Oakwood Common Celebrates 'Older American Month'

By Margaret Blohm

Residents and staff of Oakwood Common are celebrating "Older American Month" with a variety of activities that demonstrate the vitality and aspirations of older adults along with their contributions to local communities.

Every year since 1963, May has been designated nationwide as a month to feature the talents, wisdom and life experience of older Americans. This year’s theme is “Unleash the Power of Age.”

“Our residents amaze us every day with their wisdom and many talents,” said Mary Granata, Oakwood Common’s director of sales. “During Older American Month, we’re encouraging residents to share their experiences with our staff.”

Individual staff members are invited to ask each resident two questions, including: “What is your greatest achievement thus far?” and “What is one piece of advice that you can share with me?”

Seniors’ responses will be recorded and shared for the community to enjoy.

To kick off the month-long celebration, Oakwood Common hosted an arts and crafts fair of residents’ work that included a variety of displays in Oakwood Common's Rotunda Room.

Paul Timar, a Ford Motor Company retiree and new resident at Oakwood Common, displayed some of his original acrylic paintings.

“I’ve given most of them away,” said Timer, who said he didn’t begin painting until age 30 when his wife gave him a painting set.

Watercolor artist and resident Shirley Balger, who once worked in sales at Hudson’s, also displayed her paintings which have been sold in art shows and other venues since she began painting as a child.

Several quilts and quilted pieces were displayed by residents Lillian Washington, Leslie Diane Straughter, Virginia Ebling, Hazel Dawson, and Joyce Faulds.

Other unique artwork included intricate wood carvings by Bob Rock, greeting cards and paintings by Janie Gorrell, and an Egyptian rug designed and hooked by Irene Madar, a former physical education teacher.

Otherie Love, who joined an arts and crafts class soon after her recent move to Oakwood Common, displayed several of the craft pieces she has made including a heart-shaped frame—fitting for her name.

George Stevens, the community’s well-known resident photographer, also displayed several of his beautiful nature pictures of wildlife and flowers, photographed on the grounds surrounding Oakwood Common. Several of his pieces decorate the hallways throughout this senior community.

“When you visit us, it’s easy to see there’s no age limit to talent and wisdom,” said Granata.

Later this month residents with musical talents will perform for the Oakwood community.