellness Events

This month is Trinity Woods’ annual Fall Festival on October 17th with an outdoor concert and special supper. We will also welcome the young talents from Metro Christian Academy to preform their One-Act Play, The Chronicles of Jane. And we will end the month with a playground adventure at Whiteside Park Playground. So much fun in the neighborhood!

New Neighbors
Meet Barry!

September Issue of The Trail Mix

In This Issue: Meet The New VP of Health Services!

We are pleased to welcome Emilie Creswell to Trinity Woods as the new Vice President of Health Services. Emilie comes to Trinity Woods with a wealth of experience in aging services. She has been a licensed long-term care Administrator for over 26 years!

 “I am excited to develop meaningful relationships with and serve alongside the remarkable team at Trinity Woods as we continuously improve both personalized quality of care and teh employee experience,” said Emilie.

Emilie is a highly knowledgeable senior living professional. Her balance of operational insight and relational style is a perfect fit for advancing and sustaining our health services. Emilie began her new role at Trinity Woods on August 28th. She is looking forward to getting to know the residents and their families and the Trinity Woods team.

In this issue we also highlight the Seven Dimensions of Wellness that are core to the Trinity Woods philosophy on aging and living well.

We also focus on Healthy Aging Month and focus on the positive aspects of growing older with a special article from Wellness Manager, Alison McMillan.

September STAR Employee of the Month announced – Adrienne!

September Wellness Events

This month is Trinity Woods’ annual Family Day celebration on September 7th. Fun for all around campus with model trains, petting zoo, photo booth and games galore! We also are featuring a Book Talk with author Julia Bryan Thomas and her book The Radcliffe Ladies’ Reading Club. And we can’t forget the concerts and shows – piano concert with Don Irwin and western show with Shelby Eicher, Jake Erwin, Steve Bagsby and Jacob Tovar! So much fun in the neighborhood!

New Neighbors
Meet Bob, Betsy and Joe and Jeanette!

Being a Good Samaritan

By Garrett Lee, Trinity Woods CEO

Most people long for peace of mind, security, and belonging. When the mission of Trinity Woods is successfully carried out, these are all gifts that residents can experience. I can think of no better demonstration of living out our mission to serve others in the spirit of Christ than what is modeled through our Good Samaritan Fund.

I’ve heard it said that it is more of a blessing to give than to receive. Clearly Trinity Woods recognized that all those years ago. They noticed that not only did we have an opportunity to serve and love each other in the spirit of Christ by the giving of our money and time but also, we have an opportunity to receive tremendous blessings by creating and giving to this Fund.

The need for benevolent care hasn’t changed, nor has the opportunity to be a part of something marked by generosity and kindness. Every year, we have the honor to serve people from all walks of life and every year, some of our precious neighbors through no fault of their own, experience something that can be traumatic; that is, they outlive their financial resources. Support comes to them through donors to the Good Samaritan Fund.

Each person who gives to this Fund is showing up for those who need help, and through this, we get the blessing of living out our promise at Trinity Woods to care for people for the remainder of their lives – allowing them to experience the amazing gift of peace of mind, security, and belonging.

Please join us as we carry out the responsibility of the Golden Rule and care for our neighbors. We ask you to prayerfully consider what your involvement in the Good Samaritan Fund could be this year, and I invite you to experience the blessing of generosity, as outlined to us through the life and ministry of Jesus. Click here to donate. For more information on how you can help, please call 918.346.6639.

August Issue of The Trail Mix

In This Issue: Being a Good Samaritan!

When the mission of Trinity Woods is successfully carried out, there is no better demonstration of living out the mission of serving others in the spirit of Christ than what is modeled through the Good Samaritan Fund. The need for benevolent care hasn’t changed, nor has the opportunity to be a part of something so significant and full of kindness.

Each year we come together as a community to solicit funds for this very worthwhile cause. We ask you to prayerfully consider what your involvement in the Good Samaritan Fund could be this year, and I invite you to experience the blessing of generosity, as outlined to us through the life and ministry of Jesus.

We are also excited to announce the launch of the Trinity Woods Neighborhood App! This new technology addition is sure to be a great resource for classes, dining and staying in contact with neighbors.

There is a special feature honoring Trinity Woods’ longest reigning resident – Philelle! Don’t this month’s spiritual wellness article by Rev. Weldon Tisdale call Ordinary Times.

August STAR Employees of the Month announced – Cynthia!

August Wellness Events

This month’s featured events include more Summer School classes. We also are featuring a Book Talk by Connie Cronley. We are hosting several musical concerts with dance styles from India to recording artists Kelly Ford and Cathy Venable. To round out the dog days of summer we are having a Hot Rods and Hot Dogs car show! There’s never a dull moment in the neighborhood!

New Neighbors
Meet Tom and Donna, and Brad and Faith!

July Issue of The Trail Mix

In This Issue: Gating The Trinity Woods Community!

Trinity Woods is pleased to announce that we have started the process of gating the community. Over the past several months, informational meetings were held for
residents to learn more about securing the campus by adding a gated entry system.
Gated communities are increasingly popular among seniors seeking a secure, serene, and sociable living environment.

We thank the people who supported this effort with their prayers and contributions. The project is already under way, and we expect to break ground in the coming months. The estimated completion date of the project is the end of the year, weather permitting.

We are also excited to announce Summer School classes. For the eighth year in a row, we are proud to offer Trinity Woods Summer School with a plethora of classes, all taught by Trinity Woods community members! There are 12 different classes this year, some with multiple sessions. Since classes are held right on campus and at different times, you can easily take part in every single class if you wish. We are very grateful to the instructors who are sharing their time and wealth of knowledge with their neighbors.

Don’t miss wellness feature articles: Rev. Weldon Tisdale and Making Your Wishes Known.

July STAR Employees of the Month announced – Sarah and Nick!

July Wellness Events

This month’s featured events include a the Annual Independence Day Parade and Ice Cream Social with special Grand Marshall WWII Veteran Dick Willhour. We also have Joshua Taylor in the Young Talent Discovery Concert. And don’t forget Supper and A Show with Preservation Barber Show Quartet. There’s never a dull moment in the neighborhood!

New Neighbors
Meet John and Donna, and Rhonda!

June Issue of The Trail Mix

In This Issue: Embracing the Journey!

At Trinity Woods we encourage people to live their best life and embrace retirement the way they always dreamed! In this issue we explore the wisdom that comes with aging and being open to the next chapter of life. Perhaps the most profound lesson gleaned from aging is the importance of living with intention and purpose. The wisdom of age implores us to seize each moment, to savor the simple pleasures, and to pursue our passions with unwavering zeal. Whether it’s pursuing a long-held dream, giving back to the community, or simply finding joy in the everyday moments, living life to the fullest means embracing each day as a gift and making the most of the time we have. As you will see in this issue, a few members have shared their insights on what makes life satisfying and sweet at any age.

What you will see as you read their advice is a poignant reminder that age is not merely a number but a testament to the richness of lived experiences. It’s a celebration of resilience, love, growth, and purpose—a testament to the enduring human spirit. So, let us heed the wisdom of age, for within its embrace lies the key to living a life of meaning, fulfillment, and abundance. We invite to the Trinity Woods way to belong, believe and become!

Your won’t want to miss special feature articles: about Father’s Day from Rev. Weldon Tisdale; Better Balance with Yoga from Wellness Manager Alison McMillan; and learn more about the Administrators in Training we are hosting at Trinity Woods.

June STAR Employee of the Month announced – Leslie!

June Wellness Events

This month’s featured events include a Young Talent Discovery Concert presented in partnership with Celebrity Attractions and the Tulsa PAC Trust, The Discovery Awards highlight and award excellence in high school musical theatre. A book review from Jeffrey Schmidt is Associate Professor of Marketing & Supply Chain and Associate Director, Marketing and Supply Chain Management at the University of Oklahoma. Don’t forget about the annual Men’s Event with guest speaker National Football League referee Clay Martin. And more concerts, classes and outings!

New Neighbors
Meet Jerry and Julie, and Phala!

May Issue of The Trail Mix

In This Issue:

Garrett Lee, New Trinity Woods CEO,

A new era is beginning, not only for Trinity Woods, but for newly hired CEO Garrett Lee. With over 16 years of combined executive-level operational, finance, compliance, and acquisitional experience, in the health care industry Garrett is ready to start his journey with Trinity Woods.

Garrett writes an open letter to the Trinity Woods community expressing his excitement for this new opportunity. “I cannot tell you how excited I am to join the Trinity Woods family and help continue the good work that has gone on here for many years, making it the amazing place it is today. Perhaps what
I am most looking forward to is getting to know and building meaningful relationships with each
of YOU.”

Your won’t want to miss special feature articles: one from Tom Simmons, Trinity Woods resident, about growing a garden. The other asks the questions, is a Life Plan Community right for you?

May STAR Employee of the Month announced – Sandra!

May Wellness Events

Wellness Nurse, Lupina Fry, encourages us to get outside for better health. With springtime in our grasp is the perfect time to observe nature and receive mental and physical health benefits.

This month’s featured events include a performance from Tulsa Performing Arts Center’s Orbit Initiative, amateur senior thespians from around Tulsa, who will be performing Cinderella. Supper and a Show will feature young professional singers and Trinity Woods audience favorites Sam Briggs and Alex Johnson, accompanied by pianist Christy Stalcup, present a program all about spring. And more concerts, classes and book reviews!

New Neighbors
Meet Zella!

April Issue of The Trail Mix

In This Issue:

Trinity Woods CEO, Steve Dickie Says Thank You

After 20 years of serving the Trinity Woods community, Steve Dickies says farewell and thank you.

What warms my heart as I say “goodbye”? I am thankful for the strong governance provided by the board. I am grateful for the dedication and commitment of my colleagues on the leadership team. I am appreciative of all the love and support offered by the members of this great community.

As we look back on the last 20 years who could have imagined all the progress we would make as an organization? Moving to person-centered model of healthcare, completing the development of Crestwood, promoting whole-person wellness, building the new Holliman Center, adding Memory Care Assisted Living, and completing the Community Life Center have all been major accomplishments!

April STAR Employees of the Month announced – Cecelia and Tasha!

April Wellness Events

Wellness Manager, Alison McMillan shares interesting information on music has astonishing and profound effect on our bodies and minds.

This month’s featured events include a performance from Metro Christian Academy’s theater department. Supper and a Show will feature the works of Henry Mancini performed by Janet Rutland, John Wooley and Scott McQuade. And more concerts, classes and book reviews!

New Neighbors
Meet Ron and Martha!

What I Am Doing Here?

By Duane Blankenship, Trinity Woods Resident

Janice and I lived in three wonderful homes east of Broken Arrow for a total of 46 years. In May of
2023, we acknowledged that we needed a plan that would define how and where we would spend
our Golden Years. Two weeks later we attended a presentation by Trinity Woods’ CEO Steve
Dickie and the sales team. Our eyes were opened! Early the next morning we headed to Trinity
Woods for a tour of available properties and received answers to all our questions.

Together, we had decided that now was a great time to implement plans for a final move. We
were getting older, had no relatives living near us, and did not want to leave the Tulsa area where I
had lived for nearly 60 years. Plus, I cherished the thought of no more mowing, edging, trimming,
replacing broken sprinkler heads, repairing or replacing appliances, making repairs to our home
and property as needed, no more utility bills, etc. And we did not want to be a burden to our kids
as we got older. Getting the idea?

We’ve now lived in our new Trinity Woods patio home for seven months and there is no place we
would rather be! Every aspect of Trinity Woods has exceeded our expectations! We love our new
home and the Trinity Woods community. It’s a perfect fit for us! We never expected to make so
many friends so quickly. There are so many activities in which to participate to keep our brains
and bodies healthy and the entire community is welcoming, helpful, friendly, and fun! Our kids
are delighted that we are so happy, and our friends compliment us for making the decision to
move to Trinity Woods.

Charter Oak, Cypress Grill and Tree Top, combine to provide exceptional dining choices for
breakfast, lunch and dinner. And all the food at Trinity Woods is excellent! Plus, seemingly endless
amenities, entertainment and opportunities for self improvement abound!
In short, Janice and I feel like we’ve moved to a fine resort to spend the remainder of our Golden
Years with wonderful, new friends!

And just for the record, we know what we’re doing with our future! Do you?

March Issue of The Trail Mix

In This Issue:

Trinity Woods Resident Answers the Question – Why Trinity Woods?

When people move to Trinity Woods, friends and family starting asking a lot of questions. This was no different for the Blankenships. In this month’s issue Duane answers the questions of why and specifically why now?

After 46 years of homeownership, they made the “best decision” for them to live their best lives. The Blankenships talk about their “why” and what have been the biggest surprises along the way. Learn more about their journey to retirement living – the way they chose!

In March we will celebrate Holy Week. Learn more about opportunities to increase your spiritual health.

March STAR Employee of the Month announced – Sherrick!

March Wellness Events

The calendar is full of ways to connect, listen to music, read books and more!

This month we feature a special St. Patrick’s Day event to welcome new residents. Entertainment will include dancers from the Goode Academy of Irish Dance and an educational performance by the City of Tulsa Pipes & Drums band. Erin go bragh!

New Neighbors
Meet Jan and Chuck!

February Issue of The Trail Mix

In This Issue:

Bears that Care – Neighbors Spreading Kindness!

In 2010 Elizabeth started making special little bears for the people living at Trinity Woods. She originally started making them for the birthdays of residents of the Holliman Center and now she focuses her efforts on residents who are in the
Trinity Woods Health Center. Each bear is made by hand with a handwritten
scripture and note of encouragement. Elizabeth hopes the Trinity Bears legacy goes beyond just individual interactions and contributes to a stronger, more connected community.

If you are interested in getting involved with this group of volunteers, please contact Irene Brown,
Trinity Woods Life Enrichment Coordinator, at ibrown@trinitywoodstulsa.com or 918.346.6614.

Nominate someone for the Trinity Woods Board of Directors!

February STAR Employees of the Month announced – Jennifer and Vanna!

February Wellness Events

The month of February is famous for the celebration of Love. It’s a time to celebrate relationships with family, friends, spouses, and connections that make life worthwhile. We spend time finding the right gift to show our appreciation of those relationships. However, we often forget one of the most important relationships—the one we have with ourselves. If we don’t take care of ourselves, we can’t serve those we love.

This month we feature special events, such as the Valentine Celebration with special entertainment by Grady Nichols; Don Irwin Piano Concert and a Book Review about the Colorado Passes!

New Neighbors
Meet Janet, Gloria, and Martha!

January Issue of The Trail Mix

In This Issue:

Reflection on the State of the Woods

January is the perfect time to count the blessings of last year and envision the promise of the year ahead. Last year we faced unprecedented challenges, we have emerged stronger, more cohesive, and with a renewed sense of purpose. The year ahead will bring significant change along and renewed commitment to our mission of serving the Trinity Woods family in the spirit of Christ. Building strong, lasting relationships with our residents and employees has been a cornerstone of our success, and we remain committed to excellence and growing this amazing community.

Meet the 2024 Trinity Woods Member Council!

January STAR Employee of the Month announced – Lori!

January Wellness Events
Highlights for spiritual wellness for 2024 and tips for keeping for New Year’s Resolutions!

We kick off the new year with a piano concert from award-winning pianist Joseph Kingma. There will also be a book review and a new series to help maintain cognitive function (thinking and memory skills) call the BE Brain Enrichment Course that you won’t want to miss.

New Neighbors
Meet Ann, Jerri and Joyce!

December Issue of The Trail Mix

In This Issue:

Christmas in the Woods

It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas on the campus of Trinity Woods. Lights, holiday activities and Christmas in the Woods! We are excited to host this annual holiday favorite. On Thursday, December 7th from 6 to 8 p.m. Trinity Woods will showcase a night of good old-fashioned holiday fun.

“This event is the core of who we are as a community and brings people together in a special way,” said Steve Dickie, CEO. “Trinity Woods community members, families, friends, and employees are all encouraged to attend this event. It is sure to put everyone in the holiday spirit!”

New Vice President of Human Resources announced, Crystal Creekmore.

December STAR Employees of the Month announced – Jennifer and LeaAnn!

November Wellness Events
Wellness Nurse, Lupina Fry, share some tips for coping with holiday stresses. No matter the cause of your mood or feelings, it’s important to have a toolkit of healthy coping strategies.

We also celebrate the holiday season with lots of Christmas events that will showcase Tulsa talent – Sistema Tulsa, Regent Preparatory Choir, United Methodist Bell Choir and a special Christmas piano concert featuring Don Irwin.

New Neighbors
Meet Mouzon and Gayle, Dick and Gerry and Chelley!

November Issue of The Trail Mix

In This Issue:

Fostering a Culture of Courtesy

In an increasingly fast-paced and interconnected world, where differences abound and personal space is often compromised, a culture of courtesy is more essential than ever. Courtesy, defined as polite behavior and respectful manners, is the glue that holds a community together. It promotes positive interactions, fosters understanding, and ensures a harmonious coexistence among people from diverse backgrounds. This article delves into the significance of cultivating a culture of courtesy and its impact on society.

Trinity Woods Board members, employees and residents gathered together with facilitator Kay Collier McLaughlin to refresh and affirm the Trinity Woods Culture of Courtesy we all agree to work and live by. The day was full of open discussions on how best to be a good neighbor and support a healthy community. Participants walked away with a better understanding of how to disagree with someone respectfully by engaging in a discussion instead of a debate and listening to others point of view.

The Culture of Courtesy is not a mere nicety but a fundamental building block of a thriving community. It is the foundation upon which respect, empathy, trust, and social harmony are constructed. We know this is a collective responsibility to foster these values and ensure that they remain a driving force in our interactions with each other. In a world that is constantly evolving, the culture of courtesy is a timeless and invaluable treasure that we must cherish and preserve.

November STAR Employee of the Month announced – Crystal!

November Wellness Events
Wellness Nurse, Lupina Fry, discuss all the lessons learned from Covid that should still be in practice as we enter cold and flu season.

We also celebrate Veterans Day with Nathan Hale High School ROTC will present the colors. Joshua Taylor, a senior at Jenks High School, will sing the National Anthem.

The month won’t be complete without a Thanksgiving Reception, Saturday at the Symphony and a good old fashion Oklahoma sing-a-long!

New Neighbors
Meet Tom and Patsy and Carolyn!

October Issue of The Trail Mix

In This Issue:

Searching for a New CEO

The Trinity Woods Board began planning for this transition over a year ago. When the current CEO Steve Dickie announced his desire to retire from Trinity Woods after 20 years of service. Knowing that the CEO is the driving force behind setting vision, guiding strategy, and ensuring long-term success, Task Force members know they have an important job ahead of them.

“The search for a new CEO is a critical and complex undertaking,” said Jim Taylor, Trinity Woods
Board Member and Chair of the Succession Planning Task Force. “The team who has been
identified to do this knows the importance of their work. I am confident we will find the right
leader that will provide Trinity Woods a clear vision, guide decision-making, inspire us, and build
on our strong reputation.”

To date there has been a strong response to the job listing, each candidate will be carefully
evaluated by the Task Force. Between now and the end of the year the field will be narrowed
to a few final candidates. The final selection will align with the leadership requirements and the
vision of Trinity Woods. Early next year, when the new CEO is chosen, the onboarding process will begin to ensure a seamless transition. Anyone interested in applying is encouraged visit the Trinity Woods website.

October STAR Employees of the Month announced – Aaron and Nita!

October Wellness Events
This month we host the Fall Festival! It will be a great evening with outdoor games, food and concert. We also are hosting the talented students from Metro Christian Academy. They will be showcasing their One Act Play – Unsounds Effects. This month wouldn’t be complete without a neighborhood favorite – Trunk or Treat on October 27th!

New Neighbors
Meet Kay!

Celebrating the Generosity of Legacy Giving

Many of us have causes we have donated to throughout our lifetime to help charities and nonprofits with funding their mission. But have you ever thought about what it would look like to continue that generosity past your lifetime?

In the philanthropy world that is called a planned gift or legacy giving. While donations during your lifetime usually answer the question: “How can I help today?”. Planned or legacy gifts answer the questions: “How can I help tomorrow?” and “How would I like to be remembered?”.

These types of gifts to a charity or non-profit organization are usually in your last will and testament. They can include a piece of property, cash, a percentage of your estate or, in the case of Trinity Woods a donation of your membership fee refund. Legacy gifts play a key role in supporting charitable organizations, that is why the Tin Man Society was created.

“In November the Tin Man Society will celebrate 10 years of people leaving their legacy at Trinity Woods by making a commitment to the future of this organization,” said Steve Dickie, CEO. “Over the years gifts that have come from Tin Man Society members have really allowed Trinity Woods to do great things to continue our mission. These types of gifts are critical to making a difference for years to come.”

The Tin Man Society was established in 2013 by members as a way to ensure the mission of Trinity Woods endures. It is a legacy giving program that recognizes donors who support Trinity Woods through their estate plans, wills or gifts of assets.

If you are interested in becoming a member of the Tin Man Society through a legacy gift, you can learn more about opportunities on page 3 or feel free to reach out to Bonnie Polak at bpolak@trinitywoodstulsa.com or 918.346.6639

September Issue of The Trail Mix

In This Issue:

The Legacy of Trinity Woods!

For more than 65 years, Trinity Woods has been serving people in the spirit of Christ. But that would not have been possible without gracious donors who believed in our mission and purpose. There is not a building on this campus that has not been made possible without philanthropy – Spann Wellness Center, Fleming Center, Holliman Center and the Community Life Center. That kind of true partnership is what makes Trinity Woods special.

“In November the Tin Man Society will celebrate 10 years of people leaving their legacy
at Trinity Woods by making a commitment to the future of this organization,” said Steve
Dickie, CEO. “Over the years gifts that have come from Tin Man Society members have really
allowed Trinity Woods to do great things to continue our mission. These types of gifts are
critical to making a difference for years to come.”

Trinity Woods’ legacy of giving is reflected every day in the dedicated efforts of our Board, employees, community members, and donors who have shaped our community for the better. The power of philanthropy is what changes organizations – some givers may never see their gifts come to fruition but can courageously imagine what is possible. It is the givers who ensure there will always be a home where elders find a life worth living. 

September STAR Employee of the Month announced – Heidi!

September Wellness Events
This month we host the Tulsa Community Band in a special outdoor concert. We are excited to welcome Trinity Woods loved ones for the annual Trinity Woods Family Day! In honor of grandparents day, we invite all generation out to see campus and experience a day of fun activities for all ages. Supper & A Show features Reflejos Flamencos an spicy and romantic, Spanish flamenco dancing team. Meet new friends as well as enjoy a casual meal and some great music.

New Neighbors
Meet Duane and Janice!

August Issue of The Trail Mix

In This Issue:

The New Indoor Golf Experience at Trinity Woods!

Have you ever wondered what it would be like to play a round of golf at Pebble Beach or St. Andrews, just like the professionals? Well, now you can at Trinity Woods’ new Indoor Golf Experience, located on campus.

“We are so excited to offer this new activity to our residents,” said Steve Dickie, Trinity Woods CEO. “Whether you are an every day golfer, trying to fi ne-tune your swing, or just trying to do something fun with your friends, this is a great opportunity.”

The Indoor Golf Experience features golf simulator technology that is used by novice and professional golfers all over the world. Residents can play a round of golf on one of 25 golf courses, have a long drive contest, or just practice. The golf simulator can also provide immediate swing analysis data such as
angle and speed.

This new experience available at Trinity Woods would not have been possible without the generosity of Rich and Barbara Lilienthal. Be watching for more information on the Indoor Golf Experience location, times of play, and tutorial sessions.

August STAR Employee of the Month are announced – Barbara!

August Wellness Events
There are still amazing summer school classes to experience – Adult VBS, Intro to Mah Jongg, Poetry and more! A great article on summer sun safety you will not want to miss. This month we welcome back Donald Ryan for a special piano concert and there is Supper & A Show. Get out your poodle skirts and Brylcreem and let’s party! We are encouraging people to wear their 1950s attire, if they have it. A good time will be had by all at this relaxed gathering that is a chance to meet new friends as well as enjoy a casual meal and some great music.

New Neighbors
Meet Bob, Garry and Sally!

July Issue of The Trail Mix

In This Issue:

Summer School is in Session!

We are excited to announce that the Trinity Woods Summer School sessions are back by popular demand – and there are more options than ever for lifelong learning!

This year will mark the seventh year of Trinity Woods Summer School all taught by our very own community members in July and August.

All the classes will be held on the Trinity Woods campus. The classes are all at different times, which makes it easy to take part in as many classes as you wish. Peruse the
fascinating course offerings and see what you would like to learn more about. Class will soon be in
session!

July STAR Employee of the Month are announced – Angie!

July Wellness Events
In July we will feature young talent from Tulsa with the Young Talent Discover Night and we are excited to welcome back Barron Ryan for a special piano concert. It wouldn’t be the Trinity Woods neighborhood without Supper & A Show. Singer Janet Rutland and her husband, fiddler Shelby Eicher, return for a night of country music with plenty of Patsy Cline. They’ll be joined by Spencer Sutton on piano and Rodney Lay on bass. Join in this relaxed gathering that is a chance to meet new friends as well as enjoy a casual meal and some great music!

New Neighbors
Meet Betty and Dorothy!

Just Another Reason Exercise is Great for You!

By Alison McMillan, Wellness Manager

Scientists have been hard at work researching exercise, knowing that brain health is a top concern among older adults. We’ve seen studies that show that exercise reduces the risk of developing
Alzheimer’s. Imaging studies have shown that the hippocampus (the area of the brain that stores long term memories) is greater in volume in adults aged 59 to 81 who are more aerobically active than those who are not. Those same adults also showed better performance in memory tasks. Lastly, studies have shown exercise can lead to improved learning, attention, and memory for patients with early-stage Alzheimer’s, Schizophrenia, or brain injuries. Overall, studies indicate that exercise is beneficial for
brain health.

But how?

Researchers are studying hormonal and chemical changes in exercising mice, and have seen an increase in a chemical called Irisin, which is produced by muscles during exercise. This chemical was
found to boost protein levels in the hippocampus that promotes neuron growth and health in the brain. Irisin also was found to decrease the inflammation in the brain that causes Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. Knowing this, scientists are confident that the effect is similar in humans because the Irisin composition is identical in mice and humans. Studies already show that post exercise, there is a boost of Irisin levels in humans. In examinations of Alzheimer’s patients, Irisin’s precursor protein was 70% less than in patients without Alzheimer’s. This leads scientists to believe that Irisin is linked as protective to the neurons.

So, to summarize, exercise is great for brain health by helping new neurons and connections grow and be healthy and helps reduce risk for Alzheimer’s. All the more reason to go outside, or head to the gym for an exercise class or to use the machines every day!

Source: National Geographic “New clues are revealing why exercise can keep the brain healthy” June 2022

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