OKDHS Aging Services Programs Turns Client's Life Around

OKLAHOMA CAPITOL -- The Oklahoma Department of Human Services (OKDHS) has issued its 2012 Annual Report, recognizing several Oklahomans who have used the agency’s services and programs to overcome obstacles and find success.

The report, entitled “75 Years of Service for Oklahoma,” featured Oklahoma City resident Roger Picard.  As a client of OKDHS’ Aging Services, Picard credits the agency with helping him maintain his health and his independence.

“I lost my wife a few years ago and was on the brink of suicide,” says the 68-year old.  “When you work so many years and come to a dead stop, you feel dead.  Nothing to do, nothing to care for.  That’s when DHS stepped in.”

Picard became involved in the ADvantage Program, administered through OKDHS.  That program helped him get the proper medications he needs.  The agency also helped Picard stay busy by becoming active in a volunteerism program.  These days he works in the kitchen of his retirement center, delivers meals to those who can’t get out, and was even elected housing representative.

“We have a lot of people here who couldn’t live without DHS,” Picard said, “because they absorb the biggest amount of problems they have money-wise.  Some live on food stamps, some like me need medications.  We also need to feel useful and volunteering helps us with that.  So without DHS, it would hurt a lot of people.”

Through the 2012 Annual Report, see how Oklahomans were served by the OKDHS.  After 75 years of service, the agency’s mission continues as it strives to help Oklahoma families lead safer, healthier, and more productive lives.

A video documentary introduces a few of those Oklahomans and tells how OKDHS is serving greater numbers of families and individuals than ever before.  To learn more about these clients, please visit OKDHS’ Annual Report online at http://oucpm.org/okdhsannualreport/

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Oklahoma City resident Roger Picard utilizes OKDHS programs to stay active and healthy in his retirement years.