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
Category: Trail Mix Newsletter
Just Another Reason Exercise is Great for You!
Navigating and Finding Joy in the Journey of Aging
By Steve Dickie, CEO
In the age of the smartphone, we have instant access to driving directions that are delivered with GPS precision. But where do we go for a “roadmap” to guide us through the aging process? How do we fi nd help navigating the confusing mix of complex issues when our care needs begin
to change?
On Thursday, June 15th Trinity Woods is extending an open invitation to all who are navigating the journey aging. This is the great session for parents, their adult children and anyone walking through making decisions for seniors.
This 90-minute event will open with a summary of the book, “They’re Your Parents Too!” which is subtitled “How Siblings Can Survive Their Parents’ Aging Without Driving Each Other Crazy.” Then we will off er a candid discussion about some of the most important questions
our family will face in the future:
When you get to the point where your care needs change, how will the roles and relationships among your adult children adapt?
Is there a way for you to help your adult children take on supporting roles?
What happens when old sibling rivalries emerge?
What family legacy do you want to pass on? What stories are important to remember?
How can decisions be made in a way that helps everyone make peace with change and loss?
“Your Parents” is like a “fi eld manual.” It off ers help for navigating through one of the most
challenging seasons in life. We hope this event will help initiate conversations. It can give you
directions to help navigate complex relationships and diffi cult exchanges. It can bring joy,
reconciliation, and peace to the journey of aging.
Filled with expert guidance from gerontologists, family therapists, elder-care attorneys,
financial planners, and health workers; resonant real-life stories; and helpful family negotiation
techniques, this is an indispensable book for anyone whose parents are aging. We hope you will
mark your calendar for Thursday, June 15 at 6:30 p.m. on the campus of Trinity Woods to be part
of this book discussion.
To learn more about this event and the book, see page 7 of the June Trail Mix Newsletter. You may also visit our website at TrinityWoodsTulsa.com or call 918.346.6671. This event is free and open to the public.
Let Those Cares Go
By Weldon Tisdale, Chaplain
Though I closed my eyes and tried to rest, my mind refused to turn off. I couldn’t stop wondering if I should have said or done something different.
Finally, I got up and went over to my computer, hoping to find some nugget of truth to ease my mind. Tears came to my eyes as I caught sight of a scripture someone had posted: “Cast thy burden upon the LORD, and he shall sustain thee: he shall never suffer the righteous to be moved” Psalm 55:22.
All week long, the Lord had been speaking to me about casting my burdens or cares upon Him–now here was that theme again! Suddenly, I knew I needed to hand over to Him all my worry about the situation and what would happen. If I’d messed up, He was big enough to handle it! I didn’t need to carry the burden.
Cares come in all sorts of different sizes and shapes. We can be careful about all the things we do, careful about what we’ve said or done, careful about other people, careful about our health — we seem to attract cares like a magnet! At the time, the cares on our shoulder seem heavier than anything else in the entire world could possibly be.
But whatever our care might be, we weren’t meant to carry it! We were meant to cast it. It’s actually prideful of us to insist on worrying and carrying our cares when God tells us to cast them. God cares perfectly for each one of us. He is our infallible heavenly Shepherd. He urges us to humble ourselves–admit our inability–and cast every worry, burden, and care upon Him.
“Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time: Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you.” 1 Peter 5:6-7
reprinted from christianperspective.net
June Issue of The Trail Mix
In This Issue:
You’re Invited to an Interactive Discussion On Aging
Thursday, June 15th Steve Dickie, Trinity Woods CEO, is extending an open invitation to all who are navigating the journey aging. This is the great session for parents, their adult children and anyone walking
through making decisions for seniors. This 90-minute event will open with a summary of the book, “They’re Your Parents Too!” which is subtitled “How Siblings Can Survive Their Parents’ Aging Without Driving Each Other Crazy.” We hope this event will help initiate conversations. It can give you directions to help navigate complex relationships and difficult exchanges. It can bring joy,
reconciliation, and peace to the journey of aging.
To learn more about this event and the book, you may visit our website at
TrinityWoodsTulsa.com or call 918.346.6671. This event is free and open to the public.
June STAR Employee of the Month are announced – Lori!
June Wellness
In June we celebrate all the men who live in the Woods with a special Men’s Gathering. Our special guest will be Ben Leslie, Chief Development Officer from the Folds of Honor. An F-16 fighter pilot in the Oklahoma Air National Guard, he became painfully aware of the realities families face when a loved one in uniform is fallen or disabled. This Oklahoma-based organization has become a national patriotic movement with chapters across the country. Ben Leslie, who has been with Folds of Honor for 12
years, will talk about their impact and some of the lives that have been changed through their work.
New Neighbors
Meet Sheila and Joe and Sharen!
May Issue of The Trail Mix
In This Issue:
Remembering the Good Samaritans
As we look forward to the month of May and Memorial Day, we take time to remember all the Good Samaritans who have left their mark on the campus and residents at Trinity Woods. We are surrounded by reminders of the “Good Samaritans” who have ensured that this community and its mission have thrived for over 65 years.
Each year we ask our community and generous supporters to give to the Good Samaritan Fund. Over the past few years this Fund has become one of the most urgent and critical areas of need for the people living at Trinity Woods. This Fund helps Trinity Woods residents when they need it most. If you feel led to help a fellow neighbor through the Good Samaritan Fund, please make a donation.
Click here to donate to the Good Samaritan Fund.
May STAR Employee of the Month are announced – Greg!
May Wellness
In May we celebrate all the ladies who live in the Woods with a special Ladies Luncheon with special guest Lisa Bain. Also coming this month is the rescheduled Pete ‘n’ Keely performance, that you won’t want to miss. And we can’t forget about – Spring Fling! We will gather with friends and neighbors to enjoy good food, games and music for this annual outdoor event.
New Neighbors
Meet Carol and Suzanne!
May Availability
Looking for a retirement lifestyle. Check out these great options that are available now! Click Here
April Issue of The Trail Mix
In This Issue:
Making a Difference Through Local Governance!
Meet the Trinity Woods Board of Directors. In the world of senior living communities, people often ask what sets Trinity Woods apart? Most of the time we focus on the people because that is truly what makes Trinity
Woods the community God has called us to be. One of the tremendous advantages of living at Trinity Woods is the benefit gained from the governance of a local Board.
April STAR Employees of the Month are announced – Dunel and Maria!
April Wellness
We highlight Holy Week programs. The TW Wellness Nurse offers ways to help deal with stress. And we can’t forget all the events – Wednesday Morning Musicale celebrates its 100th anniversary concert on our campus! Learn more about Volunteer Appreciation Week from Life Enrichment Coordinator, Irene Brown.
New Neighbors
Meet Anne, Doug and Elisabeth, and George and Carol!
March Issue of The Trail Mix
In This Issue:
Why Choose a Senior Living Community!
Steve Dickie, CEO of Trinity Woods, discusses the most frequently asked questions and what Trinity Woods residents say about living here. Learn more about Tulsa senior living and if the choice is right for you. It’s spring and a great time to get more active. Make sure you checkout the articles on spiritual and physical health.
March STAR Employees of the Month are announced – Carlena and David!
March Wellness
This month kicks off with a fully staged musical featuring Pete ‘n’ Keeley. We also welcome Scott McQuade, jazz pianist, for the first time in concert on campus. The month won’t be complete without “Supper and a Show” the entertainment will feature “swing” and a great meal!
New Neighbors
Meet John and Mary Alice, Allen and Marcia, and Red and June!
February Issue of The Trail Mix
In This Issue:
New Year and Making A Plan!
This month we are hosting a “Brunch and Learn” with special guest Mark Loeber from The Advancement Group. Mark has over 34 years of experience in estate and charitable giving planning and regulations. A new year always brings new information about changes in tax laws and philanthropic guidelines. This seminar will be a great way to learn ways to save on taxes and make a plan for your legacy.
February is also Heart Health month – Lupina Fry, TW Wellness Nurse share some simple ways to improve your heart health.
We also announce the February STARS Employees of the Month – Emi and Irene!
February Wellness
We are excited to host the Tulsa Youth Symphony Chamber, a special book club and the annual Valentine Celebration of Friendship, Community and Love events. The Wellness Team also welcomes its newest team member Alison, the Spann Wellness Center Manager.
New Neighbors
Meet Ed! And this month there is a special story about Trinity Woods Health Care member Leroy, that you will not want to miss!
December Issue of The Trail Mix
In This Issue:
It’s Christmas Time at Trinity Woods
Seasons Greetings! You’re invited to Christmas in the Woods. Our annual holiday tradition that puts everyone in the Christmas spirit. This year the event is scheduled for Thursday, December 8th.
Trinity Woods is seeking Board Nominations.
We also announce the December STARS Employees of the Month – Mandie!
December Wellness
There are several special services to highlight the holiday – Christmas Service hosted by Boston Avenue and New Year’s Eve Service. Additionally this year brings lots of opportunities for music and holiday tunes. Mark your calendar for all the events, from sing-a-longs to piano concerts you will not want to miss anything this month.
New Neighbors
Meet Bill and Aneta!
December Availability
We are featuring the Magnolia floor plan in Crestwood. Click here for more information!
November Issue of The Trail Mix
In This Issue:
Celebrating Trinity Woods Veterans
This month we highlight those who serve and have served our country with honor – American veterans. Every year Trinity Woods takes time to celebrate and thank these very special people, both men and women who have served, with a special program. The event this year will be held Friday, November 11 at 2 p.m. in the Fleming Center.
Make sure you check the new name of the Bargain Basement – The Treasure Chest!
We also announce the November STARS Employees of the Month – Michael and Anderson!
November Wellness
As the holidays approach Jennifer Rawlings, VP of Wellness, shares tips for managing stress and keeping fit. There are also several featured events this months – Conversation with Chief Wendell Franklin, Dancing with Michael Loman and a Thanksgiving Reception!
New Neighbors
Meet Sharon, Dennis and Norma, and Jean!
November Availability
We are featuring the Maple floor plan in Crestwood. Click here for more information!
October Issue of The Trail Mix
In This Issue:
Tranquility Wellness Spa
Are you looking for a more tranquil life? Well look no further – the Tranquility Wellness Spa is just the place. This state-of-the-art spa allows residence to freshen up their hair, get a manicure or pedicure and for real relaxation a massage. This month we are also offering a grief Workshop for people looking for support through any type of loss. We also announce the October STARS Employees of the Month – Stephanie and Kelley!
October Wellness
We are excited to extend an invitation to community members and friends to the Annual Trinity Woods Trunk or Treat event scheduled for October 28. October will host many events from concerts, book clubs, pickleball and Fall Festival!
New Neighbors
Meet Dennis and Phil and Lela!
October Availability
This month we announced an amazing Year End Special for the Felt House. Click here for more information!
September Issue of The Trail Mix
In This Issue:
Inspiring the Workforce of Tomorrow
Learn more about the Trinity Woods Student Internship Program. We are proud that after two year, and one pandemic, the program is still going strong and the students are still being inspired by serving elders. Trinity Woods is showcasing this unique and innovated program that changes lives. We also announce the September STARS Employee of the Month – Dorothy! And meet the new faces at Trinity Woods – Jerome Steele in Finance and Alec Davis in the Sales Office.
September Wellness
We are excited to extend an invitation to community members and friends to the Annual Trinity Woods Health & Wellness Fair! Come learn about offerings on campus and what is available from the surrounding community. The Annual Health & Wellness Fair will be held on Thursday, September 15th from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the Community Life Center.
New Neighbors
Meet Rita and Oakley!
September Availability
This month we are showcasing the Crestwood residences. Contact us to learn more about some special offers that are currently available. Click here for more information!
August Issue of The Trail Mix
In This Issue:
Celebrating One Year for the Community Life Center
It has been one year since we opened the Trinity Woods Community Life Center. This space has allowed us to truly bring together our community in so many ways. We are excited to host “The Big Show” to celebrate this special anniversary with lots of performers and fun! We announce the August STARS Employees of the Month – Clarence and Amy!
August Wellness
This month we finish out our summer school schedules with Japanese Culture, Jewelry Making and Recycling. We also are excited to announce the new Biodex Balance System to our therapy program. We also have the Eicher Thursday concert for the music lovers in the neighborhood!
New Neighbors
Meet Bob and Toni!
August Availability
This month we are showcasing the Patio Homes residences. Click here for more information!
July Issue of The Trail Mix
In This Issue:
Summer School at Trinity Woods
We are excited to showcase the lifelong learning that is happening through the Trinity Woods Summer School programs. These classes are taught by our very own community members. We have a variety of different options sure to pique everyone’s interests. We announce the July STARS Employees of the Month – Cathy and Laura!
July Wellness
This month we welcome Lori Fullbright from Tulsa’s Channel 6, will tell us about the latest cons, frauds, and scams. We also have several concerts for all the music lovers in the neighborhood – Amt Cottingham and Eicher Thursday!
New Neighbors
Meet Donna and Carson and Tom!
July Availability
This month we are showcasing the residences in Crestwood. Click here for more information!
June Issue of The Trail Mix
In This Issue:
Good Samaritan – Paving the Way
This month we talk about being the Good Samaritan for your neighbor. We also celebrate 10 years of wellness at Trinity Woods. We look back at what we have achieve and honor those who began the journey with when we opened Crestwood. Join us for a Crestwood birthday party on June 10th! We announce the May STARS Employee of the Month – Rosal!
May Wellness
We announce Wendell Franklin, Tulsa Chief of Police, as the special guest for the annual Men’s Shindig. Featured events include a trip to Oklahoma City, Don Irwin piano concert, Richard Miller guitar concert and Book Club with Mary Helen Stanley, a community favorite.
New Neighbors
Meet Erna and Linda!
June Availability
This month we are showcasing the brand new Villa that is available. Click here for more information!
May Issue of The Trail Mix
In This Issue:
Celebrating the Neighborly Way of Life
This month we explore what make the Trinity Woods neighborhood special – what are you waiting for? You won’t want to miss the article on Pickleball the fast growing sport in the US. We also celebrate the May STARS Employees of the Month – Karen and Tim!
May Wellness
We are brining back Spring Fling! A great afternoon with fellowship, fun, and food! Featured events include a trip to Pawnee, Lyndon Myer Piano Concert, and Eicher Thursday a community favorite.
New Neighbors
Meet Betty and Evelyn!
May Availability
This month we are showcasing the Maple Floor Plan in Crestwood. Click here for more information!
April Issue of The Trail Mix
In This Issue:
Memory Care Houses – A Year in Review
It has been one year since we opened the Marshall-Gaddy and Barnes memory care assisted living houses on campus. In this issue we hear from Memory Care Manager, Sadie Krywicki about what makes these houses so special. We also celebrate the April STARS Employees of the Month – Delisa and Japhari!
April Wellness
Trinity Woods announces the return of Meet the Chef! We also highlight all the Holy Week services on campus with special guest speakers. This month we several different concerts along with the book club.
New Neighbors
Meet Matt and Teilla; Don and Judy; and Betty!
March Issue of The Trail Mix
In This Issue:
Announcing New Independent Living Options
We are excited to offer three new villas. Learn more about these new homes coming to campus. Chaplain Weldon Tisdale, welcomes all to the Ash Wednesday service. We also celebrate the March STARS Employees of the Month – Amanda and Harriet!
March Wellness
Trinity Woods person centered approach to wellness and all the ways on ways to engage on campus. This month’s events feature concerts, book club and a St. Patrick’s Day Celebration.
New Neighbors
Meet Peggy!
Welcome Heidi!
Trinity Woods is excited to welcome Heidi Garrett to the team! Heidi is the new Executive
Administrative Assistant to Steve Dickie, CEO, and Bonnie Polak, VP of Philanthropy and Community
Engagement. She was born in California but was raised all over the US because her father was in
the military. She is a graduate of Kellyville High School and is currently attending Penn Foster
College for her Bachelor of Science in Business Administration. Prior to taking on this new role
Heidi was an Event Coordinator at the Tulsa City-County Library. “I am excited to learn more about
Trinity Woods, take on new opportunities and challenges, and truly get to know the amazing
individuals that make the community a great place,” said Heidi. She has been married to her
husband Matt for 22 years and they have one son named Ian.
FUN FACTS ABOUT HEIDI:
» Favorite Book: The Body in the Library by Agatha Christie
» Favorite Fast Food: In & Out Burger
» Hobbies: Quilting, word puzzles and reading mystery novels
February Issue of The Trail Mix
In This Issue:
Tin Man Society Dinner in February
Special guest speaker Jill Donovan will highlight this night that focuses on kindness through philanthropy. Learn more about leaving your legacy!
February Wellness
Celebration of Black History month by Chaplain Tisdale. Highlights from the Maintain Don’t Gain Challenge. Valentine Celebration – Friendship, Community, and Love!
New Neighbors
Meet Mary, Norma, and Don and Chris!